Thesis: Since we have a knowledge of right and wrong naturally written in our hearts, we easily strive in "religion" to add a list of "do's" we must adhere to in order to be godly and spiritual. But Paul reminds us that God's grace alone is what earns us a right standing with him.
Paul addresses the Galatian church with a heart to establish an understanding of grace over works through a:
1. PASSIONATE APPEAL (v. 12) * encourages as brother and partner * adding to grace, nullifies grace * works need to be perfect to work * urges unity in Christ's work
2. KIND REMINDER OF TRUTH (v. 12-16) * any self-righteousness is failure * adhere to culture until it violates Bible * law puffs up, righteousness outside of self (in Christ) leads to humility * law detracts from gospel evangelism * focus on law/works = disappointment in everyone else because all fail * Rejoicing in heaven occurs when someone repents, not when they do righteousness
3. HONEST WARNING (v. 17) * Ministry can have ill-based motives * Religious Power Freaks = Gospel enemies * ministry should always benefit others and exalt Christ
4. PARENTAL EXPRESSION (v. 19-20) * confronts with endearment * desires believers to mature in faith * wants gospel-centered thinking church
CONCLUSION: In all areas of Christian ministry, we must love others from a gospel based perspective. We minister, proclaim, evangelize and disciple from grace -- to grace, desiring others to embrace Christ and his offer of grace.
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