In this week's teaching, Josh explores Paul's dense theological language in Galatians 2:15-21 in an attempt to get at the heart of his gospel message. Here's a spoiler: it's not about circumcision, it's about trusting in Jesus.
the restoration project. Joshua James. 24 September 2017
Small Group Study Questions
(1) NT Wright summarizes this passage: “Paul’s head-on clash with Peter in Antioch was about Christian identity. His passionate appeal to the Galatians is about their Christian identity.” How do you define the "Christian identity"? Do you struggle to place yourself within this "identity"?
(2) In the past, scholars (and many pastors) have viewed the contrast that Paul highlights between "works of the law" and "faith in Christ" as a contrast between Jewish legalism and our faith in Christ. Some propose that a better reading of Paul's teaching is to identify the works of the law as circumcision (and observing Jewish food laws and Sabbath rules) and faith as a description not of our faith IN Christ, but the faithfulness OF Christ. If that's right, how is this reading different in terms of application? (*Note: this is a tough one!)
(3) In Galatians 2:20, Paul writes, "I have been crucified with
Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me." Richard Hays describes the theological importance of this line of thought: “Paul is describing the experience of having his former life-world terminated and entering a new sphere of reality where he is no longer in charge. This is not merely a matter of having his sins forgiven; instead, it is a matter of being transformed for service.”
Describe this transformation. What sort of service are we being transformed to accomplish?
(4) Paul concludes, "The life I now live in the flesh, I live within the faithfulness of the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." Discuss the love of Jesus and its impact on you as a person. (I'm not looking for a theological answer, but an experiential answer.)
