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Galatians 3:23–4:31

Living in the New Way of Faith, Part 2: Privilege, Plea, and Promise (Galatians 3:23–4:31)

Phil Gons · October 27, 2019 · Spring Creek Bible Church · 57m

From Galatians

0:00
57:27

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For families

Ages Teens

This is a careful, scholarly sermon on Galatians 3:23–4:31 that traces Paul’s argument about the shift from law to faith, from slavery to freedom, from the old covenant to the new. The preacher helps listeners see how the law was temporary and preparatory, and how believers—both Jewish and Gentile—are now children of God and heirs of Abraham’s promises through Christ. It’s rich material that rewards attention and reflection.

Worth knowing: The sermon includes a brief reference to Kenneth Copeland’s prosperity gospel teaching as a cautionary example of misinterpreting Scripture.

Character of GodFaith & trustGospel

Talk about it together (5 questions)
  1. Paul says the law was like a ‘guardian’ or ‘prison guard’ that held us in custody until Christ came. What do you think he means by that? Why would the law be temporary instead of permanent?
  2. The sermon talks about being ‘children of God’ and ‘heirs of the promises.’ What do you think it means to be an heir? What inheritance is Paul talking about?
  3. Paul seems to say that trying to follow the Old Testament law after Christ came is like going back to slavery. Why would following God’s law be considered slavery rather than obedience?
  4. The preacher uses the story of Abraham’s two sons (Ishmael and Isaac) to show the difference between the old and new covenants. What do you think Hagar and Sarah represent in Paul’s argument?
  5. How does understanding that God’s plan has ‘progressed’ and ‘climaxed in Christ’ change the way you read the Old Testament?

Used by permission of Phil Gons — philgons.com