Let us learn about christ from galatians (2 peter 3:18)
Introduction:
1. As Peter concluded his 2nd letter, he instructed Christians to grow "in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." 2. To grow in the knowledge of Christ we must go to the right source for information (2 Peter 3:1-2). 3. Before Peter gave his final instruction, he mentioned the epistles written by Paul (2 Peter 3:15-16). 4. This brings us to the theme of our lesson -- "let us learn about Christ from Galatians."
Discussion:
I. WE LEARN FROM GALATIANS 4:4-5 THAT CHRIST CAME TO EARTH
A. This took place "when the fullness of the time was come." B. He was "made of a woman" (Genesis 3:15; Isaiah 7:14). C. He came so we could be: 1. redeemed 2. adopted as God's children. D. When Christ came to earth "He gave Himself for our sins" (Galatians 1:3-5; Isaiah 53:4-5). E. After Christ gave Himself for our sins, the Father "raised Him from the dead" (Galatians 1:1).
II. WE LEARN FROM GALATIANS 3:26-29 HOW WE GET INTO CHRIST
A. We put Christ on when we are baptized into Him. 1. Jesus included baptism in His Great Commission (Mark 16:15-16). 2. We receive the remission of sins at baptism (Acts 2:38). 3. Baptism is immersion in water (Acts 8:38-39). 4. Sins are washed away at baptism (Acts 22:16). 5. At baptism we are raised with Christ so we can "walk in newness of life" (Romans 6:3-4). 6. At baptism we become members of the one body (1 Corinthians 12:13). 7. At baptism God performs a special operation (Colossians 2:12-13). B. When we get into Christ we become new creatures (2 Corinthians 5:17) which is a matter of great importance (Galatians 6:15). C. As new creatures,: 1. we must abstain from "works of the flesh" (Galatians 5:19-21) 2. we must pursue "the fruit of the Spirit" (Galatians 5:22-23; 6:7-8).
III. WE LEARN FROM GALATIANS 5:1-4 THAT CHRIST HAS SET US FREE FROM THE LAW OF MOSES
A. Christ came to "redeem" us from the law (Galatians 3:13; 4:4-5). B. We must avoid being entangled with the yoke of bondage. C. Those who seek justification from the law for their practices: 1. are debtors to do the whole law 2. are fallen from grace.
Conclusion:
1. A careful study of Galatians will help us to grow in the knowledge of Christ. 2. Let us close with the admonition given in Galatians 6:9-10.
