I           Introduction

Give a brief summary of the gospel. Reflect on how we can be quick to understand the gospel in an intellectual sense, whilst continuing to live as if we are made right with God through our own obedience.

Mention how Paul was aware of this reality and that it prompted him to give the Galatians (and us) three proofs for justification by faith.

II          Justification by faith: The coming of the Spirit and God’s dealings with Abraham

A          Explain: When did the Spirit work powerfully in the hearts of God’s people so that they came to faith in Jesus Christ?

B          Explain: What does the coming of the Spirit prove?

C          Explain: Why did the Galatians think they needed works of the flesh to ensure God’s favour?

D          Explain: Can we trust in Christ and our works of obedience?

E          Explain: How does God’s dealings with Abraham testify to justification by faith?

E          Explain: What promise did Abraham believe? What does he show about God’s plan for salvation?

F          Explain: There is only one people of God, the people of faith. Whether you lived in the time of the old covenant or the new covenant, salvation has always and only been through faith in the Messiah.

III         The demands of the law and means of grace

A          Explain: What did the Mosaic law reveal about what is required to live in God’s presence?

B          Explain: Why can no one obey God’s law perfectly?

C          Explain: What is the curse we deserve for disobedience? How did Christ free us from this curse?

D          Explain: What are the gifts that Christ has won for us?

E          Explain/Apply: What is the source of our confidence before God? Why do we want to pursue good works as Christians?

F          Explain/Apply: Who is the one that changes our desires to make us more and more like Jesus? How does the Spirit do this work (talk about the means of grace)?

Concluding prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank you that we are justified in your sight through faith in your Son. Thank you that he came to do the work which we could not do and bear the curse of the law in our stead. Thank you also for giving us your Spirit, that he united us to Christ when he worked a true faith in our hearts, that he is at work in us now, putting to death our old nature and renewing us in the image of your Son.

Please do not let us look for confidence or assurance in our obedience and commitment to your commands. May we pursue the good works you have prepared for us in response to your grace and for the sake of your glory, ever trusting only in Christ.

We ask this in Jesus’ name, Amen.