REBUKE FOR REVERTING TO LEGALISM SEARCH THE SCRIPTURES LESSON 698: REBUKE FOR REVERTING TO LEGALISM

RECAP OF OUR LAST STUDY From our last study, entitled “Justification and righteousness by faith”, we learnt that we should hold the gospel truth steadfastly and not allow false doctrine or support false teachers. Correction should be received in the spirit of meekness without resentment or contention. God’s free grace transforms lives.

TODAY’S STUDY: LESSON 698: REBUKE FOR REVERTING TO LEGALISM MEMORY VERSE: “Are ye so foolish? Having begun in the spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?” (Galatians 3:3). TEXT: Galatians 3:1-29. The study of today is divided into three parts: Reproof for reverting to legalism. Promise of justification by faith. Purpose of the law explained.

SUMMARY Reproof for reverting to legalism (Galatians 3:1-5): Paul was disappointed that the Galatian believers followed strange doctrines. To escape falsehood, we must be strong spiritually and search the scriptures. We must shun every form of legalism and worship the Lord in spirit and truth. Promise of justification by faith (Galatians 3:6-18) Constant walk with God gives us liberty to enjoy His redemptive power. Through faith in Christ, we are partakers of inheritance of saints in Christ. Purpose of the law explained (Galatians 3:19-29) The purpose of the law is to create the knowledge of sin, convince us of the need for a Saviour and to convict the world of sin. Walking by faith makes us to avoid legalism and lean on God’s grace.

DISCUSSION

QUESTION 1 Why was apostle Paul disappointed in the Galatian Christians? Galatians 3:1

QUESTION 2 Mention some forms of legalism that are common today: Galatians 4:9,10 Matthew 6:16-18 Mark 7:6-8

QUESTION 3 What should be the attitude of true Christians to these rules? John 4:24 Galatians 5:1 Joel 2:13

QUESTION 4 What should be our emphasis in our walk with the Lord? Ephesians 2:8,9 Galatians 2:16 2 Corinthian 5:7

QUESTION 5 What is the attitude that the Lord demands from those that worship him? John 4:23,24 1 Samuel 15:22 Psalm51:17

QUESTION 6 What are some reasons why we should walk by faith? Ephesians 6:16 1 Corinthians 6:9,10

CONCLUSION We overcome error and false teachers through understanding of God’s word. We are justified by faith, not by our own merit or works. And our walk with God is reflected in holy living without any legalism or boasting.