As we read through the section in the book of Acts about Paul’s third missionary trip, we learned that the region was far from a peaceful Christian oasis. It was a populous area that was essentially a melting pot. The area was a prime seaport and economic center, much like what Corinth was like in…
As we prepare to go through the book of Ephesians we attempt to put into context the cultural and economic status of Ephesus at the time Paul wrote the letter, but it was not always a Christian-centered region. If we recall, last week we noticed how the letter of Ephesians is unlike other letters in…
We begin our travel through the book of Ephesians and we take this session to learn about the setting and background and the special characteristics of the book of Ephesians. What are some of the basics that you know about the book of Ephesians? The origin The book written by the Apostle Paul around 61-62AD,…
Bear and Share the Burdens 1Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted. 2Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. 3For if anyone thinks himself to be something, when he…
This week we learn to continue to walk in God’s Liberty and not to allow legalism to hinder our journey. 1Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. 2Behold, I Paul say unto you, that if ye be circumcised, Christ shall…
This week we learn some foundational truth about being a Christian, about being adopted into a blessed family. The struggles with the law and the benefits of the Old Testament and its use. 1What I am saying is that as long as an heir is underage, he is no different from a slave, although he…
The sixty verses that make up Galatians 3 and 4 are some of the strongest writing that Paul ever penned. But, after all, he was in a battle! He was out to prove that salvation is by grace alone, and not by the works of the Law. His opponents had used every possible means to…
Last week we learned about Paul’s passion for sharing the Gospel with the Gentiles (non-Jews) was acknowledged and accepted. There was a recognition that Paul’s passion to serve the Gentiles was authentic and from God. The same compassion and commitment that Peter had for the Jewish people. The unresolved issue and challenge was what happens…
After Paul’s greetings to the people of Galatia, Paul describes a meeting that happen. This week we begin to realize why this meeting was important, not only to the people involved in the meeting, but to the Galatians as well. 1Then after fourteen years I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, taking Titus along…
As we continue our sessions in the book of Galatians, we continue to learn more about the young Christians in Asia Minor and the broken-hearted Apostle Paul. Last session we read through some of the other letter introductions that Paul wrote, and this session we begin with a classic, the first letter to the Thessalonian…