Galatians Bible Study, Pt. 22: Clearly No One Is Justified By The Law

Class #22:  In Galatians 3:11-12, St. Paul cites two Scripture passages, one gospel and one law.  Surprisingly both law and gospel speak of the promise of giving life.  The gospel in Habakkuk 2:4 shows that God has always intended to declare a sinner righteous and give eternal life through faith.  The law in Leviticus 18:5 reveals that the person who has completed the works of the law perfectly will have life.  St. Paul draws the conclusion that no one is justified by the law, but he doesn’t attempt to prove it.  Though both the law and gospel offer life, the law is conditioned by man’s perfect obedience.  No need to prove the law, just send it out.  The law will do its work—it always accuses.  The law is not of faith.  Those who rely upon the law for justification are under the curse of the law.  Next week we hear that Christ has redeemed us from the curse.  We are justified through faith in Him.

Overhead: Galatians Class 22 Overhead
Handout: Page 2 of Galatians Bible Study Chapter 3 6-9

Galatians Bible Study, Pt. 15: When Adiaphora is not Adiaphora

Class #15:  Concerning those things which are neither commanded nor forbidden by the Scriptures (called adiaphora), we are free to do or not do. However, when St. Peter by his pretense began to compel the Gentiles to keep the ceremonial food laws in order to be saved(2:14), the principle doctrine of Christianity was at stake.  St. Paul rightfully objected.  St. Peter knew that a man was saved by grace through faith and apart from works, but out of fear(2:12) he did not behave in keeping with the truth of the Gospel.

We must always distinguish between the law and the gospel.  The law is rightly used to curb the sinful nature, to show us our sins, and to guide the thankful heart as how to please God.  However, when it comes to justification (being declared righteous), the law has no place.  The conscience trusts in the Gospel message alone for salvation.

Overhead:Galatians Class 15 Overhead

Galatians Bible Study Class #16 will not be published until January 3.