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Title: Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 18, 2003, 10:22:46 PM Oklahoma Howdy To All Participants,
This is a first attempt for a group Bible Study, and I pray that God will guide us in making it honoring and pleasing to HIM. We will work out the details as we go. This will be a group effort as previously discussed, and some in the group will have more time than others to devote due to work and previous commitments. Regardless, I think this is an opportunity for all of us to learn, interact, and share in HIS WORD. There are numerous companion topics that are a must in understanding Galatians. Could we have volunteers for the following topics: Apostle - What is the definition of this term, and how does in apply in the writing of Galatians? It would also be nice to have a comparison to the term, "Disciple". Paul/Saul - It would really be nice to have a biographical brief of who Paul is, what he represents, what his purpose is, and how his writings generally apply to the Gospel of the Grace of God. Brethren - What is the definition of this term, and how does it apply to Galatians? Galatia - It would also be nice to have a geographical brief of the area of the churches of Galatia in context with the time Paul wrote Galatians. "Gospel of Christ" - What is the definition of this term and how does it apply as used in Galatians 1:7? "Jews' religion" - What is the definition of this term and how does it apply as used in Galatians 1:13? "In Christ" - What is the definition of this term and how does it apply as used in Galatians 1:22? We already know that some will have more time to participate than others. Please feel free to participate as time permits. We will start in Galatians 1 and proceed verse by verse. Participate with whatever time and conviction you may have. I think it would be interesting to use references, contrasts, and comparisons as we go along, but we'll see how things develop. Love In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on November 18, 2003, 11:45:09 PM I'll volunteer for the apostle/disciple one in relation to Galatians! Shall I post what I get here?
Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 19, 2003, 03:04:54 AM I'll volunteer for the apostle/disciple one in relation to Galatians! Shall I post what I get here? Oklahoma Howdy to Brother Allinall, Great, THANKS! Yes, please do post it here. In Christ, Tom Title: Galatians 1:1 Post by: nChrist on November 19, 2003, 03:15:24 AM Oklahoma Howdy to All,
Here's verse 1. If you have ideas about a better format or method, please jump in and discuss it. We can also discuss verses as we go or whatever else anyone may wish to do. ----------------- Galatians 1:1 King James Version Unless Otherwise Noted: Galatians 1:1 Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;) There is a reason why the Apostle Paul starts Galatians in this manner. Paul's Apostleship has been questioned and placed in doubt by men who claim he is simply a student and has no direct knowledge of Christ. Thus, he claims his authority and commission is directly from Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised Jesus Christ from the dead. This false accusation is a portion of the reason many of the people in the churches of Galatia started practicing Jewish customs and the Mosaic Law, a corruption of the pure Gospel of God's Grace that Paul founded the churches in. It is also Biblical for the Apostle Paul to state he was called and chosen by the Risen Jesus Christ and the will of God to serve as an Apostle. See References: 1 Colossians 1:1 Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother, 2 Colossians 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, unto the church of God which is at Corinth, with all the saints which are in all Achaia: Ephesians 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus: There is no doubt that the Apostle Paul received his authority, calling, and ministry directly from Jesus Christ and the Will of God. See References: Act 9:15 But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: Acts 22:14 And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth. Acts 22:15 For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard. Acts 22:16 And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord. Acts 22:17 And it came to pass, that, when I was come again to Jerusalem, even while I prayed in the temple, I was in a trance; Acts 22:18 And saw him saying unto me, Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony concerning me. Acts 22:19 And I said, Lord, they know that I imprisoned and beat in every synagogue them that believed on thee: Acts 22:20 And when the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by, and consenting unto his death, and kept the raiment of them that slew him. Acts 22:21 And he said unto me, Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles. --------------- In Christ, Tom Title: Galatians 1:1 Contrast Post by: nChrist on November 19, 2003, 08:24:05 AM Oklahoma Howdy to All,
I left a very important contrast in verse one for anyone who may wish to address it. Galatians 1:1 Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;) From the perspective and background of the Apostle Paul, there is a deeper contrast between "(not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father,". Would someone volunteer to address this contrast? Love In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: KiwiChristian on November 19, 2003, 02:44:11 PM To me it is saying (and I may be wrong here so correct me if I am) that he is a disciple of Jesus not a disciple of men in general. Men haven't called him but Jesus did.
Title: Re:Galatians 1:1 Contrast Post by: 2nd Timothy on November 19, 2003, 04:12:38 PM Oklahoma Howdy to All, I left a very important contrast in verse one for anyone who may wish to address it. Galatians 1:1 Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;) From the perspective and background of the Apostle Paul, there is a deeper contrast between "(not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father,". Not to get too far ahead of verse one, but, from reading further into the book, it appears that the Galatians have lost sight of their true salvation. They have been led astray by false teachers, to believe that Paul was either not a true Apostle, or that he was less than those Apostles who actually walked and talked with Christ. Thus they dismiss his teachings and bring themselves back under the law by thinking they must be circumcised as Jews to be saved. Saying that, the point that stands out in verse one to me is, "but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father". Jesus was sent by the Father, just as he (Paul) was sent by Jesus himself. "not of men, neither by man" seems to say that he was not authorized or taught by other Apostles, or teaches of himself, but by the one and only saviour Jesus. Thus making him a true Apostle of Jesus, being equal with the other known Apostles. Have I missed the true point? BTW very nice study. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: ollie on November 19, 2003, 07:06:32 PM Verse 1 is a brief statement of what will follow in more detail in chapters 1 and 2. The judaizers at Galatia are trying to discredit Paul's veracity and authority from the Lord because of their position on the law as opposed to the gospel. Therefore he opens his letter with identity and authority and reveals from whom his authority is and who it is not. Paul pleads his case for his own credentials in chapters 1 and 2. After that he goes into what the letter is all about; God's position on faith and that of the law.
In Christian love, Ollie Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 19, 2003, 09:31:08 PM To me it is saying (and I may be wrong here so correct me if I am) that he is a disciple of Jesus not a disciple of men in general. Men haven't called him but Jesus did. Oklahoma Howdy to KiwiChristian, Allinall is presenting a brief about the term "Apostle" and how it applies here in Galatians, so I'd like to wait and let his presentation answer part of this. There is a difference between "Disciple" and "Apostle" that I'm sure will be addressed. You are on the right course. Nobody has volunteered yet to do the contrast I had in mind, so I may do it tomorrow if it isn't presented in other material others are about to post. It pertains to the Apostle Paul and who he was before accepting Jesus. We also don't have a volunteer yet for doing a biographical brief of the Apostle Paul. The contrasts in his life are just as bold and stark as the contrast I see in Galatians 1:1. Some history about the Apostle Paul is necessary. In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 19, 2003, 09:50:49 PM Oklahoma Howdy to 2nd Timothy,
First, I don't think I've had an opportunity to welcome you to Christians Unite. So, WELCOME! I sincerely hope you enjoy the fellowship here. Second, thanks for joining in our study of Galatians. I hope you enjoy it and stick with us. It is a beautiful and important portion of Scripture that I hope we all learn from. I learn something new each time I read it. Your post is right on course with the Apostle Paul's message. I like the way you put that, "the Galatians have lost sight of their true salvation." In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 19, 2003, 10:02:30 PM Oklahoma Howdy to Brother Ollie,
Thanks, I enjoyed your thoughts about Galatians 1:1. The Apostle Paul certainly does start with identity and authority. I'm trying to imagine how he must have felt after all of his efforts in the churches of Galatia. His feelings were not from a position of personal pride, rather from distress in seeing the corruption of the precious GOSPEL he labored in so long. In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Reba on November 19, 2003, 10:44:53 PM Saul
law dead in sin selfrighteous Paul Free Quickened Christ's righteous seems a complete 180 Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 19, 2003, 11:22:11 PM Oklahoma Howdy to Reba,
Thanks, I enjoyed your post, and I'm glad you joined in. This is part of the contrast I was hoping would be posted. Saul held the garments of those who stoned Stephen to death, yet he becomes a mighty servant of God, the Apostle Paul. This and other contrasts are as bold as night and day. The life story of Paul (Saul) is fascinating and serves as an example of how God can change the lost and mold them into vessels of honor for HIS use. In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on November 19, 2003, 11:34:34 PM Quote Not to get too far ahead of verse one, but, from reading further into the book, it appears that the Galatians have lost sight of their true salvation. They have been led astray by false teachers, to believe that Paul was either not a true Apostle, or that he was less than those Apostles who actually walked and talked with Christ. Thus they dismiss his teachings and bring themselves back under the law by thinking they must be circumcised as Jews to be saved. Saying that, the point that stands out in verse one to me is, "but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father". Jesus was sent by the Father, just as he (Paul) was sent by Jesus himself. "not of men, neither by man" seems to say that he was not authorized or taught by other Apostles, or teaches of himself, but by the one and only saviour Jesus. Thus making him a true Apostle of Jesus, being equal with the other known Apostles. Have I missed the true point? I do believe that you have a point, and if I may springboard off of it...Paul is addressing a group of people concerned with keeping the Law in regards to salvation. Paul, in Philippians, attests to his pharisaical credentials, which were quite impressive. As far as they go, he had the best teacher, and was by far a "Pharisee of the Pharisees." It is interesting, as Ollie points out, that he doesn't rely on these credentials, but rather those of his apostleship. He bases everything he is about to say upon his authority as an apostle, then gives credence to that authority in the form of testimony. He even credits himself with having been accepted as an apostle, by apostles, even so far as to rebuke an apostle. The point being, Paul's credentials come from Christ, not from man. His authority was grounded in his apostleship, not in his lawyer-ship. Which leads to the next point... APOSTLE[/u] "Apostle" comes from the greek word apostolos, meaning a delegate, messenger, or one sent forth with orders. There is much debate on the validity of this office today. It is my personal belief, according to the testimony of scripture, that in order to be an apostle, one had to have been taught directly by Christ Himself, and sent by Christ Himself as such a messenger or delegate. With that in mind, no such office is held today. However, without going into great amounts of debate and in sticking with the study at hand, it matters little. Paul's point is that he, having been taught by Christ Himself for 3 years in the Bible Desert Seminary ( :D ), and having been commissioned by Christ Himself as the apostle to the Gentiles, had complete authority to address this error in the Galatian theology. Again, interestingly, he doesn't ride on his pharisaical expertise as the basis of his authority on the matter. Rather, he uses that expertise to refute the error, with the authority given him by God. Hope this suffices as well as adds to the study! Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 20, 2003, 12:23:36 AM Oklahoma Howdy to Allinall,
Brother, I enjoyed your post and definition of "Apostle". Things are coming together now about the purpose of Galatians and the purpose of the Apostle Paul. Definition and color is being added to the picture we will all see as we proceed. THANKS! In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on November 20, 2003, 06:28:04 AM Welcome! I will be out of town for the next couple of days, so if I don't get involved, don't y'all think I've left the study! This is really an encouragement. A real God send. :)
Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Forrest on November 20, 2003, 06:49:44 AM Hello to all of my Brothers, and Sisters here.
I'll be working for the next few nights, but I'll be looking in each morning. It is looks like we are all off to a good start, BEP. if you could just apoint a peace and I'll try to get it ready to post Sat. night or early Sun. Thankyou YBIC Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 20, 2003, 01:22:33 PM Oklahoma Howdy to Allinall, Forrest, and all,
We knew when we started that many worked long hours and had other commitments. Just jump in when you can, comment on the discussion, and maybe post something about the many companion topics that help to understand and enjoy Galatians. I'm hoping to make some posts today and get things rolling. I hope that everyone feels welcome to post additional thoughts about various Scriptures and topics as we go. In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Willowbirch on November 20, 2003, 02:28:23 PM Galatia - It would also be nice to have a geographical brief of the area of the churches of Galatia in context with the time Paul wrote Galatians. Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 20, 2003, 03:30:21 PM Galatia - It would also be nice to have a geographical brief of the area of the churches of Galatia in context with the time Paul wrote Galatians. Tom Oklahoma Howdy to Willowbirch, Thanks, I really appreciate that. I think our study will be more interesting when details like this are covered. It's one thing to simply read the Scriptures and quite another to understand the times, the location, and the people involved. I think you will find that the people of Galatia had a history of being fierce warriors and were feared. My sincere thanks Willowbirch! In Christ, Tom Title: The Apostle Paul - Part One Post by: nChrist on November 20, 2003, 03:37:08 PM Oklahoma Howdy to All,
Please jump in and feel free to add to the discussion and participate in any way that you feel led to. -------------------------- The Apostle Paul - Part One The Apostle Paul was born probably between A.D. 0 to A.D. 5 in Tarsus, Cilicia. His Jewish name was Saul, and his father was of the tribe of Benjamin and a Pharisee. Romans 11:1 I say then, Hath God cast away his people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. Philippians 3:5 Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee; Webster - Pharisee "PHAR'ISEE, n. [Heb. to separate.] One of a sect among the Jews, whose religion consisted in a strict observance of rites and ceremonies and of the traditions of the elders,and whose pretended holiness led them to separate themselves as a sect, considering themselves as more righteous than other Jews." Saul grew up in Jerusalem and became proficient in the speaking and writing of the Greek language. Saul probably left his home of Tarsus as a young boy to study in Jerusalem. One of his masters was Gamaliel, one of the foremost doctors of the law. He was also a tent-maker and used a goat's-hair cloth called cilicium in the making of tents. Saul became an eminent Pharisee and persecutor of those who violated the Mosaic Law. Most specifically, Saul became a persecutor of Christians and followed the believers of Christ to persecute them. Saul was a zealous Pharisee and also a Roman citizen. Acts 22:3 I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye all are this day. Saul was a young man of power and education during a time of great persecution of the church at Jerusalem. Young Saul caused misery for the church and the followers of Christ. Saul entered the homes of believers and sent many men and women to prison. In fact, Saul caused the death of many believers and threatened to slaughter the disciples of Christ. It was Saul who consented to the stoning of Stephen, and he held the garments of those who stoned Stephen to death. Saul would have fit in well with the Pharisees who persecuted Jesus Christ unto death. Acts 7:58 And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul. Acts 8:1 And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles. Acts 8:3 As for Saul, he made havock of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women committed them to prison. Acts 9:1 And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, Acts 22:4 And I persecuted this way unto the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women. ---------------------- In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: ollie on November 20, 2003, 05:22:47 PM Saul Just want to say, this is good, short and to the point.law dead in sin selfrighteous Paul Free Quickened Christ's righteous seems a complete 180 Thanks Reba. Ollie Title: Galatians 1:2-4 Post by: nChrist on November 20, 2003, 06:34:00 PM Galatians 1:2 to Galatians 1:4:
Galatians 1:2 And all the brethren which are with me, unto the churches of Galatia: Brethren is one of the key terms of this Scripture. Brethren is the plural of "brother" and is used literally and figuratively. In this case, the term "Brethren" is used to describe believers in Christ and those who serve to spread the Gospel. It is interesting to note that he uses the term "Brethren" referring to those with him, not those who are receiving the message in the churches of Galatia. Many Bible scholars believe this word usage is intentional on the part of the Apostle Paul in stressing his doubt about the congregations of Galatia. In other words, there is no acknowledgement that the receivers of the message are Brethren. Phi 2:22 But ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel. Phi 4:21 Salute every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren which are with me greet you. ____________________ Galatians 1:3 Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ, Even though Paul is about to deliver harsh correction, he still wishes Grace and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ to those who will receive his correction. G5485 - Grace - Strong's Hebrew and Greek Dictionaries charis khar'-ece From G5463; graciousness (as gratifying), of manner or act (abstract or concrete; literal, figurative or spiritual; especially the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life; including gratitude): - acceptable, benefit, favour, gift, grace (-ious), joy liberality, pleasure, thank (-s, -worthy). G1515 - Peace - Strong's Hebrew and Greek Dictionaries eireŻneŻ i-rah'-nay Probably from a primary verb e??´?? eiroŻ (to join); peace (literally or figuratively); by implication prosperity: - one, peace, quietness, rest, + set at one again. Strong's Hebrew and Greek Dictionaries Paul is wishing the hearers spiritual favour, joy (grace), quietness and rest (peace) from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. ____________________ Galatians 1:4 Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father: This is a continuation from the previous verse and an intentional reminder that Jesus Christ took punishment in their stead for forgiveness of sins. Paul will expound on this later, but it is obvious he will discuss how sins are forgiven by the blood of Jesus and not by the deeds of the law. Matthew 20:28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. Titus 2:14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. Matthew 26:28 For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. John 10:11 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. 1 Corinthians 15:3 For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; Romans 5:6 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. Paul is making the point that the merits of Christ, not our own, deliver us. Christ paid the only acceptable ransom for our deliverance and all is according to the Will of Almighty God. There is no error by Paul in going back to the basics of the Gospel of the Grace of God. The deliverance spoken of is actually a rescue from the bondage of the Law and the condemnation of sin and death. Yes, Jesus did rescue them and free them from bondage, but they are walking back into bondage. ____________________ There are many other contrasts, comparisons, and references available for the beginning of Galatians 1. I realize that I simply scratched the surface. Please feel free to make additional comments and use additional references. Love In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Willowbirch on November 21, 2003, 05:36:45 AM I don't know if this will be useful or not, but here is a map showing where Galatia is in comparison to other cities etc. http://jefferson.village.virginia.edu/~umw8f/Barbarians/Maps/map_galatia.jpg
Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Willowbirch on November 21, 2003, 06:46:57 AM A loose history of Galatia; if I missed something, or got some facts wrong, somebody put it in.
Galatia: a name applied by Greek-speaking peoples to a district of Asia Minor occupied by Celts (Gauls). The Northern portion of this district is fertile, but much of the land is almost barren, uncultivated, providing wild pasturage for flocks. The Celtic Gauls invaded Asia Minor around 278 BC, and amounted to 20,000 people, only half of which were fighting men. These had been invited by Nicomedes I of Bythinia, who needed their aid in fighting his brother. They soon separated into three tribes, and were the scourge of the Western half of Asia Minor for nearly fifty years, allied with one or more warring princes. In 232 BC they were defeated by Attalus I of Pergamum, and forced to settle in the region now known as Galatia; they already occupied part of this district, but now their boundaries were fixed, and their right to this area was formally recognized. According to Gaulish custom, the three Celtic tribes in Galatia were divided into four cantons, each of which was governed by their own chief and a judge under him. The chief's powers were unlimited, except in cases of murder - these were tried by a council of 300 which represented all twelve cantons, the trial being held at a holy place called Drynemeton. After Attalus I died, the Gauls fiercely raided West Asia Minor, until Rome was forced to send troops against them in 189 BC, breaking much of Galatia's military power. The Celts became subject to their neighbors, and Rome freed them. In the settlement with Rome of 64 B.C. Galatia became a client-state of the Roman empire, the old constitution disappeared, and three chiefs (wrongly styled tetrarchs ) were appointed, one for each tribe. But Chief Deiotarus, contemporary of Cicero and Caesar, made himself master of the other two tetrarchs, and at last was recognized by Rome as the King of Galatia. Not all of Galatia was Gaelic; almost two thirds of the district were Phrygians and Cappadocians, native people who came under the lordship of the Gauls. These natives were required to give part of their produce to the conquering Celtic tribes, and were often sold as slaves. The Gauls lived in fortified villages rather than common towns; the chiefs dwelled in castles, surrounded by their fighting tribesmen, engaging in warfare and barbarism. But over time their lust for war lessened, and they began to mix with the natives, adopting the local religion. At the time of Saint Paul's missionary journeys, Galatia had not yet become Hellenized, although Greek was widely spoken. Not until the 2nd century AD did Hellenic ways and thought appear; only in the 4th and 5th centuries did Hellenism in its Christian form conquer this region, and this was caused mostly by the fact that Galatia became a highway of imperial communication when the center of government was transferred from Nicomedia to Constantinople. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 21, 2003, 09:27:05 AM I don't know if this will be useful or not, but here is a map showing where Galatia is in comparison to other cities etc. http://jefferson.village.virginia.edu/~umw8f/Barbarians/Maps/map_galatia.jpg Oklahoma Howdy to Willowbirch, Thanks, very nice. I have some maps, but I honestly didn't remember to look and see if I have anything that applies. Thanks for the reminder. Many of the names on the map are clearly refered to in many portions of Scripture, including Galatians. Thanks! In Christ, Tom Title: Brief History of Galatia Post by: nChrist on November 21, 2003, 09:36:27 AM Oklahoma Howdy to Willowbirch,
Thanks, I really enjoyed that. I think that adding the details like this make Biblical history fascinating. I enjoy studying history. In the case of Galatia, it makes it easier to understand and appreciate the work of the Apostle Paul. THANKS! - Very Nice. In Christ, Tom Title: The Apostle Paul - Part Two Post by: nChrist on November 21, 2003, 12:18:18 PM Oklahoma Howdy to All,
Please do feel welcome to join in, post, and participate. When we took the poll to do this, I had no intention of this being my study, rather our study, a group study. ____________________ The Apostle Paul - Part Two There are several facts of interest that are not mentioned in part one. Saul's father had pure Jewish blood, yet he was a Roman citizen. It is unknown exactly how Saul's father obtained this distinction and privilege. This distinction could have been purchased, earned by service to the state, or in several other ways. Regardless, Saul's Roman Citizenship served him well in many difficult situations and Saul's birth would have been called "freeborn". "Paul" was probably the name given Saul for use in the Gentile world. Saul's home of Tarsus was the capital of Cilicia and was known for commerce, wealth, and excellent education. Saul's early childhood was spent in Tarsus, and it was decided that Saul should become a rabbi and serve as a Pharisee. This was a mixture of lawyer, teacher, and minister of the straightest and most strict sect of the Jews. From his youth and up, Saul could speak of himself as, "touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless". Philippians 3:6 Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless. Saul was probably about 13 years old when he was sent to the great Jewish school of sacred learning at Jerusalem as a student of the law. Saul became a student of the famous rabbi Gamaliel and was diligent in his studies for many years. Saul completed his studies and left Jerusalem, possibly back to Tarsus to serve in a synagogue. Saul returned to Jerusalem shortly after the crucifixion of Jesus. Saul learned about the rise of a new sect called "Nazarenes" and the spread of Christianity. The synagogues hotly disputed Jesus Christ being the Messiah and this lead to persecution of Christians. Saul was probably a member of the great Sanhedrin at this time and was an active leader in the persecution of Christians. Saul, in fact, sought the extermination of Christianity. The stoning of Stephen was an example of Saul's efforts. Saul's efforts of extermination failed because the Christians were scattered and preaching the Word everywhere they went. Saul learned that fugitives took refuge in Damascus, so he obtained letters from the chief priest to pursue them to Damascus, about a six day journey of 130 miles. Acts 9:3 And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: Acts 9:4 And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? Acts 9:5 And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. Acts 9:6 And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. It is important to note that Saul used the term "Lord" probably as one would use "Sir" and didn't understand he was in the presence of the risen Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ until later. Saul arose and was blind. Acts 9:8 And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus. Acts 9:9 And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink. Acts 9:10 And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord. Acts 9:11 And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and enquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, Acts 9:12 And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight. Acts 9:13 Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: Acts 9:14 And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name. Acts 9:15 But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: Acts 9:16 For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake. Acts 9:17 And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. Acts 9:18 And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized. Acts 9:19 And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. Acts 9:20 And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God. Saul, the old man, is gone and born again as Paul, a servant of Christ. ____________________ Love In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Willowbirch on November 21, 2003, 10:45:50 PM I hope this is not off-topic...a small but interesting thing I've noted recently is, that Paul did not consume nourishment until after he had been baptized. Here I waited 7 years to do it; he was so earnest about it, he didn't even take breakfast until baptism had taken place.
Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Reba on November 21, 2003, 11:00:38 PM Interesting :)
Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 21, 2003, 11:54:40 PM I hope this is not off-topic...a small but interesting thing I've noted recently is, that Paul did not consume nourishment until after he had been baptized. Here I waited 7 years to do it; he was so earnest about it, he didn't even take breakfast until baptism had taken place. Oklahoma Howdy to Willowbirch, I think this is completely on topic and interesting in understanding the Apostle Paul. I think that one must understand the Apostle Paul before his writing can be fully appreciated. I think this could be compared to understanding and enjoying the New Testament without the background of the Old Testament. I'm working on a part three about the Apostle Paul, but I may post more verses from Galatians first. Willowbirch and all, please feel welcome to post Scriptures and anything else that's on your heart or mind you feel led to do. I think this type of discussion and participation is what makes a Bible study so interesting. In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: ollie on November 22, 2003, 12:53:44 AM "In other words, there is no acknowledgement that the receivers of the message are Brethren" In reference to verse 2.
"And all the brethren which are with me, unto the churches of Galatia:" Isn't it acknowledged in : Galatians 1:11, 3:15, 4:12, 28, 31, 5:11, 13, 6:1, and 18. Also the use of "unto the churches" and in verse 3 "our Lord Jesus Christ" infer that Paul is acknowledging that they all have something in common, the Lord and that they are in His church thus signifying a recognition of like people, "brethren". Paul also acknowledges false brethren in Galatia in 2:4 In Christian love, Ollie Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 22, 2003, 07:15:04 AM Oklahoma Howdy to Brother Ollie,
Those comments were directed specifically to that verse. If you look at the openings of other writings from Paul, most are quite different. I'm sure that the Apostle Paul realizes there are saved people at Galatia. Go ahead and post verse 11 if you wish. The general thought from the poll is we would go verse by verse, chapter by chapter, but feel free to do whatever you would like. Things should start going faster in the next day or so. We have several more joining, and I have my computer problems fixed again (I hope). In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: ollie on November 22, 2003, 10:04:58 AM Oklahoma Howdy to Brother Ollie, You are correct there is no mention of "brethren" in verse 2, but there is an inference in that his letter is to the church which is mentioned in verse 2.Those comments were directed specifically to that verse. If you look at the openings of other writings from Paul, most are quite different. I'm sure that the Apostle Paul realizes there are saved people at Galatia. Go ahead and post verse 11 if you wish. The general thought from the poll is we would go verse by verse, chapter by chapter, but feel free to do whatever you would like. Things should start going faster in the next day or so. We have several more joining, and I have my computer problems fixed again (I hope). In Christ, Tom It is sometimes difficult to study a verse alone and seperate without studying to and fro on the related issue of the verse to realize the truer meaning of that given verse. If I comment on verse 11, I will wait until it is posted. In Christ's love, Ollie Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Reba on November 22, 2003, 12:02:44 PM Galatians 1: 1-2
Paul is stating where his authorty is from. God Christ brethern verse 4-5 a lead into the topic of the letter verses 6 the slam >:( Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: 2nd Timothy on November 22, 2003, 05:01:05 PM An interesting word used is churche(s). Were all the churches in Galatia turning to a different gospel? Or perhaps there were a few members in various churches who remained faithful. The tone of Pauls usual greeting does seem different in this letter. Either way, Paul appears hopeful that they were not beyond correction.
I have considered, if I were Paul in this situation, how would I address this congregation of churches in my opening regards to them. How would you address a known brother, who had started to falter? Not sure if any of this is relevant, but it is some food for thought. Title: Galatians Bible Study Post by: Ambassador4Christ on November 22, 2003, 06:27:45 PM This study is GRRRREAT, your all doing a good job. I will be joining in soon. Here is some info some of you might enjoy.
Paul and Jesus Compared Below is a list of similarities between the Apostle Paul in Acts and Jesus in the Gospel accounts of the last week before He was crucified: Both were told by a crowd of Jews to 'take him away'; Christ - John 19:15; Luke 23:18 Paul - Acts 21:36; 22:22 Both were falsely accused by the Jews; Christ - Mark 14:57,58,64 (of blasphemy) Paul - Acts 21:28 (of profaning the temple) Both appeared before the Sanhedrin; Christ - Luke 22:63-71 Paul - Acts 23:1-10 Both appeared before the Roman Governor who ruled Palestine at that time; Christ - John 18:28-38 (Pilate) Paul - Acts 25:6-27 (Festus) Both were declared innocent of death by the Governors; Christ - John 18:38 Paul - Acts 25:25 Both could have been released; Christ - John 19:10-12 Paul - Acts 26:32 The public ministry of both ended when they were seized by the Jews; Christ - John 18:12 Paul - Acts 21:27-30 Reference used: The Fall of Israel by Robert C. Brock Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: ollie on November 22, 2003, 08:21:12 PM An interesting word used is churche(s). Were all the churches in Galatia turning to a different gospel? Or perhaps there were a few members in various churches who remained faithful. The tone of Pauls usual greeting does seem different in this letter. Either way, Paul appears hopeful that they were not beyond correction. Does the following verse help to answer your question?I have considered, if I were Paul in this situation, how would I address this congregation of churches in my opening regards to them. How would you address a known brother, who had started to falter? Not sure if any of this is relevant, but it is some food for thought. 2 Thessalonians 3:14. And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed. 15. Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 22, 2003, 11:12:48 PM Oklahoma Howdy to All,
I'm trying to list a few references, comparisons, and contrasts. Some of the comparisons involve the writing style of the Apostle Paul and probably his focus if everything is placed in context with his life and ministry. ____________________ Galatians 1:5 To whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. There are many like doxologies in the writings of Paul. See Ephesians 3:21. In looking at Paul's writing style and phrases, some scholars believe that Paul intends all glory to God and none to man. Some extend this inference to specfically exclude Moses and all other men. Eph 3:21 Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. _____________________ Galatians 1:6 I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Many Greek orators used the term "marvel" to indicate shock and sorrow. In the writings of the Apostles, "called" is always the work of God indicating Divine persuasion. So, "him that called" was God. "Into the grace of Christ" is literally accepting the Love of Christ which is a Gift of God. "Another gospel" refers to being persuaded of men to draw away into a false doctrine. ____________________ Galatians 1:7 Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. False teachers who are troublers and troublesome are representing a different teaching as the Gospel. The teaching is false and corrupts the gospel of Christ. The corruption at Galatia involved trusting in men and seeking self-righteousness through deeds of the Law. See Luke 18:9. Luke 18:9 And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: ____________________ Galatians 1:8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. Literally, they have already been taught the true doctrine of the Gospel of the Grace of God, and there is no other, regardless of who the teacher is. Let him who teaches any conflicting doctrine be accursed, cut off from Christ and God. See 2 Corinthians 11:13-14 2 Corinthians 11:13 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. 2 Corinthians 11:14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. G331 - accursed - Strong's Hebrew and Greek Dictionaries ἀνάθεμα anathema an-ath'-em-ah From G394; a (religious) ban or (concretely) excommunicated (thing or person): - accursed, anathema, curse, X great. ____________________ Galatians 1:9 As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed. The Apostle Paul knows that he made a strong and harsh statement. He deliberately repeats and stands by that harsh statement. Paul and other Brethren have warned the people of Galatia before about false teachers. See comparison 2 Corinthians 13:1-2. 2Co 13:1 This is the third time I am coming to you. In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established. 2Co 13:2 I told you before, and foretell you, as if I were present, the second time; and being absent now I write to them which heretofore have sinned, and to all other, that, if I come again, I will not spare: _____________________ Galatians 1:10 For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. This is a justification for the harsh language in the previous two verses. "For do I now persuade men, or God?" Persuade is used in the manner "seek to win over". The word usage and sentence structure here is somewhat unusual but it is typical for the Apostle Paul to make comparisons and contrasts. See the following comparisons and references. He seeks to persuade men and please only God. Paul makes a dramatic contrast between pleasing man and pleasing God. Part of Paul's unique life was spent in seeking self-righteousness, pleasing men, and living the doctrines of men as a Jew. However, Paul became a chosen vessel for the Gospel of God's Grace and was commissioned by Christ Himself to proclaim it. Paul was no longer interested in pleasing men, regardless of cost or danger, rather to please only God and give God all the Glory. It is plain to see that the Apostle Paul takes the contrast between man and God much further. Paul, of all people, clearly understands why the Pharisees were known as a generation of vipers. They rejected and persecuted THE CHRIST unto death in the vanity of their own self-righteousness. Paul's experience as a Pharisee made him appreciate and love the Gospel of God's Grace "much more". 2Co 5:11 Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences. Acts 5:29 Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men. 1 Thessalonians 2:4 But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts. 2 Corinthians 12:19 Again, think ye that we excuse ourselves unto you? we speak before God in Christ: but we do all things, dearly beloved, for your edifying. ____________________ Love In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Forrest on November 23, 2003, 03:08:37 AM Galatians 1:6 I am surprised and astonished that you are so quickly turning renegade and deserting Him Who invited and called you by the grace (unmerited favor) of Christ (the Messiah) [and that you are transferring your allegiance] to a different [even an opposition] gospel.
7Not that there is [or could be] any other [genuine Gospel], but there are [obviously] some who are troubling and disturbing and bewildering you [with a different kind of teaching which they offer as a gospel] and want to pervert and distort the Gospel of Christ (the Messiah) [into something which it absolutely is not]. 8But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to and different from that which we preached to you, let him be accursed (anathema, devoted to destruction, doomed to eternal punishment)! Amplified I find the Amplified Bible to put it bolder more as I would see Paul with him knowing the people that they come from a warrior society the words renegade and deserting would hold a meaning that would get their att., and let them know that this was very importent, not to be dismissed lighty. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Willowbirch on November 23, 2003, 08:02:38 AM This study is GRRRREAT, your all doing a good job. I will be joining in soon. Here is some info some of you might enjoy. Thank you, A4C!Paul and Jesus Compared Below is a list of similarities between the Apostle Paul in Acts and Jesus in the Gospel accounts of the last week before He was crucified: Both were told by a crowd of Jews to 'take him away'; Christ - John 19:15; Luke 23:18 Paul - Acts 21:36; 22:22 Both were falsely accused by the Jews; Christ - Mark 14:57,58,64 (of blasphemy) Paul - Acts 21:28 (of profaning the temple) Both appeared before the Sanhedrin; Christ - Luke 22:63-71 Paul - Acts 23:1-10 Both appeared before the Roman Governor who ruled Palestine at that time; Christ - John 18:28-38 (Pilate) Paul - Acts 25:6-27 (Festus) Both were declared innocent of death by the Governors; Christ - John 18:38 Paul - Acts 25:25 Both could have been released; Christ - John 19:10-12 Paul - Acts 26:32 The public ministry of both ended when they were seized by the Jews; Christ - John 18:12 Paul - Acts 21:27-30 Reference used: The Fall of Israel by Robert C. Brock Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 23, 2003, 08:16:46 AM Oklahoma Howdy to All,
Good points. Good examples. Good discussion. Good participation. This is what I was hoping for in the study of Galatians. I would simply pray for more of the same. The collection of thoughts and comparisons make it an interesting study. Brother Ambassador4Christ, I enjoyed the comparison between Jesus and Paul. It is hard to imagine how difficult and dangerous their work was. Brother Forrest, I enjoyed the comparison of verse 6 and 7 with the Amplified Bible and your thoughts. Brother Ollie, I enjoy your posts and thoughts. Thanks! Sister Reba, you make it short, sweet, and directly to the point. Thanks for joining in. 2nd Timothy, you are a valued new member of Christians United. I'm really glad you joined in this study with us. Brother Allinall, thanks for volunteering to do a brief on the term "Apostle". I enjoyed it. This is only one of the companion topics that must be understood to enjoy Galatians. Sister Willowbirch, thanks for volunteering to do a brief on the geographical area of Galatia during the life of Paul. That was very interesting, and I enjoyed it. I hope I haven't forgotten anyone. Others are also joining in as we go. We've had a very pleasant exchange of thoughts about this precious portion of Scripture. Love In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Reba on November 23, 2003, 10:33:13 AM Gal 1:6-7
6 I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: 7 Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. KJV What is the gospel Paul preaches? Do Pauls words group the names of the gospel into one gospel? ( a few examples below) (Sorta like a rose by anyother name is still a rose) Matt 4:23 gospel of the kingdom, KJV Matt 4:23 gospel of the kingdom, KJV Rom 1:1 the gospel of God KJV Mark 1:1 gospel of Jesus Christ, KJV 1 Cor 9:18 gospel of Christ KJV Eph 1:13 gospel of your salvation: KJV Eph 6:15 gospel of peace; KJV Luke 16:16 kingdom of God KJV Do we see the same perversion, of the gospel, today? Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 23, 2003, 01:02:15 PM What is the gospel Paul preaches? Oklahoma Howdy to Reba, Thanks, good discussion. Yes there are various terms applied to the Gospel, just as there is more than one name for Jesus. It might be difficult to describe in a few words what is and what is not the gospel, but I'll give it a try. God's Grace - Faith Alone - In Christ Alone The Apostle Paul and others go into considerable detail about why certain doctrines are not part of the Gospel. Examples: Man can't save himself by obeying the Law. Apart from Jesus, man has no righteousness. Jesus is the ONLY WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE. Salvation is a GIFT from GOD in HIS LOVE and GRACE, something that NO man could ever earn or deserve. All men sin and come short of the GLORY of GOD. The only PERFECTION that is acceptable to GOD is in JESUS CHRIST. The only righteousness a man has is imputed to him or her THROUGH THE BLOOD OF JESUS. They have no righteousness apart from JESUS. Generally, these and other tests can be applied to any doctrine to determine if it is true or false. In answer to your question: YES, there are many false doctrines and false teachers today. In general, those that deny Jesus being the Son of God and being the ONLY WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE could be considered the worst. Generally, those that teach trust in man, self, and self-righteousness as being the WAY are close to the worst. Specifically, any doctrine that excludes Jesus Christ as the foundation, the core, THE ONLY WAY, THE TRUTH, THE LIFE, THE CHRIST, THE SON OF GOD, AND THE LORD AND SAVIOUR is a false doctrine given by a false teacher who is accursed. I don't think many Christians would have any problem with this statement. Love In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Forrest on November 23, 2003, 02:28:01 PM What is the gospel Paul preaches? Oklahoma Howdy to Reba, Thanks, good discussion. Yes there are various terms applied to the Gospel, just as there is more than one name for Jesus. It might be difficult to describe in a few words what is and what is not the gospel, but I'll give it a try. God's Grace - Faith Alone - In Christ Alone The Apostle Paul and others go into considerable detail about why certain doctrines are not part of the Gospel. Examples: Man can't save himself by obeying the Law. Apart from Jesus, man has no righteousness. Jesus is the ONLY WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE. Salvation is a GIFT from GOD in HIS LOVE and GRACE, something that NO man could ever earn or deserve. All men sin and come short of the GLORY of GOD. The only PERFECTION that is acceptable to GOD is in JESUS CHRIST. The only righteousness a man has is imputed to him or her THROUGH THE BLOOD OF JESUS. They have no righteousness apart from JESUS. Generally, these and other tests can be applied to any doctrine to determine if it is true or false. In answer to your question: YES, there are many false doctrines and false teachers today. In general, those that deny Jesus being the Son of God and being the ONLY WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE could be considered the worst. Generally, those that teach trust in man, self, and self-righteousness as being the WAY are close to the worst. Specifically, any doctrine that excludes Jesus Christ as the foundation, the core, THE ONLY WAY, THE TRUTH, THE LIFE, THE CHRIST, THE SON OF GOD, AND THE LORD AND SAVIOUR is a false doctrine given by a false teacher who is accursed. I don't think many Christians would have any problem with this statement. Love In Christ, Tom As a former cult member I can, and do atest to the fact that there are many false teachers out there, Paul in his second leter to Timothy warns that many will turn away seeking teachers that will tell them what they want to hear. 2 Timothy 4. 3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. 5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Willowbirch on November 23, 2003, 03:14:13 PM Thank you, Tom and Forrest!
Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: ollie on November 23, 2003, 05:00:38 PM The Gospel Paul preached as related to the Church at Corinth:
1 Corinthians 15:1. Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; 2. By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. 3. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; 4. And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: 5. And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve: 6. After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep. 7. After that, he was seen of James; then of all the apostles. 8. And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time. 9. For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. 10. But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me. 11. Therefore whether it were I or they, so we preach, and so ye believed. 12. Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? 13. But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: 14. And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. 15. Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. 16. For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: 17. And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. 18. Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. 19. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. 20. But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. 21. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. 22. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. 23. But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming. 24. Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. 25. For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. 26. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. 27 .......... Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Reba on November 23, 2003, 05:17:30 PM Are we agreed that the scriptures teach only ONE gospel?
Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Forrest on November 23, 2003, 06:53:12 PM Are we agreed that the scriptures teach only ONE gospel? I beleive so. Gospel = Jesus Christ born acording to scripture, lived acording to scripture, died acording to scripture, and raised from death again acording to scripture. No adding anything else no +law, or + work. Just Faith in the completed work of Jesus Christ done on the Cross. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 23, 2003, 09:15:52 PM Oklahoma Howdy to Forrest,
Quote As a former cult member I can, and do atest to the fact that there are many false teachers out there, Paul in his second leter to Timothy warns that many will turn away seeking teachers that will tell them what they want to hear. 2 Timothy 4. 3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. 5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. AMEN!, thanks Brother. In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 23, 2003, 09:55:34 PM Are we agreed that the scriptures teach only ONE gospel? Oklahoma Howdy to Reba, The Gospel of the Grace of God revealed to the Apostle Paul is the only GOOD NEWS about how men of today can be released from the bondage of sin and death and be born again as a child of God (Saved). In Christ, Tom Title: Galatians Bible Study Post by: Brother Love on November 24, 2003, 05:58:38 AM Are we agreed that the scriptures teach only ONE gospel? I beleive so. Gospel = Jesus Christ born acording to scripture, lived acording to scripture, died acording to scripture, and raised from death again acording to scripture. No adding anything else no +law, or + work. Just Faith in the completed work of Jesus Christ done on the Cross. All is True, but do you find this Gospel in Matthew, Mark, Luke or John? Brother Love :) Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on November 24, 2003, 06:02:23 AM Quote Are we agreed that the scriptures teach only ONE gospel? I agree! The scripture has always given but one way to God - Christ. From the Old Testament, to the New Testament it has always been Christ and His work that saves. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on November 24, 2003, 06:06:35 AM Here's another interesting thought, to me at least. :) Paul was more than likely considered slightly odd, even among the apostles. He, by his own testimony, labored more than the other apostles. He refused to take on support for his ministry, save but to encourage the giving of believers (Philippians) in the form of a gift, and worked for his living as a tent maker. He longed, even pursued suffering! He gave absolutely everything he had, both physical, financial, and spiritual to his service of Christ, and yet considered himself "chief of all sinners." I see Paul as an excellent example of Christlikeness. He was completely committed, yet human and fallible. Just a thought...
Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on November 24, 2003, 06:26:50 AM I don't recall reading anything about this topic, so I snagged it. Hopefully I'm not retracing other people's work!
Quote "Jews' religion" - What is the definition of this term and how does it apply as used in Galatians 1:13? Judaism is the practice of the Law as set forth originally by Moses at God's bequest, but perverted by the Pharisees and the Saducees of the day. It may behoove us to understand what is meant by "Pharisee" and "Saducee" as well. PHARISEE[/b] The Pharisees were the lawyers as such. They had by far the better understanding of the Law than the average Jew. It is important to note, that not all Pharisees were in it for their own good. Nicodemus, for example, was a learned Pharisee that came to Christ! But for the most part, the Pharisaiacal sect was corrupt. They insituted a system of righteousness based upon the Law that suited them, and based their adherence to such systems a reflection of their own righteousness. For example, no one was to work on the Sabbath. It was determined that one could walk one mile without it being considered work on the Sabbath. Then it was amended that one could walk one mile between possessions. The day prior would find these Pharisees walking the path they intended to walk on the Sabbath and leaving a sandal, or some other possession at the mile marker so as to not be in violation of the Law. They used this thinking regularly in their practice of the Law. The problem was that the average Jew had these people as their teachers! They to felt that they had to live up to a certain righteous piety exhibited by the Pharisees to be considered worthy. To boot, such practices set the Pharisees above the others, financially, and socially. Further more, the Pharisees ran the synagogues. For a Jew to accept Jesus meant being cast out of the synagogue! Do we see why Jesus called them vipers? SADUCEES[/b] The Saducees were the priests. This ought to make us scratch our heads as they were considered the ones who rejected most of what scripture teaches (i.e. the resurrection)! But, such they were nonetheless. The Saducees were more corrupt in my opinion than the Pharisees. The Pharisees held to their own system of righteousness. The Saducees didn't much care. For example, in temple sacrifice, the Jew would bring their sacrifice to the temple to be inspected by the priests. The priests had a deal going where they would reject the sacrifice brought by the Jew, and point them to the sellers in the courtyard. The Jew would then have to put the money down for another sacrifice (from which the priests received a cut), and lose the sacrifice they brought. The sellers would then turn around and sell the "unacceptable" sacrifice to the next unfortunate Jew. The problem is, they all knew this was happening. But what could the average Jew do? These were the people in charge! What's more, the sacrifices offered were often not acceptable to begin with. ____________________________________ To be continued... Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on November 24, 2003, 06:38:46 AM CONTINUED...
As these two sects made up the Judaism of the day, the practice was diverted from it's original intent to the religion Jesus witnessed while on earth. It is interesting to see how Jesus dealt with each of these groups, and Judaism as a whole. For the Pharisees, He taught that it was not just the act that was unrighteous, but the heart behind the act. If a man were to look upon a woman lustfully, but did not physically commit adultery, they were innocent of breaking the Law in the mind of the Pharisee. Jesus said that lusting was equivalent with doing. He spoke on hate and murder, and on the prayer lives of these people. He poked holes in the very fabric of the Judaism of that day, and pointed them all back to the very point of the Law - Himself. For the Saducee, He not once, but twice, drove out the moneychangers. He pointed the people back to the purpose of His house. He called wrong what the priests had called right! Needless to say, He made many enemies this way. He also made many converts - but never easily. To trust Christ was equivelant to rejecting the Judaism practiced in that day. The Pharisees would certainly cast you out of the synagogue and the Saducees would not accept your sacrificial worship. That's why Jesus told the people to count the cost of following Him. As we understand the basis/perversion of that form of Judaism, we can glean an understanding of Paul's vehement rejection of this other gospel. It was a perversion! The Law always pointed to a coming Savior, until the Pharisees made it the saving factor. Paul set the record straight, and was not about to have it made crooked again! Title: Galatians Bible Study Post by: Brother Love on November 24, 2003, 06:48:00 AM Are we agreed that the scriptures teach only ONE gospel? Oklahoma Howdy to Reba, The Gospel of the Grace of God revealed to the Apostle Paul is the only GOOD NEWS about how men of today can be released from the bondage of sin and death and be born again as a child of God (Saved). In Christ, Tom AMEN! Brother Tom, The Gospel of the Grace of God, is not in Matthew, Mark, Luke or John. Brother Love :) Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Willowbirch on November 24, 2003, 07:14:13 AM Thanks for your explanation of Judaism, Allinall!
Brother Love, maybe I missed something, but I'm confused about this: The Gospel of the Grace of God, is not in Matthew, Mark, Luke or John. Could you go into more detail on this, for my sake? :) The "Four Gospels", in my opinion, concern the fulfillment of the "Gospel (good news)". Eyewitness accounts of Christ's earthly life, death and ressurrection. They do not go into as much "detailed Gospel" as Paul's teaching does, though. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: John the Baptist on November 24, 2003, 07:52:10 AM Here's another interesting thought, to me at least. :) Paul was more than likely considered slightly odd, even among the apostles. He, by his own testimony, labored more than the other apostles. He refused to take on support for his ministry, save but to encourage the giving of believers (Philippians) in the form of a gift, and worked for his living as a tent maker. He longed, even pursued suffering! He gave absolutely everything he had, both physical, financial, and spiritual to his service of Christ, and yet considered himself "chief of all sinners." I see Paul as an excellent example of Christlikeness. He was completely committed, yet human and fallible. Just a thought... ***** John here: There is one Gospel! I just posted this up on another site. Perhaps it will pass inspection here? --- Scofield wrote: Great post DRAKE! justjake, how does Christ saving us lead us to sin? That's you logic... ******** John asks some questions: Was not Luciffer created PERFECT? And he was in Eden the garden of God! 'Thou [hast been] in Eden the garden of God' ... 'Thou WAST PERFECT in thy ways from the day that thou wast created' ... 'IWILL DESTROY thee, O covering cherub' ... 'I WILL BRING thee to ASHES'! (Try Eze. 28:13-19) Did Christ lead this saved one to sin?? No more than the 'No condemnation' ones in Rom. 8:1. These must HAVE A STARTING POINT, of PERFECTION, and then a MATURING process to develope a CHARACTER safe to save for ALL of their eternity. (see Nah. 1:9) 'If' they USE the Eternal provisions at their asking! Phil. 4:13 & 2 Cor. 12:9. That is the EVERLASTING GOSPEL TRUTH!!! (all else is to be eternal ashes!) Then, most 'youngins' in the true fold have come to realize that Adam & Eve were also created, but not just good, but, VERY GOOD! (PERFECT) IN CHRIST! Sinless! Yet, still it seems that they were not dead mentally to think, they were able to make FREE choices! MATURE. Case in point is that God does not change, He is the same YESTERDAY, today and forever! He created a tree in the MIDST of the Garden of Eden... WITH INSTRUCTIONS!!! WHY DID HE DO THIS??? [THINK!!!} There, & only there, it seemed, was where the serpent could TEMPT them. Who was the serpent? The Word tells us in Rev. 12:1-12 if one 'believes' in the Master's WORDS? And in His Words of Matt. 4:4 & 2 Tim. 3:16's TRUE Hermaneutics, instead of the 'arm of flesh'? By the way, does anyone 'here' know what the Covering Cherub of Eze. 28 was? And what was (IS) under the two of these in heaven? And what the Ark of God has inside of it in heaven? And what MERCY SEAT COVERED THE ARK??? Does anyone [BELIEVE IN CHRIST] enough to BELIEVE IN ALL OF HIS WORD??? "IN CHRIST".. Rom. 8:1???? How could the angels in heaven have a REBELLION with NO EVERLASTING COVENANT CONDITIONS? Heb. 13:20! Or how could Adam & Eve sin without an Everlasting Covenant? These are Once Saved Alway Saved? Read on for Rev.'s last few verses!! Then: How could God HAVE 'A MERCY SEAT' WITHOUT THE ETERNAL EVERLASTING GOSPEL??? Rev. 14:6!!! That is what THE HEAVENLY MERCY SEAT IS ALL ABOUT!! GOD SAYS: "MY [WAY] IS IN THE SANCTUARY"!!!! Psalms 77:13. Yes JustJake: You seem to have a very good insight of the Master's INTIRE Book. But remember friends. So did Israel of old! And as the question was asked? "How does Christ saving us, lead us to sin?" JustJake: The one posting the question seems to 'dense' (Heb. 5) to know the answer when told, and now it seems that he is a moderator? But as for the question? He could read about Cain & his OFFERING to SEE what it was that MADE him ACCEPTED, huh!! And then UN/ACCEPTED!! And so went ALL of organized Israel of old who DID NOT FOLLOW CHRIST OUT!! Matt. 25 ALL that [followed Christ] (IN CHRIST!) were SAVED BY FAITH! Heb. 11:13. There has N-E-V-E-R been any other way to be SAVED OR TO REMAIN SAVED EXCEPT BY CHRIST! That IS THE EVERLASTING GOSPEL! He say: "WITHOUT ME YE CAN DO [NOTHING]." John 15:1-7 & the last part of verse *5! THINK ETERNITY! Both backward & forward. Hebs. world's' in the plural included. Then in Closing, look at the Masters closing WORDS to us? He saved some & RECORDED their Names in the Book of Life, SAVED at that time! And HE TELLS US that if any ADD WORDS TO HIS "PERFECT" BOOK, OR IF ANY TAKE AWAY ANY WORDS FROM HIS PERFECT BOOK, THEY TOO WILL BE IN REBELLION AND [WILL] HAVE THEIR NAME REMOVED FROM THE BOOK OF LIFE!! (Rev. 22:18-19 or see Exodus 32:33) "I KNOW THAT, WHATSOEVER GOD DOETH; IT SHALL BE FOREVER: [NOTHING CAN BE PUT UNTO IT, NOR ANYTHING TAKEN FROM IT], THAT MEN SHOULD FEAR BEFORE HIM." Eccl. 3:14 ---John _________________ Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 24, 2003, 09:26:38 AM Here's another interesting thought, to me at least. :) Paul was more than likely considered slightly odd, even among the apostles. He, by his own testimony, labored more than the other apostles. He refused to take on support for his ministry, save but to encourage the giving of believers (Philippians) in the form of a gift, and worked for his living as a tent maker. He longed, even pursued suffering! He gave absolutely everything he had, both physical, financial, and spiritual to his service of Christ, and yet considered himself "chief of all sinners." I see Paul as an excellent example of Christlikeness. He was completely committed, yet human and fallible. Just a thought... Oklahoma Howdy to Allinall, Thanks Brother! I wanted to do a part three on the Apostle Paul, but I now find that it may be a part three, four, and five. I find the life and the example of the Apostle Paul to be fascinating. The contrasts in his life were like night and day. Saul was the very type who persecuted THE CHRIST unto death and he knew it. Yet, he became a chosen vessel for the Gospel of God's Grace and personally experienced the Grace and Love of God. The Holy Bible makes it exceptionally clear that Paul never forgot his persecution of Christians and how God loved him anyway. This may partially explain the three years Paul spent in Arabia after his conversion. It is not explained what Paul did with these three years. In looking at the life of Paul, many Bible scholars believe that Paul probably spent those three years in devout study, prayer, and seeking God's will for the rest of his life. Paul's life becomes Christ centered with everything else of little or no significance. Thanks Brother! I enjoyed your thoughts about the Apostle Paul. In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 24, 2003, 09:40:36 AM As we understand the basis/perversion of that form of Judaism, we can glean an understanding of Paul's vehement rejection of this other gospel. It was a perversion! The Law always pointed to a coming Savior, until the Pharisees made it the saving factor. Paul set the record straight, and was not about to have it made crooked again! Oklahoma Howdy to Brother Allinall, AMEN! Again, I really enjoyed your post, and thanks for adopting some of these subjects that really add detail, color, and truth to Paul's love and almost all-consuming dedication to the Gospel of God's Grace. It also helps to understand many of the statements Paul made in his writing. It's simply another way for us to enjoy, appreciate, and love the GOOD NEWS of the GOSPEL OF GOD'S GRACE. Love in Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Reba on November 24, 2003, 10:28:10 AM Would it be posible?? To state ones views simply and move on.
I would like this 'thread bible study' to continue , not getting hijacked. I believe there is one gospel that is how i read scripture. Poster A may believe two Poster B maybe more. Title: Galatians Bible Study Post by: Ambassador4Christ on November 24, 2003, 12:50:58 PM Are we agreed that the scriptures teach only ONE gospel? Oklahoma Howdy to Reba, The Gospel of the Grace of God revealed to the Apostle Paul is the only GOOD NEWS about how men of today can be released from the bondage of sin and death and be born again as a child of God (Saved). In Christ, Tom AMEN! Brother Tom, The Gospel of the Grace of God, is not in Matthew, Mark, Luke or John. Brother Love :) Amen Brother 1 Corinthians 15:1. Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; 2. By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. 3. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; Only Paul preached Gospel (Good News) of the Grace of God. Title: Galatians 1:11-12 Post by: nChrist on November 24, 2003, 08:20:28 PM Oklahoma Howdy to All,
First, I must tell Ambassador4Christ that I selected my references of 1 Corinthians 15:1-3 before reading his post. Brother, I looked at your post and wondered what the chances were in me selecting the same references for Galatians 1:11-12. I might add that I don't believe in chance. That was the Scripture reference I felt led to use. ____________________ Galatians 1:11 But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. Galatians 1:12 For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ. The Galatians had run a course with false teachers. Paul's tone changes from harsh to one of affection, and for the first time in the letter addresses them as brethren. This is normally in the start of the letter, not after a harsh rebuke. Many scholars believe Paul uses the term "brethren" as hoping well of them, hoping they were born of God, and hoping they were heirs of God's Grace. Paul attests and affirms (certify) that the Gospel he taught them was revealed directly to him from Jesus Christ, not taught to him by man as some had accused. In fact, those Galatians who strayed did so because of the contrary teachings of men. Paul rightfully makes a dramatic comparison between the doctrines of men and the revelations of Christ. See 1 Corinthians 15:1-3 and Ephesians 3:3-8. 1 Corinthians 15:1 Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; 1 Corinthians 15:2 By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:3 For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; Ephesians 3:3 How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, Ephesians 3:4 Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) Ephesians 3:5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; Ephesians 3:6 That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel: Ephesians 3:7 Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power. Ephesians 3:8 Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; ____________________ I have considerable material almost ready to post. Please forgive the delay. I'm having some problems with my old computer. However, the duct tape and baling wire have it going again. Love In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Reba on November 24, 2003, 08:34:02 PM I would like understand this.
I am seeing the Gospel of Christ being divied in these posts. If Matt Mark Luke John, and Christ himself did not preach the gospel of Jesus Christ what did they preach? Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 24, 2003, 08:39:05 PM Amen Brother 1 Corinthians 15:1. Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; 2. By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. 3. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; Only Paul preached Gospel (Good News) of the Grace of God. Oklahoma Howdy to Ambassador4Christ, Brother, this is a beautiful portion of Scripture I used in the post I just made. I promise that I didn't try to steal your thunder. :) It is important for everyone to realize that the Apostle Paul also preached the Gospel revealed to him directly from Christ to the other Apostles. Not only did the other Apostles accept Paul as an Apostle, but they also accepted his teaching and correction. There was power in the message from Paul that the other Apostles recognized as a Divine revelation from Christ HIMSELF. Otherwise, why would the multiple and first Apostles accept Paul and his teaching? The answer lies in the fact that they knew Paul's teaching was from God. Love In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on November 24, 2003, 09:43:20 PM Reba,
I think some of the difficulty you are having may be in the word gospel. The word, as you know, means "good news." There can be many good news..es...ok, so that's not a word but you get my drift. :) B.L. and A4C aren't proposing another salvific gospel. Rather, they are differentiating between the gospels presented. Christ, afterall, preached another gospel, the gospel of the kingdom. Paul preached the gospel of grace. Now, are these totally different pieces of good news, or are they different approaches to the same good news? I hold to the latter, differing approaches. Christ was preaching to the Jews, as the Messiah, the King of Israel after the line of David. His was a message of the kingdom with Himself as the King. This is completely in line with the gospel message as a whole, only it points more to the Kingly Messiah, than the grace God gave in giving that Messiah. He was pointing to Himself as Messiah. Paul pointed to the grace of God as displayed in the salvation offered by that Messiah. Two differing aspects of the same, God given and God ordained message. Does this help? Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on November 24, 2003, 09:50:59 PM Quote The Holy Bible makes it exceptionally clear that Paul never forgot his persecution of Christians and how God loved him anyway. This may partially explain the three years Paul spent in Arabia after his conversion. It is not explained what Paul did with these three years. Thank you Brother Tom! As for the 3 years Paul spent in Arabia, I do believe there is an explanation. I'll have to get back with you on the supporting scriptures though. As for what he was doing in that 3 year period? Gaining his apostleship! Remember, to be an apostle, one was given a message by Christ Himself to give to others. Christ called Paul to be an apostle to the Gentiles. Interesting part here, but wouldn't Paul have been more qualified to be an apostle to the Jews? God uses us where we are often most useless for His glory. Anywho, Paul also testified that he received teaching from Jesus Himself "after the time" or some such wording. I tend to believe that he was in the Desert Theological Seminary for those 3 years getting his M. Div! I could be wrong though. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 24, 2003, 11:13:34 PM Quote The Holy Bible makes it exceptionally clear that Paul never forgot his persecution of Christians and how God loved him anyway. This may partially explain the three years Paul spent in Arabia after his conversion. It is not explained what Paul did with these three years. Thank you Brother Tom! As for the 3 years Paul spent in Arabia, I do believe there is an explanation. I'll have to get back with you on the supporting scriptures though. As for what he was doing in that 3 year period? Gaining his apostleship! Remember, to be an apostle, one was given a message by Christ Himself to give to others. Christ called Paul to be an apostle to the Gentiles. Interesting part here, but wouldn't Paul have been more qualified to be an apostle to the Jews? God uses us where we are often most useless for His glory. Anywho, Paul also testified that he received teaching from Jesus Himself "after the time" or some such wording. I tend to believe that he was in the Desert Theological Seminary for those 3 years getting his M. Div! I could be wrong though. Oklahoma Howdy to Brother Allinall, :D The "Desert Theological Seminary" is most likely what Paul did with those three years. Maybe you missed it, but my conclusions were the same right after the quote you have above. (See below) I love the way you put that, "Desert Theological Seminary". I'm still working on part three about the Apostle Paul. I found numerous sources from various Bible scholars that indicate this is exactly what Paul did with those 3 years. However, I haven't found a source that gives chapter and verse about the details of Paul's "Desert Theological Seminary". :D I'll have to share this with my uncle who lives, breathes, and preaches the writings of the Apostle Paul. Quote This may partially explain the three years Paul spent in Arabia after his conversion. It is not explained what Paul did with these three years. In looking at the life of Paul, many Bible scholars believe that Paul probably spent those three years in devout study, prayer, and seeking God's will for the rest of his life. Paul's life becomes Christ centered with everything else of little or no significance. Brother, if you do find more specific information about this 3 years, please share it with me. All of the material I've studied so far indicates Paul simply disappeared into Arabia without many details. Paul is noted for historical details, but maybe this time was too personal to record, a time simply with God. In terms of details, the following Scripture is all I know of, and they are fairly vague. "I conferred not with flesh and blood:" indicates the conclusion of solitude with God in preparation for his ministry. Galatians 1:16 To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood: Galatians 1:17 Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus. Galatians 1:18 Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days. Love In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Willowbirch on November 25, 2003, 07:14:25 AM Was not Luciffer created PERFECT? And he was in Eden the garden of God! 'Thou [hast been] in Eden the garden of God' ... 'Thou WAST PERFECT in thy ways from the day that thou wast created' ... 'IWILL DESTROY thee, O covering cherub' ... 'I WILL BRING thee to ASHES'! (Try Eze. 28:13-19) That's true, John! Quote Did Christ lead this saved one to sin?? No more than the 'No condemnation' ones in Rom. 8:1. These must HAVE A STARTING POINT, of PERFECTION, and then a MATURING process to develope a CHARACTER safe to save for ALL of their eternity. (see Nah. 1:9) 'If' they USE the Eternal provisions at their asking! Phil. 4:13 & 2 Cor. 12:9. That is the EVERLASTING GOSPEL TRUTH!!! (all else is to be eternal ashes!) Quote Then, most 'youngins' in the true fold have come to realize that Adam & Eve were also created, but not just good, but, VERY GOOD! (PERFECT) IN CHRIST! Sinless! Yet, still it seems that they were not dead mentally to think, they were able to make FREE choices! MATURE. Case in point is that God does not change, He is the same YESTERDAY, today and forever! He created a tree in the MIDST of the Garden of Eden... WITH INSTRUCTIONS!!! WHY DID HE DO THIS??? [THINK!!!} Quote There, & only there, it seemed, was where the serpent could TEMPT them. Who was the serpent? The Word tells us in Rev. 12:1-12 if one 'believes' in the Master's WORDS? And in His Words of Matt. 4:4 & 2 Tim. 3:16's TRUE Hermaneutics, instead of the 'arm of flesh'? By the way, does anyone 'here' know what the Covering Cherub of Eze. 28 was? And what was (IS) under the two of these in heaven? And what the Ark of God has inside of it in heaven? And what MERCY SEAT COVERED THE ARK??? Does anyone [BELIEVE IN CHRIST] enough to BELIEVE IN ALL OF HIS WORD??? "IN CHRIST".. Rom. 8:1???? Quote How could the angels in heaven have a REBELLION with NO EVERLASTING COVENANT CONDITIONS? Heb. 13:20! Or how could Adam & Eve sin without an Everlasting Covenant? These are Once Saved Alway Saved? Read on for Rev.'s last few verses!! Then: How could God HAVE 'A MERCY SEAT' WITHOUT THE ETERNAL EVERLASTING GOSPEL??? Rev. 14:6!!! That is what THE HEAVENLY MERCY SEAT IS ALL ABOUT!! GOD SAYS: "MY [WAY] IS IN THE SANCTUARY"!!!! Psalms 77:13. ALL that [followed Christ] (IN CHRIST!) were SAVED BY FAITH! Heb. 11:13. There has N-E-V-E-R been any other way to be SAVED OR TO REMAIN SAVED EXCEPT BY CHRIST! That IS THE EVERLASTING GOSPEL! He say: "WITHOUT ME YE CAN DO [NOTHING]." John 15:1-7 & the last part of verse *5! THINK ETERNITY! Both backward & forward. Hebs. world's' in the plural included. Rev. 3:14 Christ is the "Beginning of the creation of God". Beginning, in this text, does not refer to something that was made, but something that was the source and origin of everything else. Quote Then in Closing, look at the Masters closing WORDS to us? He saved some & RECORDED their Names in the Book of Life, SAVED at that time! And HE TELLS US that if any ADD WORDS TO HIS "PERFECT" BOOK, OR IF ANY TAKE AWAY ANY WORDS FROM HIS PERFECT BOOK, THEY TOO WILL BE IN REBELLION AND [WILL] HAVE THEIR NAME REMOVED FROM THE BOOK OF LIFE!! (Rev. 22:18-19 or see Exodus 32:33) "I KNOW THAT, WHATSOEVER GOD DOETH; IT SHALL BE FOREVER: [NOTHING CAN BE PUT UNTO IT, NOR ANYTHING TAKEN FROM IT], THAT MEN SHOULD FEAR BEFORE HIM." Eccl. 3:14 ---John _________________ Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Willowbirch on November 25, 2003, 07:18:10 AM Reba, Thanks, Allinall! I was a little confused, as well, lol!I think some of the difficulty you are having may be in the word gospel. The word, as you know, means "good news." There can be many good news..es...ok, so that's not a word but you get my drift. :) B.L. and A4C aren't proposing another salvific gospel. Rather, they are differentiating between the gospels presented. Christ, afterall, preached another gospel, the gospel of the kingdom. Paul preached the gospel of grace. Now, are these totally different pieces of good news, or are they different approaches to the same good news? I hold to the latter, differing approaches. Christ was preaching to the Jews, as the Messiah, the King of Israel after the line of David. His was a message of the kingdom with Himself as the King. This is completely in line with the gospel message as a whole, only it points more to the Kingly Messiah, than the grace God gave in giving that Messiah. He was pointing to Himself as Messiah. Paul pointed to the grace of God as displayed in the salvation offered by that Messiah. Two differing aspects of the same, God given and God ordained message. Does this help? Title: Languages Post by: nChrist on November 25, 2003, 08:15:16 AM Oklahoma Howdy to All,
I must apologize for some posts containing Strong's references. I didn't realize some of the Greek, Hebrew, etc. came out butchered and contained "?" for characters missing in the fonts. I don't know if I have a solution for this. My Bible study material shows all of the characters perfectly, but some of them are obviously lost and replaced with "?s" in the preparation of the post. So, please excuse this. I doubt I will spend the time in searching for fonts to fix this problem, at least not now. In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: John the Baptist on November 25, 2003, 08:18:22 AM Was not Luciffer created PERFECT? And he was in Eden the garden of God! 'Thou [hast been] in Eden the garden of God' ... 'Thou WAST PERFECT in thy ways from the day that thou wast created' ... 'IWILL DESTROY thee, O covering cherub' ... 'I WILL BRING thee to ASHES'! (Try Eze. 28:13-19) That's true, John! Quote Did Christ lead this saved one to sin?? No more than the 'No condemnation' ones in Rom. 8:1. These must HAVE A STARTING POINT, of PERFECTION, and then a MATURING process to develope a CHARACTER safe to save for ALL of their eternity. (see Nah. 1:9) 'If' they USE the Eternal provisions at their asking! Phil. 4:13 & 2 Cor. 12:9. That is the EVERLASTING GOSPEL TRUTH!!! (all else is to be eternal ashes!) Quote Then, most 'youngins' in the true fold have come to realize that Adam & Eve were also created, but not just good, but, VERY GOOD! (PERFECT) IN CHRIST! Sinless! Yet, still it seems that they were not dead mentally to think, they were able to make FREE choices! MATURE. Case in point is that God does not change, He is the same YESTERDAY, today and forever! He created a tree in the MIDST of the Garden of Eden... WITH INSTRUCTIONS!!! WHY DID HE DO THIS??? [THINK!!!} Quote There, & only there, it seemed, was where the serpent could TEMPT them. Who was the serpent? The Word tells us in Rev. 12:1-12 if one 'believes' in the Master's WORDS? And in His Words of Matt. 4:4 & 2 Tim. 3:16's TRUE Hermaneutics, instead of the 'arm of flesh'? By the way, does anyone 'here' know what the Covering Cherub of Eze. 28 was? And what was (IS) under the two of these in heaven? And what the Ark of God has inside of it in heaven? And what MERCY SEAT COVERED THE ARK??? Does anyone [BELIEVE IN CHRIST] enough to BELIEVE IN ALL OF HIS WORD??? "IN CHRIST".. Rom. 8:1???? Quote How could the angels in heaven have a REBELLION with NO EVERLASTING COVENANT CONDITIONS? Heb. 13:20! Or how could Adam & Eve sin without an Everlasting Covenant? These are Once Saved Alway Saved? Read on for Rev.'s last few verses!! Then: How could God HAVE 'A MERCY SEAT' WITHOUT THE ETERNAL EVERLASTING GOSPEL??? Rev. 14:6!!! That is what THE HEAVENLY MERCY SEAT IS ALL ABOUT!! GOD SAYS: "MY [WAY] IS IN THE SANCTUARY"!!!! Psalms 77:13. ALL that [followed Christ] (IN CHRIST!) were SAVED BY FAITH! Heb. 11:13. There has N-E-V-E-R been any other way to be SAVED OR TO REMAIN SAVED EXCEPT BY CHRIST! That IS THE EVERLASTING GOSPEL! He say: "WITHOUT ME YE CAN DO [NOTHING]." John 15:1-7 & the last part of verse *5! THINK ETERNITY! Both backward & forward. Hebs. world's' in the plural included. Rev. 3:14 Christ is the "Beginning of the creation of God". Beginning, in this text, does not refer to something that was made, but something that was the source and origin of everything else. Quote Then in Closing, look at the Masters closing WORDS to us? He saved some & RECORDED their Names in the Book of Life, SAVED at that time! And HE TELLS US that if any ADD WORDS TO HIS "PERFECT" BOOK, OR IF ANY TAKE AWAY ANY WORDS FROM HIS PERFECT BOOK, THEY TOO WILL BE IN REBELLION AND [WILL] HAVE THEIR NAME REMOVED FROM THE BOOK OF LIFE!! (Rev. 22:18-19 or see Exodus 32:33) "I KNOW THAT, WHATSOEVER GOD DOETH; IT SHALL BE FOREVER: [NOTHING CAN BE PUT UNTO IT, NOR ANYTHING TAKEN FROM IT], THAT MEN SHOULD FEAR BEFORE HIM." Eccl. 3:14 ---John _________________ Me again: Hi, this Gal. study is a good one so far. For me at least it seems that there is a suggestion of another Gospel? Perhaps clarification is needed by that?? Anyway, here is something I posted up earlier on another forum that goes along with the ETERNAL CHRIST AND HIS ETERNAL GOSPEL. (With NO starting point or finishing point) ----------------------------------------------------- MoJo wrote: NB - (worlds) It sounds like your saying we're in the "matrix"? I don't understand your allusions. Could you please spell them out. **** Allusions? Col. 1:14-17 "Who is the image of the invisable God" ... For by Him were ALL THINGS CREATED, that are IN HEAVEN, ... VISABLE AND INVISABLE, wheather they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: ALL THINGS WERE CREATED BY HIM AND FOR HIM: AND HE IS BEFORE [ALL THINGS], *AND BY HIM ALL THINGS CONSIST". (Off topic! but read on for His established MATURE order verse 23 starts with an IF.) Now: Other Worlds as in Heb. 1:2's last part of verse. Then a re/peat in Heb. 11:3 which is called.. 'WE believe through FAITH'. Even in Heb. 6:1-6 we see that these ones KNEW AND BELIEVED ALL OF THIS. "TASTED THE GOOD WORD OF GOD......" You can read John 1:2. And *Titus 1:2?? This is the Everlasting Gospel Rev. 14:6 tells us about! Are you still with me? If so, the MERCY SEAT in the heavenly Throne room represents the LOVE OF GOD in forknowledge. See Rom. 4:17's last part of verse. Last one for now. Try **Psalms 33:6-9 This King James rendering say it all! We are but a 'speck' that can be only measured by the death of Christ & Love of the GodHead to save us. Yet, there were much more at stake than just us involved. That too is why Christ became God/man! He PROVED that Adam's fall was not necessary! _________________ "I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGHT CHRIST WHICH STRENGTHENETH ME" Phil. 4:13 "MY GRACE IS SUFFICIENT FOR THEE, FOR MY STRENGTH IS MADE PERFECT IN WEAKNESS" 2 Cor. 12:9 Title: Galatians 1:13 Post by: nChrist on November 25, 2003, 08:19:15 AM Galatians 1:13 For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it:
G391 - conversation - Strong's Hebrew and Greek Dictionaries anastropheŻ - an-as-trof-ay' - From G390; behavior: - conversation. Acts 22:3 I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye all are this day. Acts 22:4 And I persecuted this way unto the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women. Acts 22:5 As also the high priest doth bear me witness, and all the estate of the elders: from whom also I received letters unto the brethren, and went to Damascus, to bring them which were there bound unto Jerusalem, for to be punished. Acts 26:9 I verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth. Acts 26:10 Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them. Acts 26:11 And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted them even unto strange cities. In times past, the behavior of Saul of Tarsus as a Pharisee gave him an infamous reputation as being a brutal and cruel oppressor of followers of Jesus Christ. Paul admits this and knows that most know how he laid waste to the things and people of Christ. ____________________ In Christ, Tom Title: Galatians 1:14 Post by: nChrist on November 25, 2003, 08:23:01 AM Galatians 1:14 And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers.
G2454 - Jews' religion - Strong's Hebrew and Greek Dictionaries Ioudaismos - ee-oo-dah-is-mos' From G2450; “judaism”, that is, the Jewish faith and usages: - Jews’ religion. Philippians 3:4 Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more: Philippians 3:5 Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee; Philippians 3:6 Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless. Paul/Saul is stating that he advanced to a high position and status in the Jewish faith and that he outstripped his contemporaries in zeal of the law. Saul belonged to an extreme party of the Pharisees who called themselves "zealots of the law" or "zealots of God". It is important to note that many of the Pharisaic traditions were grafted into the law. This background will encourage Paul to make many comparisons in the future between the traditions of men versus the teaching of Christ and the Gospel. In fact, Paul develops a very low opinion of the traditions of men, much like Christ and Christ's thoughts about the Pharisees. ____________________ In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Petro on November 25, 2003, 09:46:20 AM Greetings all,
Concerning; allinall's reply #67 and others comments of Pauls 3 years in Arabia, I hope this isn't getting to far ahead of the study. Gal 1 17 Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus. 18 Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days. I have often thought about Paul's approx. three years, in Arabia. But before he went to Arabia it is clear he preached Jesus imediately upon his conversion at Damascus, since at; Acts 9, we read; 18 And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized. 19 And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. 20 And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God. 21 But all that heard him were amazed, and said; Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests? 22 But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ. 23 And after that many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel to kill him: 24 But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him. 25 Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket. It was for this reason he left, for Arabia. There is much speculation as to what Saul did in Arabia, the scriptures do not tell us. He went there by the Word of God, notice his own testimony concerning the vision, he had on the road to Damascus; Acts 22 6 And it came to pass, that, as I made my journey, and was come nigh unto Damascus about noon, suddenly there shone from heaven a great light round about me. 7 And I fell unto the ground, and heard a voice saying unto me, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? 8 And I answered, Who art thou, Lord? And he said unto me, I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom thou persecutest. 9 And they that were with me saw indeed the light, and were afraid; but they heard not the voice of him that spake to me. 10 And I said, What shall I do, Lord? And the Lord said unto me, Arise, and go into Damascus; and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed for thee to do. And at Acts 26, when recalling the vision to Agrippa he said; 15 And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest. 16 But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee; 17 Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, 18 To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me. 19 Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision: Being obedient to the heanvenly vision, no doubt included that which the Hoily Spirit ministered to him, whi9ch is not written. Arabia, which for the most part was mainly a desert place, may have been what was needful in Pauls life at this point and time, he had come to faith in Him, whom he persecuted. And this three years of communion with the Lord thru the Spirit, could very well have been his time, to gather his thoughts and meditate on the great events that had taken place in his life, no doubt the Lords prophecy concerning the Spirit became real to the apsotle; Jhn 14 26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. Did Paul need to be taught?? Did he recall words spoken by Jesus?? You bet, he was there at the river Jordan when Jesus was made manifest to all Israel, on the day he was baptized by John. Paul needed this time to prepare for that which Jesus said to him; I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee; Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me. Saul had to spend time, for the ministery, unravelling his misconceptions and all of the human teachings injected into that which he had learned about God, while at the feet of Gamaliel. He didn't have the NT to help him, he only had the OT writings, to reconcile to what he believed. Like Saul if God has chosen us to minister to the peoples of the World concerning Himself and His Redeemer, it is essential that we collect our thought, meditate on the things which the Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual. (1 Cor 2:13) Growing in Grace and the knowledge of Jesus. That also, might share the unseqarchable riches of Christ. God Bless, Petro Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 25, 2003, 10:42:53 AM Oklahoma Howdy to Brother Petro,
Thanks for joining in Brother! That was an excellent and interesting post. I find the life and details about the Apostle Paul to be fascinating. I have a ton of notes and references I'm studying now about the Apostle Paul, his life, and the Gospel of the Grace of God he loved so much. It's interesting to imagine the crisis caused by the first revelation of Christ. We know that he was blinded temporarily, but what happened to the proud and brutal Pharisee? Yes, there was an immediate change, but Christ wasn't through with the molding and transformation of Saul. Can you imagine what Saul of Tarsus thought about his Jewish education in the very best schools of the time? What about the tremendous guilt Saul must have felt about being an enemy of THE CHRIST and a persecutor of Christ's followers? Could it be said that Saul's world exploded into pieces? Yes, it was a crises, and Saul would have to start over. Thanks again Brother Petro and welcome to the study. In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Reba on November 25, 2003, 05:25:44 PM Often i have 'known' bible statments all my life only to find them not as i thought or as i have believed. This point does not matter to me and i bet there is some other form of history to substantiate the story.
Gal 1 17 Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus. 18 Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days. It reads? he went to arabia and returned to damascus THEN after 3 years went to Jerusalem So what am i missing? Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: 2nd Timothy on November 25, 2003, 06:03:25 PM Very interesting indeed! Hopefully I'm not steering away from Galatians, but I think injecting Pauls teaching from another book here might bring something to the current study.
Paul speaking to religious people in Phillipians about trust in human merit. Phil 3:3-8 3 For it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the Spirit of God, who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh-- 4 though I myself have reasons for such confidence. If anyone else thinks he has reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: He has MORE reason to be justified by works of the flesh! 5 circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; 6 as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for legalistic righteousness, faultless. -Circumcised according to Jewish Law, -he is part of God's chosen people of Israel, -part of tribe of Benjamin (an honored tribe that was Loyal to God in the OT), -Hebrew of Hebrews! - Trained in the Hebrew Language and customs, likely having memorized the entire Hebrew scriptures -A Pharisee - tieing in with Hebrew of Hewbrews, a MASTER of the law by Hebrew standards! - Had ZEAL, shown by persecuting the church...very well known for his persecution of the church. -(I like this one) - As for LEGALISTIC RIGHTEOUSNESS, FAULTLESS!!! Outwardly he was righteous by every standard of the LAW! (another version uses the term, BLAMELESS! (kept every law) One thing every false religion of today has in common is the assumption one can improve his relationship with God by his works, or own merit. continuing 7 But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. He wasted his time doing all of the above which he believed made him close to God. Calling it LOSS for the sake of Christ. 8 What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ The rubbish used here is translated as meaning Litterally Manuer or Dung, compared to the greatness of knowing Christ Jesus the Lord. 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ-- the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith. Paul seems to have every reason to Boast about his human effort in bringing himself closer to God, however he considers all that to be DUNG. Verse 9 shows not by righteousness of his own by following traditions for the LAW, but through - the righteousness that comes from faith! Praise God! I feel like preaching!...lol Grace and Peace! Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: ollie on November 25, 2003, 07:26:00 PM Galatians 1:6. I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel:
7. Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. "so soon removed..........unto another gospel" "which is not another;" What is Paul saying here? That it is not another Gospel, but a perverted one? That they are preaching Christ but perverting it by wanting to adhere to the law along with the gospel? Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: John the Baptist on November 25, 2003, 07:55:16 PM Galatians 1:6. I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: 7. Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. "which is not another;" ****** Yes, true! After the 3 yrs. of self examination Paul went to Jesusalem in Acts 15:5. What was it all about? "... saying, That it was needful to (1) circumcise them , and (2) [TO COMMAND THEM TO KEEP THE COMMANDMENTS OF MOSES]." ---John PS: Acts 25:8 tells us that Paul was a keeper of one of the two laws! Of course the MOTIVE was one of LOVE for Christ! ****** What is Paul saying here? That it is not another Gospel, but a perverted one? That they are preaching Christ but perverting it by wanting to adhere to the law along with the gospel? Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: 2nd Timothy on November 25, 2003, 08:28:21 PM Galatians 1:6. I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: 7. Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. "which is not another;" ****** Yes, true! After the 3 yrs. of self examination Paul went to Jesusalem in Acts 15:5. What was it all about? "... saying, That it was needful to (1) circumcise them , and (2) [TO COMMAND THEM TO KEEP THE COMMANDMENTS OF MOSES]." ---John PS: Acts 25:8 tells us that Paul was a keeper of one of the two laws! Of course the MOTIVE was one of LOVE for Christ! ****** What is Paul saying here? That it is not another Gospel, but a perverted one? That they are preaching Christ but perverting it by wanting to adhere to the law along with the gospel? Acts 15:1-12 1 Some men came down from Judea to Antioch and were teaching the brothers: "Unless you are circumcised, according to the custom taught by Moses, you cannot be saved." 2 This brought Paul and Barnabas into sharp dispute and debate with them. So Paul and Barnabas were appointed, along with some other believers, to go up to Jerusalem to see the apostles and elders about this question. 3 The church sent them on their way, and as they traveled through Phoenicia and Samaria, they told how the Gentiles had been converted. This news made all the brothers very glad. 4 When they came to Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church and the apostles and elders, to whom they reported everything God had done through them. 5 Then some of the believers who belonged to the party of the Pharisees stood up and said, "The Gentiles must be circumcised and required to obey the law of Moses." 6 The apostles and elders met to consider this question. 7 After much discussion, Peter got up and addressed them: "Brothers, you know that some time ago God made a choice among you that the Gentiles might hear from my lips the message of the gospel and believe. 8 God, who knows the heart, showed that he accepted them by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as he did to us. 9 He made no distinction between us and them, for he purified their hearts by faith. 10 Now then, why do you try to test God by putting on the necks of the disciples a yoke that neither we nor our fathers have been able to bear? 11 No! We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are." 12 The whole assembly became silent as they listened to Barnabas and Paul telling about the miraculous signs and wonders God had done among the Gentiles through them. This doctrine hounds the early church. The Judaisers are trying to bring the new church under the doctrine of law, through works of the flesh. By doing this will you be truely Jewish and saved! While the true Gospel is that only God can make us righteous through HIS divine work done at the cross, which is pointed out later in Galtians... Gal 2:19-21 19 For through the law I died to the law so that I might live for God. 20 I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. 21 I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!" I love this study! Grace and Peace! Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Reba on November 25, 2003, 08:52:52 PM Thanks Tim
Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: 2nd Timothy on November 25, 2003, 09:27:38 PM You're welcome Reba. :) Asking questions such as these makes the study more interesting to me.
Grace and Love! Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: John the Baptist on November 25, 2003, 09:57:27 PM You're welcome Reba. :) Asking questions such as these makes the study more interesting to me. Grace and Love! ****** Christ stated that 'ye must be Born Again'. Do you think that there will ever be any saved on either side of the cross that were not Born Again? Or that the 'Everlasting' Gospel of Rev. 14:6 was not Eternal? In other Words, this Gospel that Paul 'preaches' is something new? Is that what is being suggested????? That the Eternal Godhead does change, is not the SAME yesterday, today and [forever]??? ---John :'( Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Reba on November 25, 2003, 10:00:11 PM I say the GRACE Noah found in the eyes of the LORD is same GRACE we have today
Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: John the Baptist on November 25, 2003, 10:22:47 PM I say the GRACE Noah found in the eyes of the LORD is same GRACE we have today ********* Hi, I agree with that. What my question is, Christ said that ye MUST be born again to Nicodemus. Notice the exact Words: "Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, EXCEPT A MAN BE BORN AGAIN, HE CANNOT SEE THE KINGDOM OF GOD." John 3:3 I suspect that the True Gospel that Paul taught, did not disagree with Christ? And Acts 5:32 states that the Holy Spirit is given to the ones who OBEY HIM. The date was AD 33. Paul came on the sceen in AD 34. It seems that any one to be Born Again would be REQUIRED to be have THE HOLY SPIRIT & OBEY HIM. So, can any be saved contrary to being Born Again was the question? Can one be saved by 'Grace' alone, without the Holy Spirit, or with out being Bor Again? Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 25, 2003, 11:10:53 PM ****** Christ stated that 'ye must be Born Again'. Do you think that there will ever be any saved on either side of the cross that were not Born Again? Or that the 'Everlasting' Gospel of Rev. 14:6 was not Eternal? In other Words, this Gospel that Paul 'preaches' is something new? Is that what is being suggested????? That the Eternal Godhead does change, is not the SAME yesterday, today and [forever]??? ---John :'( John The Baptist, I think that I clearly see where this is going. Try searching for the answers to the two following questions: What was the purpose of the cross, the crucifixion of Jesus Christ? What changed after the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on the cross? These are fairly easy questions. Once you answer the questions, you have an answer to your own question. If you conclude there was no purpose for the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, we'll stop our study and try to help you. If you conclude there was no change after the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on the cross, again, we'll stop our study and try to help you. If you think there was no purpose for the cross and no change at the cross, you would do well as a Pharisee. Let us know what you think about those two questions. Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 26, 2003, 12:54:07 AM Often i have 'known' bible statments all my life only to find them not as i thought or as i have believed. This point does not matter to me and i bet there is some other form of history to substantiate the story. Gal 1 17 Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus. 18 Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days. It reads? he went to arabia and returned to damascus THEN after 3 years went to Jerusalem So what am i missing? Oklahoma Howdy to Reba, I don't know. It depends on what you are looking for. Maybe this will help. The 3 years is after his conversion, not after his return to Damascus. We know from the Scriptures that Paul preached at Damascus before and after his time in Arabia. Arabia lay south and east of Palestine, extending to the vicinity of Damascus. It's only a speculation which portion of Arabia Paul went to. It could have been close to Damascus, but the Scriptures don't make this clear. Some Bible scholars speculate it might have been Sinai in Arabia. I've seen several other speculations. The most basic point here is that 3 years of Paul's life are almost covered with a veil. Scripture does state that Paul was strengthened in Christ during this time and it was just after his conversion. The speculation regards Paul's transformation from a Pharisee and enemy of Christ to a mighty Apostle and minister of the Gospel of God's Grace. To say this time was spent in devout study, meditation, and the revelation of Christ would be most reasonable. Are you saying that Paul did something else with this 3 years other than being strengthened in Christ? If so, I don't think you will find a record of it. I rechecked a large number of references and all conclude what has been posted. If you have other information or ideas, please post them. In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 26, 2003, 01:18:27 AM And this three years of communion with the Lord thru the Spirit, could very well have been his time, to gather his thoughts and meditate on the great events that had taken place in his life, no doubt the Lords prophecy concerning the Spirit became real to the apsotle; Saul had to spend time, for the ministery, unravelling his misconceptions and all of the human teachings injected into that which he had learned about God, while at the feet of Gamaliel. He didn't have the NT to help him, he only had the OT writings, to reconcile to what he believed. Oklahoma Howdy to Petro, I've studied this area again because some had questions. It truly isn't specified what Paul did in these three veiled years, but the speculation that he did what you and others have suggested is more than reasonable. I read your post again and took particular interest in your statement about Paul not having the New Testament to help him. I thought about the many years of extremely strict training Paul/Saul had in his advancement to Pharisee. I now see the writing of Paul and know beyond any doubt that it was inspired by God. In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 26, 2003, 01:36:17 AM Paul seems to have every reason to Boast about his human effort in bringing himself closer to God, however he considers all that to be DUNG. Verse 9 shows not by righteousness of his own by following traditions for the LAW, but through - the righteousness that comes from faith! Praise God! I feel like preaching!...lol Grace and Peace! Oklahoma Howdy to 2nd Timothy, :D AMEN! Preach it Brother! Saul of Tarsus the Pharisee to The Apostle Paul - Minister of the Gospel of God's Grace WOW! - What a dramatic comparison between Law and Grace! LAW = my works, self, self-righteousness, I I I I to infinity, dependent on my sacrifice, my vanity and glory, my boasting GRACE = Christ's works, Christ, Christ's righteousness, Christ Christ Christ Christ to infinity, dependent on the sacrifice of Christ, God's GLORY, the LORD OF LORDS AND KING OF KINGS In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Reba on November 26, 2003, 02:08:38 AM Quote Are you saying that Paul did something else with this 3 years other than being strengthened in Christ? If so, I don't think you will find a record of it. I rechecked a large number of references and all conclude what has been posted. If you have other information or ideas, please post them. In Christ, Tom Tom, Sheesh i am not that deep. My post is just a simple confession of not really seeing what i have read and relying on the words of others. As i stated it doesnt matter to me where Paul was What is importiant is what he was doing with the 3 years. My guess is he was being schooled, by the Holy Spirit, You used the words "strengthened in Christ" He had major unlearning to do. I have just accepted the story he was in the desert and read the scripture quickly not untell today did i see the difference. I am thankfull for this computer the forums etc. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: ollie on November 26, 2003, 05:25:29 AM My question was not on grace versus the law or if saved by grace or works of the law, but whether Paul was saying the Galatians still preached Christ though with the perverted teaching of adhering to the law?
Paul refers to it as another gospel and then seems to change the thought by saying it isn't another gospel but a perverted gospel still containing Christ, however. Is this Paul's thoughts here? Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 26, 2003, 06:10:06 AM Tom, Sheesh i am not that deep. My post is just a simple confession of not really seeing what i have read and relying on the words of others. As i stated it doesnt matter to me where Paul was What is importiant is what he was doing with the 3 years. My guess is he was being schooled, by the Holy Spirit, You used the words "strengthened in Christ" He had major unlearning to do. I have just accepted the story he was in the desert and read the scripture quickly not untell today did i see the difference. I am thankfull for this computer the forums etc. Oklahoma Howdy to Reba, I'm positive Paul was schooled by the Holy Spirit during this time frame and probably many other time frames, and he was strengthened in Christ each time. Since we have no other record of this 3 years and it was just after his conversion, logic would seem to imply that Paul went back to school but had a Heavenly Teacher this time. In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Languages Post by: Willowbirch on November 26, 2003, 07:22:27 AM Oklahoma Howdy to All, I'm sure you know this, and it may not even be your difficulty, but I'll suggest something anyway: When I type up a post outside of CU, in Microsoft Works etc., and then cut and paste it to the forum, some of the characters (especially apostrophes) aren't recognized by the forum and are posted as code instead.I must apologize for some posts containing Strong's references. I didn't realize some of the Greek, Hebrew, etc. came out butchered and contained "?" for characters missing in the fonts. I don't know if I have a solution for this. My Bible study material shows all of the characters perfectly, but some of them are obviously lost and replaced with "?s" in the preparation of the post. So, please excuse this. I doubt I will spend the time in searching for fonts to fix this problem, at least not now. In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 26, 2003, 07:42:17 AM Galatians 1:6. I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: 7. Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. "so soon removed..........unto another gospel" "which is not another;" What is Paul saying here? That it is not another Gospel, but a perverted one? That they are preaching Christ but perverting it by wanting to adhere to the law along with the gospel? Oklahoma Howdy to Brother Ollie, Gospel of Christ unto another Gospel which is not another Paul is addressing corrupt teaching that is not a part of the Gospel of Christ. The Galatians were drawn into what men called the Gospel, but it was not, as lies can't be the Gospel. To boil this down to the most simple terms, it must be true to be called the "Gospel". Since the perverting and corrupting teaching was not true, it was not a Gospel, another Gospel, and certainly not the Gospel of Christ. I hope this explains it. In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Languages Post by: nChrist on November 26, 2003, 08:08:01 AM Oklahoma Howdy to All, I'm sure you know this, and it may not even be your difficulty, but I'll suggest something anyway: When I type up a post outside of CU, in Microsoft Works etc., and then cut and paste it to the forum, some of the characters (especially apostrophes) aren't recognized by the forum and are posted as code instead.I must apologize for some posts containing Strong's references. I didn't realize some of the Greek, Hebrew, etc. came out butchered and contained "?" for characters missing in the fonts. I don't know if I have a solution for this. My Bible study material shows all of the characters perfectly, but some of them are obviously lost and replaced with "?s" in the preparation of the post. So, please excuse this. I doubt I will spend the time in searching for fonts to fix this problem, at least not now. In Christ, Tom Oklahoma Howdy to Sister Willowbirch, THANKS! No, I did not know this. I did know that Microsoft word processors insert all kinds of weird control characters, so I don't use them. I use a very small text editor included in my Bible study software. It's nothing fancy at all, but it's odd that all of the Greek, Hebrew, etc. characters show up perfectly in it but not in my much bigger and better text editor I use before posting. I'm guessing the language fonts are hard coded into the Bible study software and not in my operating system fonts that the better text editor uses. Regardless, you are saying the forum software might not recognize the characters anyway, even if I had the right fonts. I've decided not to worry about this anyway. I only use language studies on the most difficult portions of Scripture. I try not to make a consistent use of Greek, Hebrew, Latin, etc, as it gives me a headache. :D Thanks! In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Reba on November 26, 2003, 10:03:03 AM John,
Some times if wonder if anyone really reads the posts. I guess often the once the author is known the post is glanced over and the readers idea of what is said takes over. These last posts of mine about noticing the scriptures do not say Paul was in arabia for 3 years, something i had assumed, gave the impression that maybe i didnt think he was learning or being taught etc. Saying that to get to this sometimes your post seem to come from left field and i can't make heads or tails of them. Is this a problem of not being there/here in person? Guess that is why writers make big bucks. I dont understand why i am not understood and yet i dont understand your posts. Sorta a catch 22. I agree He is the same yesterday today and tomorrow. Salvation belongs to the LORD. There is one true gospel that is the gospel of Jesus Christ. Tis the gospel that comes through the OT, Christ , the disciples, the church fathers, even to and through us. Rom 1:16 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. KJV Note: I see plainly in scripture and the world that many do preach another gospel. False teaching does not change the fact that there is one true gospel. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 26, 2003, 02:38:42 PM Oklahoma Howdy to All,
I'm taking a small break for Thanksgiving. I will be on a small farm near Blair Oklahoma, at the foot of the Wichita Mountains. It won't be the whole family, but it will be a big gathering including my grandchildren. God has richly blessed my family and I, so we have much to give thanks for. I wish you joy and peace with your families and God. Love In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: ollie on November 26, 2003, 05:20:24 PM Galatians 1:6. I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: 7. Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. "so soon removed..........unto another gospel" "which is not another;" What is Paul saying here? That it is not another Gospel, but a perverted one? That they are preaching Christ but perverting it by wanting to adhere to the law along with the gospel? Oklahoma Howdy to Brother Ollie, Gospel of Christ unto another Gospel which is not another Paul is addressing corrupt teaching that is not a part of the Gospel of Christ. The Galatians were drawn into what men called the Gospel, but it was not, as lies can't be the Gospel. To boil this down to the most simple terms, it must be true to be called the "Gospel". Since the perverting and corrupting teaching was not true, it was not a Gospel, another Gospel, and certainly not the Gospel of Christ. I hope this explains it. In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: ollie on November 26, 2003, 05:40:27 PM John, sometimes I think people treat you unfairly and make judgements against you that may not be true because of your very hard to understand style of writing. I agree with Reba. Some of your posts when properly discerned are in agreement with scripture. However this thing going on between you and BEP should not be going on and especially in the study on Galatians. You should not bring it to this study. Give us some thoughts on the Galatian verses currently presented. Amplify and carry out the study. I say this in Christ's love, John, Ollie Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Willowbirch on November 26, 2003, 06:07:41 PM Oklahoma Howdy to All, Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, Tom! We promise not to get TOO out of hand before you get back. ;)I'm taking a small break for Thanksgiving. I will be on a small farm near Blair Oklahoma, at the foot of the Wichita Mountains. It won't be the whole family, but it will be a big gathering including my grandchildren. God has richly blessed my family and I, so we have much to give thanks for. I wish you joy and peace with your families and God. Love In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Willowbirch on November 26, 2003, 06:09:36 PM John, sometimes I think people treat you unfairly and make judgements against you that may not be true because of your very hard to understand style of writing. I agree with Reba. Some of your posts when properly discerned are in agreement with scripture. However this thing going on between you and BEP should not be going on and especially in the study on Galatians. You should not bring it to this study. Give us some thoughts on the Galatian verses currently presented. Amplify and carry out the study. I say this in Christ's love, John, Ollie Title: Galatians Bible Study Post by: Ambassador4Christ on November 26, 2003, 07:42:39 PM This was Posted By Brother Love on another thread. I say Amen
NO OTHER GOSPEL Scripture Reading: Galatians 1:6-9 "Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them...Now to Him that is of power to establish you ACCORDING TO MY GOSPEL and the preaching of Jesus Christ, ACCORDING TO THE REVELATION OF THE MYSTERY, which was kept secret since the world began" (Romans 16:17,25). "For there are many un-ruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake" (Titus 1:10, 11). Paul continually warned against the teaching of human wisdom and false doctrine. He constantly reiterated the purity and verity of his own instruction as empowered by the Holy Spirit of God and the authority of his apostleship. "Now ye have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual" (1 Corinthians 2:12, 13). Even young Timothy was cautioned by the apostle to beware of spoilers of the truth. "O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called: which some professing have erred concerning the faith" (1 Timothy 6:20, 21). "Evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them" (2 Timothy 3:13, 14). Particularly emphatic were Paul's admonitions to the church at Galatia."There be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed!" Title: Galatians Bible Study Post by: Ambassador4Christ on November 26, 2003, 07:58:53 PM Oklahoma Howdy to All, I'm taking a small break for Thanksgiving. I will be on a small farm near Blair Oklahoma, at the foot of the Wichita Mountains. It won't be the whole family, but it will be a big gathering including my grandchildren. God has richly blessed my family and I, so we have much to give thanks for. I wish you joy and peace with your families and God. Love In Christ, Tom Have a GRRRRRRRRRRRRREAT Holiday Brother Tom ;D Grace & Peace Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 26, 2003, 09:42:21 PM Have a GRRRRRRRRRRRRREAT Holiday Brother Tom ;D Grace & Peace Oklahoma Howdy to Ambassador4Christ, Thanks Brother, and you too. I really can't miss having a great one unless I eat enough to blow up. ;D All of the rest will be a beautiful family day with God. Love In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: ollie on November 26, 2003, 11:55:17 PM John,
Yes, one must be born again, not of the flesh, but the spirit of God. I agree with that part of your post. Now let us discuss Galatians. John 3:1. There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: 2. The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. 3. Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. 4. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? 5. Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 6. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit 7. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. How does one come into Christ? Through baptism. Romans 6:3. Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 4. Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. Love in Christ, Ollie Title: Galatians Bible Study Post by: Ambassador4Christ on November 27, 2003, 08:59:03 AM John, Yes, one must be born again, not of the flesh, but the spirit of God. I agree with that part of your post. Now let us discuss Galatians. John 3:1. There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: 2. The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. 3. Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. 4. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? 5. Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 6. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit 7. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. How does one come into Christ? Through baptism. Romans 6:3. Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 4. Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. Love in Christ, Ollie Ollie your post like JTB has nothing to do with the study of Galatians, dont get get caught up with (his way). And your teaching: How does one come into Christ? Through baptism. Romans 6:3. Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 4. Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. Is wrong, all cults teach that this baptism is water, NO water in Romans 6:3, this is the ONE Baptism Ephesians 4:5 by the Holy Spirit 1 Corinthians 12:13. Galatians 4:16 Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Petro on November 29, 2003, 03:49:40 AM And this three years of communion with the Lord thru the Spirit, could very well have been his time, to gather his thoughts and meditate on the great events that had taken place in his life, no doubt the Lords prophecy concerning the Spirit became real to the apsotle; Saul had to spend time, for the ministery, unravelling his misconceptions and all of the human teachings injected into that which he had learned about God, while at the feet of Gamaliel. He didn't have the NT to help him, he only had the OT writings, to reconcile to what he believed. Oklahoma Howdy to Petro, I've studied this area again because some had questions. It truly isn't specified what Paul did in these three veiled years, but the speculation that he did what you and others have suggested is more than reasonable. I read your post again and took particular interest in your statement about Paul not having the New Testament to help him. I thought about the many years of extremely strict training Paul/Saul had in his advancement to Pharisee. I now see the writing of Paul and know beyond any doubt that it was inspired by God. In Christ, Tom Amen, I should have pointed out, something which will shed more light on this matter. Paul wrote these words later at the Letter to the Hebrews; Heb 5 8 Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; 9 And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him; 10 Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec. 11 Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing. 12 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. 13 For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. 14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. It dawned on me, as I studied this very thing about Paul, that what he wrote about, he had experienced himself. Begining at verse 10, he knew the OT, teachings, and he would not hear of it, that Jesus was the Messiah, this is why he persecuted the church of Jesus; and, no doubt had been present when Gamaliel, spoke these words; Acts 5 34 Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space; 35 And said unto them, Ye men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what ye intend to do as touching these men. 36 For before these days rose up Theudas, boasting himself to be somebody; to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was slain; and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered, and brought to nought. 37 After this man rose up Judas of Galilee in the days of the taxing, and drew away much people after him: he also perished; and all, even as many as obeyed him, were dispersed. 38 And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought: 39 But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God. Paul fought against God. He even confesses that he fought against God at; Acts 22 3 I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye all are this day. 4 And I persecuted this way unto the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women. 5 As also the high priest doth bear me witness, and all the estate of the elders: from whom also I received letters unto the brethren, and went to Damascus, to bring them which were there bound unto Jerusalem, for to be punished. He fought against and persecuted God, thinking he was doing God a service, by imprisoning and killing Gods people. Even Jesus, who appeared unto him, spoke to him saying; Acts 9 4 ....Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? 5 And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. Making it even clearer at, that he fought against God, ignorantly: 1 Tim 1 12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; 13 Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. When he met the Lord and was saved, he became a babe in Christ Jesus, he needed those three years in desert , (I was reminded of the words which scripture gives in defining the life of John the Baptist, concerning his being raised in the desert; And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his showing unto Israel. (Lk 1:80) , to be nursed with the sincere milk of the Word of God. Years later he writes to his kinsmen in Hebrews; For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. Certainly in three years, he came to full age. Many years ago, when my sons were small I took them fishing, and I learned this lesson, I will never forget; In the process of fishing, one of my boys, made a big ole birds nest in my fishing line, and when I looked at it, my first impulse was to cut it off, but since that would have shortened the fishing line considerably, I decided to unravel it, it took sometime to do it, and it required alot of patience, since while I was unraveling they fished and were catching them. When I finally did it, I thought imediately of this very verse where Paul went to Arabia for three years, and I understood it as an unraveling experience of his fishing line. Then he returned and fished the rest of his days, for mens souls, with the Gospel he preached (1 Cor 15:1-4), this was his fishing line. Jesus said to the disciples Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. (Mat 4:19) No one can fish with a birds nest in their fishing line, the honest fisherman, learns patience by taking the time to unravel the line in order to set things straight and have enough of it to present to the big fish, while the one who cuts it off and reties it, does it in haste because of impatience, and doesn't have enough line in the end to catch the big ones. They all get away. I know this little comparison story doesn't nearly do the gospel justice, but the principle is there, both Peter and Paul, used nets since they converted souls in large groups. Fishers of men require a good understanding of the Gospel , in order to present it in a way that produces results for God. Preaching the Gospel is like fishing, isn't it?? Blessings Petro Title: The Apostle Paul Post by: nChrist on November 29, 2003, 06:14:54 AM Oklahoma Howdy to Brother Petro,
AMEN Brother! Yes, there is an excellent comparison between preaching the Gospel and fishing. It's also true that much patience is required to unravel the tremendous number of "bird's nests" woven into the hearts and minds of so many today. However, it couldn't be more difficult than it was in the day of the Apostle Paul. Paul's life of extreme contrasts is fascinating. I think it would be fair to say that all Christians carry around a "bird's nest" of varying sizes and difficulty. The root cause of the nest would always be vanity and the teachings of men. When we get quiet and forget about self, that's the most productive time in HIS WORD. Satan, the author of confusion, doesn't want us to have "eyes to see and ears to hear" the powerful TRUTH OF GOD'S WORD. Love In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Forrest on November 29, 2003, 06:55:45 AM Good morning all;
I've been trying to get something strait in my mind about Paul, where does it say Paul spent three years in Arabia? Galatians 1:17 it says "17 Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus." KJV. Then verse 18 says "18 Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days." KJV. The way I understand it, it doesn't say how long He spent in Arabia, but it says He spent three years in Damascus after returning from Arabia then went to Jerusalem. Maybe somebody can enlighten me. Title: Re:Languages Post by: Forrest on November 29, 2003, 07:04:40 AM Oklahoma Howdy to All, I'm sure you know this, and it may not even be your difficulty, but I'll suggest something anyway: When I type up a post outside of CU, in Microsoft Works etc., and then cut and paste it to the forum, some of the characters (especially apostrophes) aren't recognized by the forum and are posted as code instead.I must apologize for some posts containing Strong's references. I didn't realize some of the Greek, Hebrew, etc. came out butchered and contained "?" for characters missing in the fonts. I don't know if I have a solution for this. My Bible study material shows all of the characters perfectly, but some of them are obviously lost and replaced with "?s" in the preparation of the post. So, please excuse this. I doubt I will spend the time in searching for fonts to fix this problem, at least not now. In Christ, Tom To solve the problem with M. Word on the fourm after typing out your mesage in Word cut and paste to M.Note pad then cut and paste to fourm, and it comes through ok. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Reba on November 29, 2003, 09:28:37 AM Good morning all; I've been trying to get something strait in my mind about Paul, where does it say Paul spent three years in Arabia? Galatians 1:17 it says "17 Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus." KJV. Then verse 18 says "18 Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days." KJV. The way I understand it, it doesn't say how long He spent in Arabia, but it says He spent three years in Damascus after returning from Arabia then went to Jerusalem. Maybe somebody can enlighten me. Believe the scripture. We people get ideas in our heads and cant seem to shake them. A few post back i said just what you said here. I had thought Paul spent 3 years in Arabia untill about a week ago. When ya see these small truths be willing to open your heart to the Word. The main point is not where Paul was tought but that he was tought. Paul clearly shows he was willing to open his heart to hear the LORD, forsaking a lifetime of teaching. PS I went back and looked it was on Nov 25 post # 77 . I found this to read the same in all the translations i checked, not just KJV. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Petro on November 29, 2003, 08:24:40 PM Good morning all; I've been trying to get something strait in my mind about Paul, where does it say Paul spent three years in Arabia? Galatians 1:17 it says "17 Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus." KJV. Then verse 18 says "18 Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days." KJV. The way I understand it, it doesn't say how long He spent in Arabia, but it says He spent three years in Damascus after returning from Arabia then went to Jerusalem. Maybe somebody can enlighten me. forrest, You should go back to Sauls conversion at Acts 9:1-25. Notice, under what circumstances he left Damascus, the Jews there sought to kill him, note the wording in verses 22 thru 25 carefully. It stands to reason, he didn't leave on a weekend trip, leaving friday, and returning monday, he was lowered down in a basket in order to leave the city, he could not leave by the main gate, since these jews were waiting for him to come by, in order to kill him. Chances are he spent the better part of this three year period in Arabia, whereever it was. Blessings, Petro Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Reba on November 29, 2003, 10:38:46 PM Acts 9
22But Saul increased all the more in strength, and continued to confound and put to confusion the Jews who lived in Damascus by comparing and examining evidence and proving that Jesus is the Christ (the Messiah). 23After considerable time had elapsed, the Jews conspired to put Saul out of the way by slaying him, 24But [the knowledge of] their plot was made known to Saul. They were guarding the [city's] gates day and night to kill him, 25But his disciples took him at night and let him down through the [city's] wall, lowering him in a basket or hamper. 26And when he had arrived in Jerusalem, he tried to associate himself with the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, for they did not believe he really was a disciple. AMP Acts 9:22-26 22 But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ. 23 And after that many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel to kill him: 24 But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him. 25 Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket. 26 And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple. KJV Acts 9:22-26 2 Yet Saul grew more and more powerful and baffled the Jews living in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Christ. 23 After many days had gone by, the Jews conspired to kill him, 24 but Saul learned of their plan. Day and night they kept close watch on the city gates in order to kill him. 25 But his followers took him by night and lowered him in a basket through an opening in the wall. 26 When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. NIV Acts 9:22-26 22 But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews that dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is the Christ. 23 And when many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel together to kill him: 24 but their plot became known to Saul. And they watched the gates also day and night that they might kill him: 25 but his disciples took him by night, and let him down through the wall, lowering him in a basket. 26 And when he was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: and they were all afraid of him, not believing that he was a disciple. ASV Here are 4 different versions of the same scripture. I am sure there are more . . . Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on November 30, 2003, 07:02:55 AM Boy. I leave for three days and I lose track of everything! Oooooh well. Price of aging. ;D Anywho...
Quote Oklahoma Howdy to Brother Allinall, The "Desert Theological Seminary" is most likely what Paul did with those three years. Maybe you missed it, but my conclusions were the same right after the quote you have above. (See below) I love the way you put that, "Desert Theological Seminary". I'm still working on part three about the Apostle Paul. I found numerous sources from various Bible scholars that indicate this is exactly what Paul did with those 3 years. However, I haven't found a source that gives chapter and verse about the details of Paul's "Desert Theological Seminary". I'll have to share this with my uncle who lives, breathes, and preaches the writings of the Apostle Paul. Yup! I missed it Brother Tom! I understand now, and thanks for clarifying. Hope you had as blessed a Thanksgiving as I! And Willowbirch, You're most welcome! Hopefully something God's taught me through His word can be shared coherently enough to help others. But then there is that aging thing... :D Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on November 30, 2003, 07:10:00 AM Quote Paul seems to have every reason to Boast about his human effort in bringing himself closer to God, however he considers all that to be DUNG. Verse 9 shows not by righteousness of his own by following traditions for the LAW, but through - the righteousness that comes from faith! Praise God! I feel like preaching!...lol Grace and Peace! Shake that bush brother!!! Very well stated and so very true. Praise God! Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Petro on November 30, 2003, 11:27:27 AM The chronology is important, otherwise, the overall picture gets distorted;
Paul is saved on the road to Damascus, he enters Damascus, Annaias comes to him, with words from the Lord, he believes and is baptized, he is fed and is strengthened, spends several days with the disciples (Acts 9:17-19) Imediately he begins preaching in the synagogues, that Jesus is the Son of God. (vs 20) 21 But all that heard him were amazed, and said; Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests? Verses 22-25, have already been expounded on, and now we come to verse 26. Verse 26, occures at the end of three years, while verse 37 and 28, fourteen years later. Verses 26 does not go together, with verses 27-28; and if it were not for verse 27 and 28, verse 26 would be taken out of context, and inspite of verses 27-28, it still, is misinterpreted, most of the time. The reason why we can know, Verses 27-28, occur 14 years later, is that verse 27 tells us, But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles,.............this is the key portion of the verse, since at verses This came about this way, When the Apostles heard that Antioch had received the Gospel (Acts 11:19-22), from Jerusalem Baranabs was sent to Antioch. Acts 11:25-26, we read that Barnabas sought out Paul at Tarsus (vs 25), and when he found him, brought him down to Antioch, where they both assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch. 27 And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch. 28 And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the Spirit that there should be great dearth throughout all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar. 29 Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judaea: 30 Which also they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul. It was after this, that Paul, Barnabas and Titus, went to Jerusalem to see about the matter which was brought before the Apostles and Elders at Jerusalem before the first Council at Jerusalem (Acts 15:1-35). So clearly the second time Paul went o Jerusalem was 14 years later, when Barnabas took him and presented him to the Apostles (Gal 2:1), on his first visit, he saw none of them except James the Lord brother (Gal 1:19) 27 But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. 28 And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem. Verse 26, goes with; verses Acts 22:17-18 and, Paul clears it all up herein about his first visit to Jerusalem at the end of three years in Arabia and Damascus, Notice; Gal 1 17 Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus. 18 Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days. 19 But other of the apostles saw I none, save James the Lord's brother. These verses are understood in the lite of Acts 9:26. Paul never found the Apostles on his first visit to Jerusalem at the end of three years following his conversion, the Holy Spirit appearing to him (Acts 22:17-21), and Paul then returned to by way of Judea, Syria and Cilicia, to Tarsus, his birthplace. (Gal 1:20-24) There is more.. Blessings, Petro Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on November 30, 2003, 08:25:59 PM Oklahoma Howdy to All,
I have a raging case of the flu. I'll join back in when I'm able. If someone wishes to continue with the next verses, please feel free to and go ahead. I love Galatians, I'm just too sick to think right now. Love In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Brother Love on December 01, 2003, 06:07:05 AM Oklahoma Howdy to All, I have a raging case of the flu. I'll join back in when I'm able. If someone wishes to continue with the next verses, please feel free to and go ahead. I love Galatians, I'm just too sick to think right now. Love In Christ, Tom OK Bro, will be praying for you. Brother Love :) Title: BELIEVERS JUSTIFIED - Galatians Bible Study Post by: Brother Love on December 01, 2003, 06:10:49 AM I really liked this Two Minutes With The Bible By Pastor Stam, for today December 1, 2003
Dec 1 BELIEVERS JUSTIFIED Our Lords appearance to Saul of Tarsus (later called Paul) on the road to Damascus, changed the pitiless per- secutor in a moment into the docile, yes the devoted fol- lower of the Christ he had so bitterly hated. This transformation took place not only because he had now seen the risen, ascended Christ; it was caused also by what he had learned from Christ. From heaven the Lord had revealed to Paul the glory of His finished work of re- demption and had sent him forth to proclaim "the gospel of the grace of God" (Acts 20:24). This is seen in the closing words of the Apostles first recorded sermon, delivered at the synagogue at Antioch in Pisidia. After mentioning the death and resurrection of Christ, the Apostle said: "Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this Man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins; and by Him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses" (Acts 13:38,39). Paul never changed this message, but kept emphasizing it wherever he went as well as in his writings. He saw in this truth the answer to man’s condemnation for breaking Gods holy law. Thus he wrote to the Romans: "...by the law is the knowledge of sin. But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested" (Rom. 3:20,21). "[We] declare, I say, at this time, [Christs] righteousness; that [God] might be just and the Justifier of him which believeth in Jesus" (Rom. 3:26). Mark well: He does not say, "believeth and is baptized." This was the message committed to the twelve (Mark 16: 16; Acts 2:38). With the ushering in of the dispensation of grace God was manifested as "the Justifier of him which believeth in Jesus." Written by Pastor Stam Subscribe at: http://www.bereanbiblesociety.org/twominut.html Two Minutes With The Bible By Pastor Stam Mailing Address: Berean Bible Society N112 W17761 Mequon Road P.O. Box 756 Germantown, WI 53022 Web Site: http://www.bereanbiblesociety.org/ Gospel Books, Materials, & Free Mailings Email: berean@execpc.com Telephone: 262-255-4750 Posted By Brother Love Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: 2nd Timothy on December 01, 2003, 09:44:30 AM Amen Brother Love!
I have heard Grace desribed once like this.... If you're out on the street, and a homeless person approaches you and asks for a dollar, giving it to him seeing his hopelessness is showing mercy. However... If you're out on the street, and well dressed man walks up to you, knocks you down, and demands you give him 50 dollars....and you give it to him....this is grace! To say it in easier form....Grace is something even in our undeserving state, that is given freely from God. Thinking about Saul/Paul, and how he persecuted the Lords Church. God showed him Grace. Almost as if to say, the less we deserve it, the more God gives it. And oh how he uses it for his purpose. Pauls work is testimony to this. Grace and Peace! Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: 2nd Timothy on December 01, 2003, 09:51:57 AM Oklahoma Howdy to All, I have a raging case of the flu. I'll join back in when I'm able. If someone wishes to continue with the next verses, please feel free to and go ahead. I love Galatians, I'm just too sick to think right now. Love In Christ, Tom Sorry to hear about your flu Tom. We'll be praying for a speedy recovery for you. Grace and Peace! Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: ollie on December 02, 2003, 05:51:59 PM John, Yes, one must be born again, not of the flesh, but the spirit of God. I agree with that part of your post. Now let us discuss Galatians. John 3:1. There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: 2. The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. 3. Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. 4. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? 5. Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 6. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit 7. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. How does one come into Christ? Through baptism. Romans 6:3. Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 4. Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. Love in Christ, Ollie Ollie your post like JTB has nothing to do with the study of Galatians, dont get get caught up with (his way). And your teaching: How does one come into Christ? Through baptism. Romans 6:3. Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 4. Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. Is wrong, all cults teach that this baptism is water, NO water in Romans 6:3, this is the ONE Baptism Ephesians 4:5 by the Holy Spirit 1 Corinthians 12:13. Galatians 4:16 "John, Yes, one must be born again, not of the flesh, but the spirit of God. I agree with that part of your post. Now let us discuss Galatians." Nothing was said of water baptism. Romans 6 is not wrong. It is the word of God coming to us through the inspiration of Paul. But then all this is also off the topic "Galatians". Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on December 02, 2003, 07:09:04 PM Oklahoma Howdy to All,
When we started the Galatians Bible study, I thought we were capable of an in-depth Bible study. I am now thinking there is a greater interest in argument than in Bible study. I'll have to pray about this and see if I feel led to continue. Thanks for your prayers about my health. I am getting better. Love In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on December 03, 2003, 12:37:10 AM Brother Tom,
I hope you're feeling better! The flu's are nasty this year. I also hope that we all are capable of learning together in this study. I'd hate to see it fail because we cannot at least agree to disagree. God bless! Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Saved_4ever on December 03, 2003, 02:52:36 AM Perhaps some more stricter guidlines should be set when we do a bible study. I was really hoping this would work out as I'm not much interested in coming back to argue the same things with the same people over and over again.
In my experience JTB just likes to preach his own thing. A4C likes to jump on it sometimes too. Anyhow, I thought this would be interesting concerning Paul. Names always have meanings and often you can see one's name truly showing their character. According to Hitchcocks bible names (I haven't found any other yet) here are the meanings behind Saul and Paul: Saul demanded; lent; ditch; death Paul small; little I found that to be interesting. Hope you all did as well. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Forrest on December 03, 2003, 03:48:14 AM BEP;
I'm glad that you are doing better. As for the Bible study, I expected that there would be some disagreement, but it gone better than I expected as for JTB all he wants is argument, and debate just ignore him and his kind. As for me all I want is enlightenment, and glory for GOD. Title: Galatians Bible Study Post by: Brother Love on December 03, 2003, 04:11:09 AM Perhaps some more stricter guidlines should be set when we do a bible study. I was really hoping this would work out as I'm not much interested in coming back to argue the same things with the same people over and over again. In my experience JTB just likes to preach his own thing. A4C likes to jump on it sometimes too. Anyhow, I thought this would be interesting concerning Paul. Names always have meanings and often you can see one's name truly showing their character. According to Hitchcocks bible names (I haven't found any other yet) here are the meanings behind Saul and Paul: Saul demanded; lent; ditch; death Paul small; little I found that to be interesting. Hope you all did as well. "There be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed!" Brother Love :) Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Reba on December 03, 2003, 10:54:48 AM Perhaps some more stricter guidlines should be set when we do a bible study. I was really hoping this would work out as I'm not much interested in coming back to argue the same things with the same people over and over again. Nice to 'see' you again Saved! :)In my experience JTB just likes to preach his own thing. A4C likes to jump on it sometimes too. Anyhow, I thought this would be interesting concerning Paul. Names always have meanings and often you can see one's name truly showing their character. According to Hitchcocks bible names (I haven't found any other yet) here are the meanings behind Saul and Paul: Saul demanded; lent; ditch; death Paul small; little I found that to be interesting. Hope you all did as well. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: ollie on December 03, 2003, 01:16:30 PM Perhaps some more stricter guidlines should be set when we do a bible study. I was really hoping this would work out as I'm not much interested in coming back to argue the same things with the same people over and over again. Nice to 'see' you again Saved! :)In my experience JTB just likes to preach his own thing. A4C likes to jump on it sometimes too. Anyhow, I thought this would be interesting concerning Paul. Names always have meanings and often you can see one's name truly showing their character. According to Hitchcocks bible names (I haven't found any other yet) here are the meanings behind Saul and Paul: Saul demanded; lent; ditch; death Paul small; little I found that to be interesting. Hope you all did as well. Likewise, welcome back. I missed your signature. Good reading you again. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: ollie on December 03, 2003, 01:35:09 PM Not sure where we left off in the study, but it seemed maybe a discussion about Paul and his stay in Arabia. Therefore I will comment here. Hope it is ok to do so?
Galatians 1:22. And was unknown by face unto the churches of Judaea which were in Christ: 23. But they had heard only, That he which persecuted us in times past now preacheth the faith which once he destroyed. 24. And they glorified God in me. The churches of Judea glorified God in Paul even though he was unknown to them by sight and they had only known of him from hearing of his conversion from persecuting the church to preaching the faith. Does anyone have any thoughts on how the churches of Judea might have glorified God in Paul? They were going on hearsay but yet their faith seems so strong about him and what he preached and of course it was not hearsay as we know, but true. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on December 03, 2003, 02:01:24 PM Oklahoma Howdy to All,
After considerable thought and prayer, I do not feel led to continue. We got through Verse 10, and anyone who wishes to continue, please do. I would simply pray that whatever is done will be for the Glory of God and not for the vanity of man in petty arguments. Love In Christ To All, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on December 04, 2003, 02:06:32 AM All right people. Let's clean this up and have a God honoring study. If we agree, then praise God. If we do not, then let us be concerned enough with the testimony of Christ we are posing to those who read but do not post, that we can at least disagree in love. We love God, because He loves us. Let's allow that love to show in our dealings with each other. Study. Leave pride at the door, and if we see something that is truth, bend our beliefs to fit God's word, not that word to fit our beliefs. Build one another with that truth. Can we do this brothers and sisters? :)
Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Reba on December 04, 2003, 09:11:21 AM All right people. Let's clean this up and have a God honoring study. If we agree, then praise God. If we do not, then let us be concerned enough with the testimony of Christ we are posing to those who read but do not post, that we can at least disagree in love. We love God, because He loves us. Let's allow that love to show in our dealings with each other. Study. Leave pride at the door, and if we see something that is truth, bend our beliefs to fit God's word, not that word to fit our beliefs. Build one another with that truth. Can we do this brothers and sisters? :) OK lead. :PTitle: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: 2nd Timothy on December 04, 2003, 10:43:29 AM OK, lets see if this will get the ball rolling...
Gal 1:10 For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. Gal 1:11 But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. Paul puts this in a unique way. The word persuade is interesting....but to me, he seems to be saying or asking, is he pleasing men, or God? If he was still pleasing men then he could not possibly please God. Back the word persuade...the original greek for persuade here is "peitho" which means convince. He just stated in verse 9 that those who added circumcision to the truth Paul taught should be accursed. They were trying to convince men that they were truly Godly by outward signs or works and persuading the churches they too should follow suit. Paul says no! He is trying to convince God by teaching truth which Christ imparted, going against what men are teaching. Verse 11 backs this up by saying what he teaches is not by man. This is my take anyhow, looking forward how others see these two verse. Grace and Peace! Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Petro on December 04, 2003, 10:46:46 AM Not sure where we left off in the study, but it seemed maybe a discussion about Paul and his stay in Arabia. Therefore I will comment here. Hope it is ok to do so? Galatians 1:22. And was unknown by face unto the churches of Judaea which were in Christ: 23. But they had heard only, That he which persecuted us in times past now preacheth the faith which once he destroyed. 24. And they glorified God in me. The churches of Judea glorified God in Paul even though he was unknown to them by sight and they had only known of him from hearing of his conversion from persecuting the church to preaching the faith. I went back to my previous post #117, where I tried to explain, that unless, one doesn't get the sequence of Paul's travels in the right order, there will be some confusion, and in re reading it, I realize my attempt was dis jointed. Quote Does anyone have any thoughts on how the churches of Judea might have glorified God in Paul? They were going on hearsay but yet their faith seems so strong about him and what he preached and of course it was not hearsay as we know, but true. As had been stated before, after Pauls conversion, imediately he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus was the Son of God, confounding the Jews at Damascus, so much so, that they sought to kill him, and so he leaves Damascus for Arabia (Gal 1:3-25). After an unspecified time he returned to Damascus, upon which after being saved three years he went to Jerusalem of his own accord, and tried to join up with the Apostles, but didn't meet up with except Peter, and James the Lords brother (Acts 9:26, This is all Dr. Luke writes about his first visit to Jerusalem), the reason why it can be said that verse 27-28 of Acts 9, is understood to be fourteen years later is because Barnabas brought Paul from Damascus (Gal 2:1) and he when we read verse 28, carefully we read; 28 And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem. It was here that in his comings in, and goings out that he ministered to these churches in Judaea, begining at the Caesarea, which is where Cornelius was saved afterwards,(Acts 9:29-30) when Peter preached to him and his family, note Pauls words to King Agrippa at Acts 26; 19 Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision: 20 But showed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance. Which substantiate the verses at Galaltians 1; 20 Now the things which I write unto you, behold, before God, I lie not. 21 Afterwards I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia; 22 And was unknown by face unto the churches of Judaea which were in Christ: But because the Grecians at Jerusalem went about to slay him (Acts 9:29), he did not return to Jerusalem but was sent to Tarsus (Acts 9:30), which no doubt he went along the way preaching Jesus (Acts 9:31). By the way note verse 21 above, Syria and Cilicia (Seleucia) are on the way to Tarsus. But your question was; Quote Does anyone have any thoughts on how the churches of Judea might have glorified God in Paul? They were going on hearsay but yet their faith seems so strong about him and what he preached and of course it was not hearsay as we know, but true. According to the verses you posted and others referenced, Ceasarea is in the region of Judea, which is referenced at Acts 11, 12. It is important to read, the passages begining with Pauls conversion at Acts 9 thru Acts 12, and connect them with Acts 22, and Acts 26, to glean these nuggets from God s Word. Note the end of chapter 12, of Acts, Barnabas, travelled with him the whole time. The churches of Judea didn't know Paul personally but I am sure they had heard of his doings, (Note Acts 8:1) from the scattered church faithfull who had settled in Judea, nevertheless; all they knew was that this one who persecuted the Christians so cruelly was now a Christian himself and was preaching Christ to others. Because of this they glorified God for what He had DONE in the life of Paul. (We do this all the time, when we here of Gods converting work in others we have only heard about, don't we?) Anyhow I trust this may have cleared this up to some extent. Blessings, Petro Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: 2nd Timothy on December 04, 2003, 03:22:02 PM OK, lets see if this will get the ball rolling... Gal 1:10 For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. Gal 1:11 But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. Paul puts this in a unique way. The word persuade is interesting....but to me, he seems to be saying or asking, is he pleasing men, or God? If he was still pleasing men then he could not possibly please God. Back the word persuade...the original greek for persuade here is "peitho" which means convince. He just stated in verse 9 that those who added circumcision to the truth Paul taught should be accursed. They were trying to convince men that they were truly Godly by outward signs or works and persuading the churches they too should follow suit. Paul says no! He is trying to convince God by teaching truth which Christ imparted, going against what men are teaching. Verse 11 backs this up by saying what he teaches is not by man. This is my take anyhow, looking forward how others see these two verse. Grace and Peace! Actually, looking at this again, it seems wrong to say he is trying to convince God. Rather, he is not trying to convince Men OR God. I notice he doesn't use both men and God when he asked who he is trying to please. So I correct myself!.....lol Maybe there is more here that I am getting though. Grace and Peace! Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on December 05, 2003, 01:00:39 AM Tim,
Try this translation of the passage for more insight perhaps: Quote For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ. You weren't too entirely off in the first place brother! To me, he is saying that he isn't stating these things for the approval of men, rather, he seeks the approval of God. He is "persuading" God's favor, and to please Him as he goes on to intimate. And you're right. He's not trying to convince anyone. He's seeking the approval of God for the message he's preaching. He doesn't want the accursed status to be applied to him! Good thinking brother! Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on December 05, 2003, 01:13:06 AM ...which gets me to thinking. Paul had a way with not candy-coating his messages. He was quick to praise even the unworthy, but he didn't worry with offending people with the truth. How often do we fear man rather than God? How often do we seek the approval of man with the truth's we adhere to, rather than seeking God's approval? Paul's statement here speaks volumes. It is God Who's approval matters most. :)
Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Petro on December 05, 2003, 01:27:46 AM Maybe I am wrong, but I thought we had gotten to verse 24.
Anyhow, I thought I would post verses 10 thru 24, in the English Standard Version, which makes for very easy reading. Gal 1 Gal 1 10 For am I now seeking approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ. 11 For I would have you know, brothers that the gospel that was preached by me is not mans gospel. 12 For I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it, but I received it through a revelation of Jesus Christ. 13 For you have heard of my former life in Judaism, How I persecuted the church of God violently and tried to destroy it. 14 And I was advancing in Judaism beyond many my own age among my people, so extremely zealous was I for the traditions of my fathers. 15 But when He had set me apart before I was born, and who called me by his grace, was pleased to reveal his Son to me, in order that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not imediately consult with anyone, 17 Nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me, but I went away into Arabia, and returned again to Damascus. 18 Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to visit Cephas and remained with him fifteen days. 19 But I saw none of the other apostles except James the Lord's brother. 20 (In what I am writing to you, before God, I do not lie) 21 Then I went into the regions of Syria and Cilicia. 22 And I was still unknown in person to the churches of Judea that are in Christ. 23 They only were hearing it said, "He who used to persecute us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy. 24 And they glorified God because of me. For simple review.. And it has been interesting just reviewing, Pauls conversion and where he had been to and how it came to be he had gotten this far. Acts 16:6, 18:23,1 Cor 16:1, and besides this letter to the Galatians, another letter to the Galatians is written by Peter, in his first letter, to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, (1 Pet 1:1) Reading these helps in connecting dots, in the study. Blessings, Petro Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on December 05, 2003, 01:35:39 AM Sweet! I hadn't thought of the 1 Peter 1 passage in this matter brother. Thanks!
Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Petro on December 05, 2003, 11:01:53 AM Actually, in order to get ready for any bible study even studying a book like Galatians, one almost needs do a bible study in itself.
I was thinking this morning as I considered what had been shared by everyone to this point. It helps to know that the letter to the Galatians was written before the book of Acts around 48 A.D., while Acts is dated by scholars at 62 A.D. because it ends abruptly with Paul's imprisonment at Rome. Also, in my previous post I mentioned reading thru Acts 12, however, chapters 13 and 14 are essential reading as it tells of Pauls firt missionary journey after returning from Jerusalem, sent at the bidding of the Holy Spirit (Acts 13:2). Anyhow, where did the study leave off?? Blessings, Petro Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: 2nd Timothy on December 05, 2003, 04:24:42 PM Petro,
I got a little lost during all the debating myself. Some stayed on what the aspect of what the gospel really was, and others went ahead with Paul's service discussing where he had been. After all that died down, Tom stated in his last post.... Quote Oklahoma Howdy to All, After considerable thought and prayer, I do not feel led to continue. We got through Verse 10, and anyone who wishes to continue, please do. I would simply pray that whatever is done will be for the Glory of God and not for the vanity of man in petty arguments. Love In Christ To All, Tom So I started with 10 and 11 since you could hear a pin drop in here....lol. I liked the discussion's based off each verse, with everyone having a chance to give their views or ask questions. I think its fair to say a few of us lost track of where we were including myself. ??? I vote we start from verse 11, if for no other reason than to give me a chance to catch up. ;) Grace and Peace! Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Petro on December 05, 2003, 06:11:48 PM Petro, I got a little lost during all the debating myself. Some stayed on what the aspect of what the gospel really was, and others went ahead with Paul's service discussing where he had been. After all that died down, Tom stated in his last post.... Quote Oklahoma Howdy to All, After considerable thought and prayer, I do not feel led to continue. We got through Verse 10, and anyone who wishes to continue, please do. I would simply pray that whatever is done will be for the Glory of God and not for the vanity of man in petty arguments. Love In Christ To All, Tom So I started with 10 and 11 since you could hear a pin drop in here....lol. I liked the discussion's based off each verse, with everyone having a chance to give their views or ask questions. I think its fair to say a few of us lost track of where we were including myself. ??? I vote we start from verse 11, if for no other reason than to give me a chance to catch up. ;) Grace and Peace! 2d Timothy, I am agreeable to that, and I do apoligize, since I was answering ollies, question and trying to get some ground work in, which would allow for a easier understanding of Gal's. Actually everything that would be prestudy of any other book written by Paul, shopuld be started off of thre book of Acts. I say let us proceed. Lord willing.. Blessings, Petro Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: ollie on December 05, 2003, 06:32:47 PM I found these thoughts and they might be of interest on this subject.
"Following his conversion and the Damascus incident, he was led by the now-indwelling Holy Spirit into Arabia then again into Damascus where he was set apart for three years of preparation before finally journeying to Jerusalem to meet Peter. The Scriptures are silent about his activities during this time except to carry Paul's testimony that he was being taught by the revelations of Jesus Christ. It is also interesting that the Disciples were set apart with Jesus for three years before they began their ministries as Apostles and now we see that Paul also spent three years apart with the same Jesus before assuming the Apostleship Christ had called him to." The highlight is mine as this is something of which I was not aware or had not connected the thoughts. "It is also interesting that he was led into Arabia for his desert experience just as Moses had been led into the land of Midian, and as Christ had been led into the wilderness." JOAN KREMPEL http://www.joankrempelministries.com/frontpage/paul.html Title: Re:The Apostle Paul - Part Two Post by: Sower on December 05, 2003, 11:13:21 PM Acts 9:3 And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: Acts 9:4 And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? Acts 9:5 And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. Acts 9:6 And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. It is important to note that Saul used the term "Lord" probably as one would use "Sir" and didn't understand he was in the presence of the risen Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ until later. Saul arose and was blind. Tom Brother Tom: Thanks for your warm welcome elsewhere on this forum. I've missed the Christian interaction and encouragement, and it's good to see that the book of Galatians is being studied in depth. I trust the Lord will guide some of the misguided Messianic Jews of today to this discussion, since they are doing exactly what many of the Galatians were doing -- turning from grace to the law. However, coming back to your comments which I have quoted above, I believe that when Saul addressed the Lord Jesus Christ -- "the Lord of glory" -- as "Lord", he used that word with the full knowledge and assurance in his heart that he was in the presence of the living Saviour -- the LORD God Almighty. Why should we come to that conclusion? 1. Paul tells us in Acts 22:6 that is was "about noon" when there shone "a great light" from heaven. In the Middle East(and those parts of the world), the sun blazes intensely at noon , yet here was a light infinitely more intense than the sun. What could be it's source? Saul, who was steeped in the OT Scriptures, would have immediately realized that this was the shekinah glory of JEHOVAH, because of the great contrast between the noonday sun and the glory of God. 2. Christ identified Himself from within that glorious light as "I am Jesus of Nazareth" (Acts 22:8). Since Saul the persecutor had been following the acts and proclamations of the other apostles, he had undoubtedly heard (either first hand or second hand) the bold proclamation of Peter on the day of Pentecost: "Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, BOTH LORD [KURIOS = JEHOVAH] and CHRIST [CHRISTOS = MASCHIYACH]" (Acts 2:36). Therefore the conclusion was inescapable: Jesus of Nazareth, the risen Christ, is no less than the LORD God Almighty! This had already been revealed in Psalms 110:1; 45:6,7; 102:25-27, and many other OT scriptures, and both Peter and Saul saw, by the Holy Spirit, that these verses were applicable to Jesus of Nazareth. They must have flashed through Saul's mind on the road to Damascus, and he was instantly converted. 3. For a Pharisee steeped in the OT, there was no way out. Absolute submission to the Almighty was the only response, ans so Paul "trembling and astonished" that he was in the presence of the Holy One of Israel blurted out " LORD, what wilt thou have me to do"? I trust that by God's grace, each one of us who are the Lord's will humbly submit to Him daily (and every moment of our lives). Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: ollie on December 06, 2003, 07:12:25 AM My apologies also.
I went to verses 22-24 as I thought with all the discussion from everyone on the "going to Arabia" that those verses would probably be about where we were in study. However going back to verses 10-11 is ok. I do think we could skip over the Arabia thing as we have probably already spoken enough on that. I did add a post on that yesterday. I pray it was ok to do so. Title: Galatians Bible Study Post by: Ambassador4Christ on December 06, 2003, 03:27:32 PM Galatians 1:11-12---“ But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.”
Paul’s gospel states that Christ died for all mans sins, and was buried then rose again on the third day. All we have to do today is truly believe this gospel and we are saved. I Corinthians 15:1-4---“Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: Romans 10:9-10---“That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Petro on December 06, 2003, 04:49:15 PM These verses at Gal 1:11-12, are to cap off, verses 8 and 9, whereby Paul stated;
But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed. No comprimises, the gosple which was preached by himself, and the other apostles, was the same they received themselves by revelation of Jesus himself. Anyone who comes forth preaching another, let him be accursed. Can anyone post an example of another gosple? Blessings, Petro Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: ollie on December 07, 2003, 08:14:54 AM Galatians 1:13. For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it:
14. And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers. 15. But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace, 16. To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood: God selected Paul at his birth to be called by His grace. Paul conferred not with flesh and blood. The inference being that it was the Holy Spirit and Jesus Christ. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: 2nd Timothy on December 07, 2003, 09:30:51 AM I believe that Paul had a real understanding of the grace of God. People who's lives make the sharpest contrast in un-belief to belief in Christ seem to realize the real depth of Grace as is evident in Pauls writings. Just for a moment, consider how God used Paul. He single handidly took the Gospel to the edges of the Roman empire. Considering the means of travel in those days, and wild territory he went into, it is almost superhuman...which of course we know was God with him.
Another man who truly understood Gods grace was John Newton. He was the Author of the lyrics for the hymn Amazing Grace. He was an individual who like Saul, was a man of untold suffering before his conversion as a captain of a slave ship. A marble plaque at St. Mary Woolnoth carried the epitaph which Newton himself wrote: JOHN NEWTON, Clerk Once an infidel and libertine A servant of slaves in Africa, Was, by the rich mercy of our Lord and Saviour JESUS CHRIST, restored, pardoned, and appointed to preach the Gospel which he had long laboured to destroy. He ministered, Near sixteen years in Olney, in Bucks, And twenty-eight years in this Church It seems that those who have a deep understanding of Gods grace seem to be the ones that God is able to use for his greatest works. Peace and Grace! Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Petro on December 07, 2003, 11:10:45 AM Very true, We were by nature children of wrath, dead in sin and tresspass, this is exactly what Paul tells us at;
Eph 2 2:1 And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins: 2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: 3 Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. 4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath made us alive together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) Notice that while we were dead in sins, he made us alive together with Christ. Praise the Lord.. Blessings, Petro Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Petro on December 08, 2003, 10:26:05 AM Emphasizing the point we were by nature the children of wrath, Paul writes the following at;
Col 1 12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: 13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: Blessings, Petro Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Petro on December 10, 2003, 08:11:59 PM Gal 1
15 But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace, Does anyone have any idea, what Paul meant by this; "when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb"?? Is he referring to his new birth? and being separated to hear the Gosple which would bring on the new birth?? What is clear is, that he was called by the Lord personally. Both of These, are a great truth, one must be separated to hear the Gosple and called from the dead as Lazarus was called out of the grave by Jesus. Later Paul says he was called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ. (Rom1:1, 1 Cor 1:1) and separated unto the Gosple of God. I am reminded of Acts 13:2, where the Holy spirit said "Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them." Any other thoughts? Blessings Petro Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: 2nd Timothy on December 11, 2003, 09:15:51 AM I can't help but think of my daughters birth. I was overwhelmed by the experience, but after she had been born, the doctor looked over his shoulder and smiled at me, then eased the scissors towards me without words. I knew cutting the embilical chord would begin my daughters life separate from her mother. And I'm glad I had that oportunity.
I'm not sure how or if this relates in any way, but thats what comes to my mind....lol Grace and Peace! Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Reba on December 13, 2003, 08:46:34 PM Gal 1 15 But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace, Does anyone have any idea, what Paul meant by this; "when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb"?? Is he referring to his new birth? and being separated to hear the Gosple which would bring on the new birth?? What is clear is, that he was called by the Lord personally. Both of These, are a great truth, one must be separated to hear the Gosple and called from the dead as Lazarus was called out of the grave by Jesus. Later Paul says he was called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ. (Rom1:1, 1 Cor 1:1) and separated unto the Gosple of God. I am reminded of Acts 13:2, where the Holy spirit said "Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them." Any other thoughts? Blessings Petro Eph 1:4-5 4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: 5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, KJV Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on December 16, 2003, 04:05:35 AM Quote Does anyone have any idea, what Paul meant by this; "when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb"?? I believe this to be a semantic, grammatical understanding, or rather perhaps, potential misunderstanding by the language used. Paul is referring to the work of God whereby He chose Paul, as all who know Him, before the foundations of the world unto salvation. Note the same verse in the ESV perhaps for more clarity: Quote But when he who had set me apart before I was born, and who called me by his grace, Quote What is clear is, that he was called by the Lord personally. Amen! God called Paul, whom He'd already set apart, unto Himself, redeemed and enabled for service. Then God set him apart for a unique ministry. Beautiful! Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on December 16, 2003, 04:16:56 AM Quote I can't help but think of my daughters birth. I was overwhelmed by the experience, but after she had been born, the doctor looked over his shoulder and smiled at me, then eased the scissors towards me without words. I knew cutting the embilical chord would begin my daughters life separate from her mother. And I'm glad I had that oportunity. I'm not sure how or if this relates in any way, but thats what comes to my mind....lol Grace and Peace! Tim, You've brought another memory to me, of my own daughters, when you posted this. Off topic, but hey! I love my girls! ;D My first daughter was born with the surgery that I can't figure out how to spell so I won't embarrass myself! :D But I'll never forget sitting there, holding my wife's hand, and having the doc say "Hey Dad...," looking up and seeing her face for the first time. Shear miracle. Of course, I also remember her crying on the scale, coming over and saying her name only to have her stop crying, open her eyes, and look for that voice. Still makes me tear up. As for the second daughter, she was born normally and that was another miracle to witness. Same doc, same situation as you described. The feeling is undescribable. And like her sister, when she was all crying, and having her grandma, and aunt in the room at the time all crowded around her, all I could do was say her name. Stopped crying and craned her neck to find that voice. Sweet stuff. I'm reminded every time I think of those times that "...children are an heritage of the Lord." The miracle isn't the birth. It's that God would chose a sinner like me to teach them to listen for His voice. Nice post brother. :) Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on December 16, 2003, 04:23:19 AM Quote Eph 1:4-5 4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: 5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, KJV Good thinking sister! I agree. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on December 16, 2003, 04:41:37 AM I'd like to jump ahead here abit, and maybe put into perspective the direction Paul seems to be headed with the text concerning his life before, and after Christ. In verses 23-24, he says:
Quote They only were hearing it said, "He who used to persecute us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy." And they glorified God because of me. Why does Paul bring up his past in Judaism? I believe, in part, to bring about an understanding that he knew what he was taking about. But his focus throughout these first few verses always returns to God. Judaism, as practiced by Paul, focused on a self-righteousness. Paul focused on God. Judiazers wanted to equate works with salvation. Paul focused on God, as the Author, and the Finisher of the faith - God, and God alone through His Son Jesus Christ. Why is this important to understand? Because at the heart of the argument is this "other gospel." Paul's point is that the gospel is God alone can save through Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. ANY deviation is accursed, because to believe anything contrary is to be cursed. Paul continuely brings back to the forefront of our attention that the work is God's, planned before our birth, paid for with the blood of His Son, and procurred by grace through faith. Any thoughts? Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Reba on December 16, 2003, 09:42:25 AM Quote Why is this important to understand? Because at the heart of the argument is this "other gospel." Paul's point is that the gospel is God alone can save through Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. ANY deviation is accursed, because to believe anything contrary is to be cursed. Paul continuely brings back to the forefront of our attention that the work is God's, planned before our birth, paid for with the blood of His Son, and procurred by grace through faith Amen This grandma's heart melts reading the births of your children! :) I love your coffee cup! Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on December 17, 2003, 12:16:27 AM Thank you Sister! I love that cup myself. I fell in love with it when I came across it. Suits me to a tee! :)
Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Reba on December 17, 2003, 10:31:31 AM I sure wish WE could get past the I AM RIGHT YOU ARE WRONG childish stage and continue. We are not going to agree. Studing with those we agree with has its place as does studing with desenting voices.
Seems to me if we are willing to post on the same forum as christians we should be able post in the same thread as christians. State our opposing views and move on. Gal 2:1-4 2:1 Then fourteen years after I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took Titus with me also. 2 And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain. 3 But neither Titus, who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised: 4 And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage: KJV Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: ollie on December 18, 2003, 04:20:48 PM I sure wish WE could get past the I AM RIGHT YOU ARE WRONG childish stage and continue. We are not going to agree. Studing with those we agree with has its place as does studing with desenting voices. The early church had to contend with the judaizers, the pagans, and the godless. Today the church still contends and with what has developed since. Seems to me if we are willing to post on the same forum as christians we should be able post in the same thread as christians. State our opposing views and move on. Gal 2:1-4 2:1 Then fourteen years after I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took Titus with me also. 2 And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain. 3 But neither Titus, who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised: 4 And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage: KJV Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Reba on December 18, 2003, 07:11:23 PM Yikes,
Ollie another fine mess you've gotten us into... Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: ollie on December 18, 2003, 08:16:45 PM ???
The enemies of God have not gone away and they still creep in unawares as false brethren. We donot physically have Paul, but we have his spirit in union with God's Spirit through his words that are safeguarded through the Holy Spirit of God. It is with Paul's and the other Bible writer's, inspired of God, words that we can compare and put to the test their words to see if these brethren be true or false brethren. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Reba on December 18, 2003, 08:31:30 PM Amen Ollie
Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on December 19, 2003, 04:03:22 AM Hmmmmm...I'm at somewhat of a loss here. Reba, what are the childish acts you mentioned? I'm not trying to stir up strife, I'm just trying to not be confused. I live in a house with three females...I strive for nonconfusion! :D I only ask because I can't figure out if Ollie is referring to the passage you posted or the preceeding comment.
Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Reba on December 19, 2003, 11:35:26 AM My remark to Ollie was in reference to Stan Loraul and Oliver Hardy (sp) that is close to a quote Stan always said to Ollie I said that for the youngester here, and just to be silly. :P
Childish here to me is the thinking(posting) we can argue a point to the changing of another mind or to proclaim I AM RIGHT. For my self i did not start out in that mind frame but went there quickly. I will not be any more specific. :-X I agree with Ollie often and again here. :) Three females you have my sympthy, we can be crazy. I haope you have your own bathroom ;D Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: ollie on December 20, 2003, 08:08:50 AM Perhaps this will be redundant if posted before, but it is a good short containment about what Paul's letter is about to the Galatian Christians. It can never hurt anything to refesh our minds on it.
*In Galatians there are a series of important contrasts: - a different type (GSN2087 - heteros) of "gospel" versus the authentic Gospel (compare Gal.1v6) - man's reasoning versus God's revelation - law versus grace; works versus faith - the curse of death versus the blessing of life - condemnation versus exoneration - servants in bondage versus sons in freedom - defeat versus victory - the old covenant versus the new covenant - living in the flesh versus walking in the Spirit - the works of the flesh versus the fruit of the Spirit - falling from grace versus standing firm in grace - the world (self) as the object of boasting versus the cross of Christ. Paul recapitulates by saying that the Christian life is the natural fruit which flows from love (Gal.5v6)." *** ***From: "Morris' Bible Book Synopsis" In Christian love, Ollie Title: Re:Galatians 1:1 Post by: The Crusader on December 27, 2003, 06:43:26 AM Oklahoma Howdy to All, Here's verse 1. If you have ideas about a better format or method, please jump in and discuss it. We can also discuss verses as we go or whatever else anyone may wish to do. ----------------- Galatians 1:1 King James Version Unless Otherwise Noted: Galatians 1:1 Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;) There is a reason why the Apostle Paul starts Galatians in this manner. Paul's Apostleship has been questioned and placed in doubt by men who claim he is simply a student and has no direct knowledge of Christ. Thus, he claims his authority and commission is directly from Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised Jesus Christ from the dead. This false accusation is a portion of the reason many of the people in the churches of Galatia started practicing Jewish customs and the Mosaic Law, a corruption of the pure Gospel of God's Grace that Paul founded the churches in. It is also Biblical for the Apostle Paul to state he was called and chosen by the Risen Jesus Christ and the will of God to serve as an Apostle. See References: 1 Colossians 1:1 Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother, 2 Colossians 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, unto the church of God which is at Corinth, with all the saints which are in all Achaia: Ephesians 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus: There is no doubt that the Apostle Paul received his authority, calling, and ministry directly from Jesus Christ and the Will of God. See References: Act 9:15 But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: Acts 22:14 And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth. Acts 22:15 For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard. Acts 22:16 And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord. Acts 22:17 And it came to pass, that, when I was come again to Jerusalem, even while I prayed in the temple, I was in a trance; Acts 22:18 And saw him saying unto me, Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony concerning me. Acts 22:19 And I said, Lord, they know that I imprisoned and beat in every synagogue them that believed on thee: Acts 22:20 And when the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by, and consenting unto his death, and kept the raiment of them that slew him. Acts 22:21 And he said unto me, Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles. --------------- In Christ, Tom I agree, your off to a good start. The Crusader Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: ollie on December 28, 2003, 05:54:43 PM Shouldn't the study be at the beginning of chapter two in Galatians?
Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on December 29, 2003, 11:48:02 PM Quote Shouldn't the study be at the beginning of chapter two in Galatians? I do believe you are correct! Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: ollie on January 01, 2004, 12:44:19 PM Here are a few verses starting chapter two if someone wants to continue the study and comment. Galatians 2:1. Then fourteen years after I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took Titus with me also. 2. And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain. 3. But neither Titus, who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised: 4. And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage: 5. To whom we gave place by subjection, no, not for an hour; that the truth of the gospel might continue with you. 6. But of these who seemed to be somewhat, (whatsoever they were, it maketh no matter to me: God accepteth no man's person:) for they who seemed to be somewhat in conference added nothing to me: 7. But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter; 8. (For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:) 9. And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision. Title: Galatians Bible Study Post by: Ambassador4Christ on January 01, 2004, 03:56:55 PM See verse 9. And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision.
Do you see it..... Just Asking Who Is Your Apostle? There are 2 choices. Peter and the 11 or Paul. Peter was sent to Israel. Paul was sent to the Gentiles. Peter preached a coming kingdom. Paul preached a leaving body (rapture). Peter preached works for salvation. Paul preached grace for salvation. Peter says keep the law. Paul says you cannot keep the law. Peter says don’t eat catfish. Paul says eat all things. Peter says meet on Saturday. Paul says meet on Sunday. Peter preached you must be water baptized. Paul preached you do not need water baptism. Peter preached sell all you have and God will take care of you. Paul preached if you do not work you do not eat. Peter preached the cross as a curse to Israel. Paul preached the curse removed. Peter never says he is the pattern for the Gentiles. Paul says he is the pattern for the Gentiles. Who is your apostle? Until the rapture of the church – Paul is. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on January 02, 2004, 05:55:47 AM It's such a shame that Peter was lost and died and went to an eternal Hell... ::)
Granted, I sound slightly sarcastic, but Peter preached the same gospel Paul preached. He just preached it to the Jew, where Paul preached it to the Gentile. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: The Crusader on January 02, 2004, 06:08:19 AM It's such a shame that Peter was lost and died and went to an eternal Hell... ::) Granted, I sound slightly sarcastic, but Peter preached the same gospel Paul preached. He just preached it to the Jew, where Paul preached it to the Gentile. Nope The Crusader Title: Re:O Foolish Galatians Post by: The Crusader on January 02, 2004, 06:11:01 AM O Foolish Galatians Galatians 3:1-11 Several things in this passage of scripture that the Bible points out to us! First of all that we are saved bye the Grace of God without any of our works of the flesh, It is from Him and bye Him and unto Him! We are only a recipient of it! We are saved we are saved by faith without any works. Second we are not to live our lives as we are under the Old Covenant but live our life under the New Covenant which demands a life in dependence upon God and not of the law which brings independence from God! 2 Cor. 3:6 Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life. So with these two aspects in mind let us go and look at verses one through two. As we can see from verse one the Galatians were very inconsistent people, they could change their minds and believe one thing one day and another the next! Paul addressed them in chapter one verse six: I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel. The Judaizers had invaded the Galatian church and prompt their law teaching and stressed the necessity of circumcision to gain and maintain salvation! The Galatian people were quick to believe the message that the Judaizers were preaching. Paul pronounced in chapter one verse nine to let them perish or be accursed and chapter five verse ten pronounced judgment on them, and also in chapter five verse twelve Paul would that they were even cut off which troubled them. So bye these passages we can see how much it bothered the Apostle Paul to preach Law to those who have been saved under the Gospel of the Grace of God, the message which he himself had preached in Galatia. He preached Christ crucified, buried and risen! His message was singular! Now pay attention to verse two. Paul asked them, did you receive the Spirit of God bye faith or bye the works of the law? Undoubtedly when Paul was their preaching the Gospel of the Grace of God many, many people put faith in Jesus Christ. Paul here is trying to put them back in remembrance how they were saved. Did you Galatians experience the joy of salvation bye hearing or working? The Galatians knew the answer within their heart. We who are saved right now know that we are saved by faith. Therefore we conclude that a man is justified bye faith without the deeds of the law. Let me ask you a question! What is the supreme motive of God in salvation through Divine Grace? Answer! Ephesians two verse seven: That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. His purpose is to demonstrate before all intelligences, principalities and powers, celestial beings, and terrestrial beings the exceeding riches of His Grace. We will be trophies of grace through all the ages of eternity! So if the supreme motive of God is to reveal His grace then salvation must be bye grace alone, or the eternal purpose of God must fail. For after Ephesians two verse seven Paul makes this declaration in verse eight: For bye grace are ye saved through faith and that not of yourselves it is the gift of God not of works. Lest any man should boast! Grace ceases to be grace if God is compelled to withdraw it in the presence of human failure and sin. Grace cannot be exercised where there is the slightest degree of merit to be recognized. You see Christ came to pay for the sins of the world and He did! Did not John the Baptist cry out in John one verse twenty-nine: Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh way the sin of the world. Jesus Christ paid everyone's sin dept. In the eyes of God everyone has been cleaned up because of the blood that Jesus Christ shed on the cross. But not everyone has had this imputed to him or her, because they have not believed! You can see then how that mankind doesn't go to heaven because he is good and doesn't perish because he is bad! But because of unbelief! " But to him that worketh not but believeth on him that justified the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. So you see how condemnation is no longer the sins which men have committed and which Christ has borne to the cross, but rather because of the person rejecting the provision of the Saviour who bore our sins to the tree! We can see that human sin, human obligation; human merit can not co-exist with the salvation of a man bye the grace of God. Every sin that humanity has committed saved or unsaved or that would ever commit was dealt with in perfect divine judgment by Christ at the cross. Sin does not overcome the blood! It is the blood that overcomes sin. So we know in verse two that we receive the Spirit bye the hearing and responding of the gospel message that God has given mankind in this age! In verse three are ye so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? The Mosaic Law stops every man and shows him what he really is! But they are some who teach that now you who are saved must keep the law and you have power to do this now within yourself! There is a great lack of emphasis upon that which teaches a believer how to live the true Christian life. The truth that the grace of God, the very same grace which brings salvation, also teaches those who are saved how to live! One may say I believe in grace but I do not think it should be emphasized too much because this leads to careless living! They have failed to understand Gods work of grace! Its not the grace which leads to sinning but the grace of God which keeps us from sinning as demonstrated bye the Apostle Paul. Growth in spiritual life only comes bye the grace of God. Second Peter chapter three verse eighteen tells us but grow in grace and in the knowledge of the Mosaic system! No it doesn't! It says grow in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Many believe as the Judaizers at Galatia did, that the Mosaic Law teaches men how to live a godly life! The Mosaic Law was given to Gods earthly people Israel to teach them the conduct he required of them but in giving the law God also with it provided sacrifices as there grounds of mercy when they broke the law! This proves that God knew that the law could not so teach righteousness as to provide godly living! This error that Paul was contending wrote that the law was our schoolmaster to bring us to Christ and when this was done there is no further need for the law as a schoolmaster! Didn't Paul teach us that sin shall not have dominion over you? For ye are not under law but under grace. The law was not expected to produce righteousness in the lives of men but rather self-dependence upon themselves! The law tells men what they must do! At the end of the day a Jew could think in his mind, did I brake any of the commandments today? If so he had to go present a sacrifice but if not he could pat himself on his back and say oh how good I have been today! (Self-righteousness)! So bye this we can see that the law produced independence upon ones self and not upon God! Let us go to verse eleven of chapter three and conclude what Paul said, " But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident for the just shall live by faith." And the law is not of faith but the man that doeth them shall live in them. Under grace God wants every aspect of our lives to be in dependence upon him! The just shall live bye dependence! Dependence upon God includes an understanding of his provision and an attitude of confidence and trust! Ever since the garden man has had the spirit of independence, they plan their lives and act as if though God did not exist! But God wants us to be in dependence into Him for everything! Philip. Four verse nineteen but my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Let us conclude here that which is really implied is a surrendered will to him! For one wise man once said, "Christianity is a series of new beginnings." Each day when we get out of bed we ought the best we know how to surrender to the Holy Spirit bye faith to start our new day! Live in complete and total trust to our dear Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! It's a day bye day responsibility to Christians to be in total dependence to God! If you are not enjoying your Christianity more than you did when you were saved something is wrong! Are you trying to live under a yoke of bondage? Let us keep in mind what Paul was trying to teach the Galatians in chapter three! For he said in chapter two verse sixteen Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by faith of Jesus Christ even we have believed in Jesus Christ that we might be justified by faith of Christ and not by the works of the law: for bye the works of the law shall no flesh be justified I agree, thanks for the good study. I agree with both Tom & Ambassador, and thats about it. The Crusader Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: ollie on January 02, 2004, 06:15:17 AM See verse 9. And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision. Sigh!Do you see it..... Just Asking Who Is Your Apostle? There are 2 choices. Peter and the 11 or Paul. Peter was sent to Israel. Paul was sent to the Gentiles. Peter preached a coming kingdom. Paul preached a leaving body (rapture). Peter preached works for salvation. Paul preached grace for salvation. Peter says keep the law. Paul says you cannot keep the law. Peter says don’t eat catfish. Paul says eat all things. Peter says meet on Saturday. Paul says meet on Sunday. Peter preached you must be water baptized. Paul preached you do not need water baptism. Peter preached sell all you have and God will take care of you. Paul preached if you do not work you do not eat. Peter preached the cross as a curse to Israel. Paul preached the curse removed. Peter never says he is the pattern for the Gentiles. Paul says he is the pattern for the Gentiles. Who is your apostle? Until the rapture of the church – Paul is. Peter and Paul both preached the one gospel of Jesus Christ. Peter to the circumcision, Paul to the heathen. We are told in these first verses of Galatians two that this decision was made. The bible says nothing about any one having a special apostle and just adhering to that apostle's word alone. Peter's word if of Israel, Paul's word if heathen. This is unscriptural and cultish Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on January 02, 2004, 06:16:57 AM Quote O Foolish Galatians Galatians 3:1-11 Several things in this passage of scripture that the Bible points out to us! First of all that we are saved bye the Grace of God without any of our works of the flesh, It is from Him and bye Him and unto Him! We are only a recipient of it! We are saved we are saved by faith without any works. Second we are not to live our lives as we are under the Old Covenant but live our life under the New Covenant which demands a life in dependence upon God and not of the law which brings independence from God! 2 Cor. 3:6 Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life. So with these two aspects in mind let us go and look at verses one through two. As we can see from verse one the Galatians were very inconsistent people, they could change their minds and believe one thing one day and another the next! Paul addressed them in chapter one verse six: I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel. The Judaizers had invaded the Galatian church and prompt their law teaching and stressed the necessity of circumcision to gain and maintain salvation! The Galatian people were quick to believe the message that the Judaizers were preaching. Paul pronounced in chapter one verse nine to let them perish or be accursed and chapter five verse ten pronounced judgment on them, and also in chapter five verse twelve Paul would that they were even cut off which troubled them. So bye these passages we can see how much it bothered the Apostle Paul to preach Law to those who have been saved under the Gospel of the Grace of God, the message which he himself had preached in Galatia. He preached Christ crucified, buried and risen! His message was singular! Now pay attention to verse two. Paul asked them, did you receive the Spirit of God bye faith or bye the works of the law? Undoubtedly when Paul was their preaching the Gospel of the Grace of God many, many people put faith in Jesus Christ. Paul here is trying to put them back in remembrance how they were saved. Did you Galatians experience the joy of salvation bye hearing or working? The Galatians knew the answer within their heart. We who are saved right now know that we are saved by faith. Therefore we conclude that a man is justified bye faith without the deeds of the law. Let me ask you a question! What is the supreme motive of God in salvation through Divine Grace? Answer! Ephesians two verse seven: That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. His purpose is to demonstrate before all intelligences, principalities and powers, celestial beings, and terrestrial beings the exceeding riches of His Grace. We will be trophies of grace through all the ages of eternity! So if the supreme motive of God is to reveal His grace then salvation must be bye grace alone, or the eternal purpose of God must fail. For after Ephesians two verse seven Paul makes this declaration in verse eight: For bye grace are ye saved through faith and that not of yourselves it is the gift of God not of works. Lest any man should boast! Grace ceases to be grace if God is compelled to withdraw it in the presence of human failure and sin. Grace cannot be exercised where there is the slightest degree of merit to be recognized. You see Christ came to pay for the sins of the world and He did! Did not John the Baptist cry out in John one verse twenty-nine: Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh way the sin of the world. Jesus Christ paid everyone's sin dept. In the eyes of God everyone has been cleaned up because of the blood that Jesus Christ shed on the cross. But not everyone has had this imputed to him or her, because they have not believed! You can see then how that mankind doesn't go to heaven because he is good and doesn't perish because he is bad! But because of unbelief! " But to him that worketh not but believeth on him that justified the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. So you see how condemnation is no longer the sins which men have committed and which Christ has borne to the cross, but rather because of the person rejecting the provision of the Saviour who bore our sins to the tree! We can see that human sin, human obligation; human merit can not co-exist with the salvation of a man bye the grace of God. Every sin that humanity has committed saved or unsaved or that would ever commit was dealt with in perfect divine judgment by Christ at the cross. Sin does not overcome the blood! It is the blood that overcomes sin. So we know in verse two that we receive the Spirit bye the hearing and responding of the gospel message that God has given mankind in this age! In verse three are ye so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? The Mosaic Law stops every man and shows him what he really is! But they are some who teach that now you who are saved must keep the law and you have power to do this now within yourself! There is a great lack of emphasis upon that which teaches a believer how to live the true Christian life. The truth that the grace of God, the very same grace which brings salvation, also teaches those who are saved how to live! One may say I believe in grace but I do not think it should be emphasized too much because this leads to careless living! They have failed to understand Gods work of grace! Its not the grace which leads to sinning but the grace of God which keeps us from sinning as demonstrated bye the Apostle Paul. Growth in spiritual life only comes bye the grace of God. Second Peter chapter three verse eighteen tells us but grow in grace and in the knowledge of the Mosaic system! No it doesn't! It says grow in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Many believe as the Judaizers at Galatia did, that the Mosaic Law teaches men how to live a godly life! The Mosaic Law was given to Gods earthly people Israel to teach them the conduct he required of them but in giving the law God also with it provided sacrifices as there grounds of mercy when they broke the law! This proves that God knew that the law could not so teach righteousness as to provide godly living! This error that Paul was contending wrote that the law was our schoolmaster to bring us to Christ and when this was done there is no further need for the law as a schoolmaster! Amen! NO Law!!![/b] As Paul put it..."All things are lawful unto me..." We are not bound by any law. Christ's sacrifice ushered out the Law in ushered in Grace. :) Quote Didn't Paul teach us that sin shall not have dominion over you? For ye are not under law but under grace. The law was not expected to produce righteousness in the lives of men but rather self-dependence upon themselves! The law tells men what they must do! At the end of the day a Jew could think in his mind, did I brake any of the commandments today? If so he had to go present a sacrifice but if not he could pat himself on his back and say oh how good I have been today! (Self-righteousness)! So bye this we can see that the law produced independence upon ones self and not upon God! I have to disagree here. The Law was never to show man how that he might depend upon himself. It was, as you pointed out earlier, to show man for what he really is - a sinner in need of God's grace. It was also to show the cost of sin. Blood. Later on in time, the Pharisees came along and attributed their own self righteousness based upon the Law. I like how Jesus points out their error: Quote Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. Matthew 5:27-28 It's the heart, not the action that makes the difference. They may have not actually committed the adultery, or murder as He went on to illustrate, but the intent was in their hearts. Their pompous self righteousness was "as filthy rags." I agree with the Pharisaiacal assessment of self righteousness concerning the Law, but we must remember that the Law was "written for our ensample." That is, that we might see the need of our Savior, the sufficiency of His sacrifice (as all other sacrifices, though numerous, were insufficient), the sin we have ("What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet."), and the grace of God that delivers us from that sin, completely. Once, for all. God's work. Man's benefit. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Allinall on January 02, 2004, 06:19:24 AM Quote It's such a shame that Peter was lost and died and went to an eternal Hell... Granted, I sound slightly sarcastic, but Peter preached the same gospel Paul preached. He just preached it to the Jew, where Paul preached it to the Gentile. Nope The Crusader So Peter preached a works based salvation that was, obviously, unable to save anyone? Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: The Crusader on January 02, 2004, 07:48:32 AM Quote It's such a shame that Peter was lost and died and went to an eternal Hell... Granted, I sound slightly sarcastic, but Peter preached the same gospel Paul preached. He just preached it to the Jew, where Paul preached it to the Gentile. Nope The Crusader So Peter preached a works based salvation that was, obviously, unable to save anyone? What Peter knew about the Gospel of the Grace of God, Paul taught him. The Crusader Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Reba on January 03, 2004, 12:58:50 PM I had the strange idea that Peter was a disciple of Christ.
Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: ollie on January 03, 2004, 03:42:48 PM Paul taught Peter??? Paul scolded and repremanded Peter, but the Holy Spirit taught both apostles. They were both taught the same, their spirits in unison with God's Holy Spirit.
The Holy Spirit was given to Peter and all the apostles to bring into remembrance and teach the doctrines of Christ. See Acts:2 Jesus Christ to His apostles: John 14:25. These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. 26. But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. Some of Peter's teachings: Acts10:34. Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: 35. But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. 36. The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:) 37. That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; 38. How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. 39. And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree: 40. Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; 41. Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. 42. And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead. 43. To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins. Acts 11:2. And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision contended with him, 3. Saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them. 4. But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying, 5. I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came even to me: 6. Upon the which when I had fastened mine eyes, I considered, and saw fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. 7. And I heard a voice saying unto me, Arise, Peter; slay and eat. 8. But I said, Not so, Lord: for nothing common or unclean hath at any time entered into my mouth. 9. But the voice answered me again from heaven, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common. 10. And this was done three times: and all were drawn up again into heaven. 11. And, behold, immediately there were three men already come unto the house where I was, sent from Caesarea unto me. 12. And the spirit bade me go with them, nothing doubting. Moreover these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered into the man's house: 13. And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter; 14. Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved. 15. And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning. 16. Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost. 17. Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God? We should be studying Galatians chapter two. It would be very pleasant and nice if it could be done without the epistle being rewritten and interpreted to say things that aren't there. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Ambassador4Christ on January 03, 2004, 03:53:46 PM I had the strange idea that Peter was a disciple of Christ. How old are you? I feel like I am in Sunday School, when you post your bright replys. ;D Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Ambassador4Christ on January 03, 2004, 03:56:49 PM Quote Ollie: We should be studying Galatians chapter two. It would be very pleasant and nice if it could be done without the epistle being rewritten and interpreted to say things that aren't there.
Your post is from the Pit of hell ;D Galatians 4:16 Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Reba on January 03, 2004, 04:28:02 PM The truth is Paul did his best to teach NOT to do what some here have done.
1 Cor 12:13-24 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. 14 For the body is not one member, but many. 15 If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? 16 And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? 17 If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? 18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. 19 And if they were all one member, where were the body? 20 But now are they many members, yet but one body. 21 And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. 22 Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: 23 And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness. 24 For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked: KJV 1 Cor 1:12-14 12 Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. 13 Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul? 14 I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius; KJV Any one here Crispus or Gaius? How can one claim to be a student of Paul and disreguard his teachings. For Petes sake ( no pun intended) if Paul is YOUR Apostle follow his teachings. A4Paul, you keep making this personal consider your posts unread by me. I am 57 that makes me old enough to know God doesnt need a used car sales banner to teach HIS Word. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: ollie on January 03, 2004, 04:58:35 PM Quote Ollie: We should be studying Galatians chapter two. It would be very pleasant and nice if it could be done without the epistle being rewritten and interpreted to say things that aren't there. Galatians 4:16 Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth?Your post is from the Pit of hell ;D Galatians 4:16 Who said anything about an enemy, just because you are unscriptural and not of the Holy Spirit's revealed truth of God? Reba is correct, You should follow the teachings of your apostle Paul. Paul knows the way, go there! Galatians 6:15. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. "Your post is from the Pit of hell ;D" And the book, chapter, verse, is ?? Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on January 03, 2004, 05:07:06 PM Quote Ollie: We should be studying Galatians chapter two. It would be very pleasant and nice if it could be done without the epistle being rewritten and interpreted to say things that aren't there. Your post is from the Pit of hell ;D Galatians 4:16 Oklahoma Howdy to Ambassador4Christ, 99% of Brother Ollie's post was nothing but Scripture, so his post could not be from the Pit of hell unless you wish to label precious portions of the Holy Bible as hell. Brother, do you honestly believe that your post did anything to honor or please Christ? Love In Christ, Tom Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Ambassador4Christ on January 03, 2004, 06:37:34 PM The truth is Paul did his best to teach NOT to do what some here have done. 1 Cor 12:13-24 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. 14 For the body is not one member, but many. 15 If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? 16 And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? 17 If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? 18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. 19 And if they were all one member, where were the body? 20 But now are they many members, yet but one body. 21 And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. 22 Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: 23 And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness. 24 For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked: KJV 1 Cor 1:12-14 12 Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. 13 Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul? 14 I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius; KJV Any one here Crispus or Gaius? How can one claim to be a student of Paul and disreguard his teachings. For Petes sake ( no pun intended) if Paul is YOUR Apostle follow his teachings. A4Paul, you keep making this personal consider your posts unread by me. I am 57 that makes me old enough to know God doesnt need a used car sales banner to teach HIS Word. ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ ;D Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Ambassador4Christ on January 03, 2004, 06:40:14 PM Quote Ollie: We should be studying Galatians chapter two. It would be very pleasant and nice if it could be done without the epistle being rewritten and interpreted to say things that aren't there. Your post is from the Pit of hell ;D Galatians 4:16 Oklahoma Howdy to Ambassador4Christ, 99% of Brother Ollie's post was nothing but Scripture, so his post could not be from the Pit of hell unless you wish to label precious portions of the Holy Bible as hell. Brother, do you honestly believe that your post did anything to honor or please Christ? Love In Christ, Tom Just what I posted: Quote Ollie: We should be studying Galatians chapter two. It would be very pleasant and nice if it could be done without the epistle being rewritten and interpreted to say things that aren't there. And like I said it came from the Pit of Hell. Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: Ambassador4Christ on January 03, 2004, 06:41:57 PM O Foolish Galatians
Galatians 3:1-11 Several things in this passage of scripture that the Bible points out to us! First of all that we are saved bye the Grace of God without any of our works of the flesh, It is from Him and bye Him and unto Him! We are only a recipient of it! We are saved we are saved by faith without any works. Second we are not to live our lives as we are under the Old Covenant but live our life under the New Covenant which demands a life in dependence upon God and not of the law which brings independence from God! 2 Cor. 3:6 Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life. So with these two aspects in mind let us go and look at verses one through two. As we can see from verse one the Galatians were very inconsistent people, they could change their minds and believe one thing one day and another the next! Paul addressed them in chapter one verse six: I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel. The Judaizers had invaded the Galatian church and prompt their law teaching and stressed the necessity of circumcision to gain and maintain salvation! The Galatian people were quick to believe the message that the Judaizers were preaching. Paul pronounced in chapter one verse nine to let them perish or be accursed and chapter five verse ten pronounced judgment on them, and also in chapter five verse twelve Paul would that they were even cut off which troubled them. So bye these passages we can see how much it bothered the Apostle Paul to preach Law to those who have been saved under the Gospel of the Grace of God, the message which he himself had preached in Galatia. He preached Christ crucified, buried and risen! His message was singular! Now pay attention to verse two. Paul asked them, did you receive the Spirit of God bye faith or bye the works of the law? Undoubtedly when Paul was their preaching the Gospel of the Grace of God many, many people put faith in Jesus Christ. Paul here is trying to put them back in remembrance how they were saved. Did you Galatians experience the joy of salvation bye hearing or working? The Galatians knew the answer within their heart. We who are saved right now know that we are saved by faith. Therefore we conclude that a man is justified bye faith without the deeds of the law. Let me ask you a question! What is the supreme motive of God in salvation through Divine Grace? Answer! Ephesians two verse seven: That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. His purpose is to demonstrate before all intelligences, principalities and powers, celestial beings, and terrestrial beings the exceeding riches of His Grace. We will be trophies of grace through all the ages of eternity! So if the supreme motive of God is to reveal His grace then salvation must be bye grace alone, or the eternal purpose of God must fail. For after Ephesians two verse seven Paul makes this declaration in verse eight: For bye grace are ye saved through faith and that not of yourselves it is the gift of God not of works. Lest any man should boast! Grace ceases to be grace if God is compelled to withdraw it in the presence of human failure and sin. Grace cannot be exercised where there is the slightest degree of merit to be recognized. You see Christ came to pay for the sins of the world and He did! Did not John the Baptist cry out in John one verse twenty-nine: Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh way the sin of the world. Jesus Christ paid everyone's sin dept. In the eyes of God everyone has been cleaned up because of the blood that Jesus Christ shed on the cross. But not everyone has had this imputed to him or her, because they have not believed! You can see then how that mankind doesn't go to heaven because he is good and doesn't perish because he is bad! But because of unbelief! " But to him that worketh not but believeth on him that justified the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. So you see how condemnation is no longer the sins which men have committed and which Christ has borne to the cross, but rather because of the person rejecting the provision of the Saviour who bore our sins to the tree! We can see that human sin, human obligation; human merit can not co-exist with the salvation of a man bye the grace of God. Every sin that humanity has committed saved or unsaved or that would ever commit was dealt with in perfect divine judgment by Christ at the cross. Sin does not overcome the blood! It is the blood that overcomes sin. So we know in verse two that we receive the Spirit bye the hearing and responding of the gospel message that God has given mankind in this age! In verse three are ye so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? The Mosaic Law stops every man and shows him what he really is! But they are some who teach that now you who are saved must keep the law and you have power to do this now within yourself! There is a great lack of emphasis upon that which teaches a believer how to live the true Christian life. The truth that the grace of God, the very same grace which brings salvation, also teaches those who are saved how to live! One may say I believe in grace but I do not think it should be emphasized too much because this leads to careless living! They have failed to understand Gods work of grace! Its not the grace which leads to sinning but the grace of God which keeps us from sinning as demonstrated bye the Apostle Paul. Growth in spiritual life only comes bye the grace of God. Second Peter chapter three verse eighteen tells us but grow in grace and in the knowledge of the Mosaic system! No it doesn't! It says grow in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Many believe as the Judaizers at Galatia did, that the Mosaic Law teaches men how to live a godly life! The Mosaic Law was given to Gods earthly people Israel to teach them the conduct he required of them but in giving the law God also with it provided sacrifices as there grounds of mercy when they broke the law! This proves that God knew that the law could not so teach righteousness as to provide godly living! This error that Paul was contending wrote that the law was our schoolmaster to bring us to Christ and when this was done there is no further need for the law as a schoolmaster! Didn't Paul teach us that sin shall not have dominion over you? For ye are not under law but under grace. The law was not expected to produce righteousness in the lives of men but rather self-dependence upon themselves! The law tells men what they must do! At the end of the day a Jew could think in his mind, did I brake any of the commandments today? If so he had to go present a sacrifice but if not he could pat himself on his back and say oh how good I have been today! (Self-righteousness)! So bye this we can see that the law produced independence upon ones self and not upon God! Let us go to verse eleven of chapter three and conclude what Paul said, " But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident for the just shall live by faith." And the law is not of faith but the man that doeth them shall live in them. Under grace God wants every aspect of our lives to be in dependence upon him! The just shall live bye dependence! Dependence upon God includes an understanding of his provision and an attitude of confidence and trust! Ever since the garden man has had the spirit of independence, they plan their lives and act as if though God did not exist! But God wants us to be in dependence into Him for everything! Philip. Four verse nineteen but my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Let us conclude here that which is really implied is a surrendered will to him! For one wise man once said, "Christianity is a series of new beginnings." Each day when we get out of bed we ought the best we know how to surrender to the Holy Spirit bye faith to start our new day! Live in complete and total trust to our dear Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! It's a day bye day responsibility to Christians to be in total dependence to God! If you are not enjoying your Christianity more than you did when you were saved something is wrong! Are you trying to live under a yoke of bondage? Let us keep in mind what Paul was trying to teach the Galatians in chapter three! For he said in chapter two verse sixteen Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by faith of Jesus Christ even we have believed in Jesus Christ that we might be justified by faith of Christ and not by the works of the law: for bye the works of the law shall no flesh be justified Title: Re:Galatians Bible Study Post by: nChrist on January 03, 2004, 07:07:48 PM Oklahoma Howdy to All,
I started this thread, and I feel badly about how it turned out. I don't believe God is pleased with this, so the thread is closed. I locked the thread as a USER who started the thread, not as a moderator. Please feel free to open another thread. I would simply ask that Christ be honored and there be some semblance of Christian Love. Love In Christ, Tom |