Introduction

Explain the likely arrival of the Judaizers in Galatia. What were they hoping to achieve? Did they receive a warm welcome? Why were the Galatians taken in by their message? Why was the apostle Paul surprised and astonished?

One true gospel

• Explain: why does Paul call for the distorters (Judaizers) to be cursed?

• Explain: is the Christian faith a matter of choice, like with a sports team?

• Explain: why is Paul’s curse entirely appropriate? How does it demonstrate his commitment to Jesus Christ?

• Explain: what will happen if the Galatians are not warned?

Preserve, protect, and proclaim

• Explain/Apply: how can a church confession help in preserving and protecting the gospel?

• Explain/Apply: who should be allowed to preach in the pulpit? Is it a good idea for someone to be trained for ministry before they are given permission to preach? How can we be wise about who we listen to?

• Explain/Apply: how can we help others to find and join a true church? What can we do to bring the true gospel to known false teachers? What can and should we be praying?

Concluding prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank you that you revealed the gospel to Paul and that he clearly communicated the gospel in his letters and preaching. Thank you that through the apostles and their written testimony, we not only have a record of what Jesus did but also the interpretation and explanation of his person and work. Help us to listen carefully to what you teach us through them, that we might hold fast to Christ as our only Saviour and not look to our works to make us right in your sight.

Naturally, Lord, we know that we are tempted to look to our performance rather than Christ. Therefore, please guard our hearts and minds by your Spirit. Please also change us, that we might have the same passion for your truth which burned in the veins of Paul. We confess that the spirit of this world has had a big influence on us. In the way we think and talk, we are reluctant to see things as black and white. We do not fully realize the depths of our sin or the treasure of gospel. Change us for your glory and the good of your church we pray, in Jesus’ name, Amen.