In the first two chapters of Galatians, Paul argues for the gospel from a personal point of view. In chapter 3 he turns to the Old Testament to prove his point, expounding on an ancient promise given to the father of the Jewish nation.

Talking Points:

  • The gospel of grace (salvation = faith + nothing) was not a divine afterthought. God gave Abraham a promise long before he gave Moses the law. Genesis 12:2-3, Galatians 3:17
  • Abraham was justified back then the same way we are today: by faith. He couldn’t have worked for his salvation, because God hadn’t even given the law yet! Genesis 15:2,5-6, Galatians 3:6-7
  • God’s ancient promise to Abraham belongs to the nations, not just to Israel. That promised blessing is the Holy Spirit. Jesus unlocked this blessing through the cross. Galatians 3:14, Ephesians 1:14

See also: A Deep Dive on the Covenant between God and Man

 

Discussion:
  1. Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
  2. Have you been promised a future inheritance or blessing (financial, job, property) from a family member or friend? How long are you willing to wait for it to come to fruition?
  3. Read Genesis 12:2-3. Identify the blessings God promised to Abraham. What do you think Abraham thought God meant when he said all families would be blessed through him?
  4. Read Galatians 3:17. Why did elevating the law over everything violate God’s promises in Genesis 12?
  5. Read Genesis 15:1-6. Abraham showed great faith by trusting in God’s future promises. How does Abraham’s faith challenge you?
  6. Read Galatians 3:6-7. What is Paul saying in these verses? Why would this be controversial to Jews?
  7. Read Ezekiel 36:25-27, Galatians 3:14 and Ephesians 1:13-14. According to Ezekiel, what does the Holy Spirit do for us? Why is the Holy Spirit the blessing for all people?
  8. Read Acts 2:32-41. How did the Holy Spirit show up that day? How did Peter connect the promises in Genesis to the events of that day? How did the people respond?
  9. How has the Holy Spirit’s work in you been a blessing in your life?
  10. Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
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