Agreeing to Love, 21 January 2018
Romans 14:1-23
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Reading for January 22-28
Reading this week: Freedom in Galatians
Paul’s letter to the Galatian church is a wonderful look into his concern for and God’s plan for Christian freedom. As you read Galatians, watch for encouragement for both the weak and the strong believers there. What are the disciplines of the mature believer?
Monday: Galatians 1:1-24, The Gospel
Paul sees legalism as a different gospel. What is the center of the true gospel (see 1:3-4), and what are the signs of the different gospel? How did you first receive this true gospel?
Tuesday: Galatians 2:1-21, The cost of freedom
How did Titus’ decision regarding the “disputable matter” of circumcision reflect his freedom? What cost have you paid in order to “go to the Gentiles”?
Wednesday: Galatians 3:1-25, The priority of faith
Abraham is Paul’s ultimate picture of faith. How has Abraham’s faith been a model for you? When were you fully away of the power of God’s gracious promises?
Thursday: Galatians 3:26-4:20, Sons and Slaves
Daughters and sons have a very special place in God’s economy of grace. How has the reality of being a child of God made your freedom in Christ easier to accept fully?
Friday: Galatians 4:21-5:15, Law vs. Freedom
Paul wonderfully sees no tension between standing firm in one’s freedom and expressing one’s faith in love. When have you been able to express to your neighbor both your freedom and your love?
Saturday: Galatians 5:16-26, Live by the Spirit
Yes, the final check on the misuse of my freedom is the work of the Holy Spirit in my life. How has the fruit of the Spirit (it is a singular fruit!) helped you finish the job that your freedom in Christ began?
Sunday: Galatians 6:1-18, What counts is New Creation
Yes, this is an extra day of reading, but Paul’s final words to too good to miss. Verses 14-15 are the theme of the mature believer. How has New Creation become real in your life?