Recently, I have come across many scenarios where people are having a difficult time receiving freedom from and forgiveness for sin and issues in their lives. These instances remind me of the Book of Galatians and I have been reading it. So, I will give you an overview and summary of the book, plus an application.
The book of Galatians was written by Paul to the church in Galatia and the primary issue of the book is receiving the grace through the revelation of Jesus Christ rather than grace through the Law. Paul was specifically addressing the differences between the Jews who practiced the Law, and the Gentiles, who felt no responsibility to the Law (specifically circumcision).
For those who still felt that their salvation came from the law, Paul says that if they continue to believe that their salvation comes by earning it (the law, works), then the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross was in vain (Gal. 2:21), but we have been crucified with Christ, so Christ lives in us, which is our true identity. If we do not except this, then we are throwing away Christs' free gift of salvation.
In the way of identity, Paul speaks of our identity as sons of God and how we have an inheritance as sons (ch. 4). He uses the example of Hagar and Sarah to say that we are sons of the free woman and not the slave woman, which means he is showing us our true identity as adopted sons of God through Christ Jesus. Likewise, he also identifies us as "those born of the Spirit" (4:29).
Therefore, out of this identity, Paul goes on in chapter 5 to admonish us to "walk in the spirit" so that we will not fulfill the lust of the flesh (5:16). Many people will read that, however, then try to exhibit the fruits of the spirit from 5:22, but this totally contradicts what Paul is saying. He is saying you cannot do it on your own strength, because then those "fruits" are actually just works. The fruit has to come out of your identity in Christ and the grace He gives you. You are a child of God. You are born of the free woman. Therefore, don't take on the old man again, but walk in the new--praying in the spirit, washing yourself with the water of the word, and speaking the identity of Christ to yourself to combat the lies that you are not free.
I hope that makes sense, this is a different style than I usually do, but I feel this is an important message. This week, take the 6 chapters of Galatians and read one chapter a day. On the first or last day, try to read through the whole book in one sitting (it may take an hour). This will help you get the flow of the whole book.
Note the passages on identity and write them down, so you can speak them to yourself when the enemy brings up your past and tries to tell you that you haven't changed. Then, as you read, ask the Lord to help you walk as one born of the Spirit, so that you will not fulfill the lust of the flesh. Ask Him to give you a deeper revelation of Christs' sacrifice on the cross, so that you will realize that your past has been totally removed and will not throw away the grace that has been given by His blood.
Blessings to you all.
Amanda
Copyright © 2010, Amanda Rich, All Rights Reserved
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