First and Second Peter are grouped in what are called the General Epistles, written to the Church at large. The theme of First Peter is the refining and growth potential in our sufferings, 1Pe 1:3, 1Pe 1:6; 1Pe 2:2. This epistle was written to believers scattered by persecution throughout Asia Minor (1 Pe 1:1). The date was circa 64-65 A.D.—the beginning of Nero’s persecutions. First Peter is the best known and loved of these epistles, called by E.J. Goodspeed, “One of the most moving pieces of persecution literature.” This epistle is written to suffering believers, and is styled by Isaac Walton as, “affectionate, loving, lowly, and humble.” This epistle conveys an intense expectation of the Lord’s return as seen in 1Pe 1:5, 1Pe 1:7, 1Pe 1:13, 1Pe 2:12, 1Pe 4:13, 1Pe 4:17, 1Pe 5:1, 1Pe 5:4.
Gene Cunningham - June 10, 2003
Galatians 2
The curse (Gal 1:8-9) - things devoted to destruction, (Due 26:28, Lev 27:28-29, Lev 10:1-3, 1Co 15:22). Rather than being in conflict with the apostles he teaches in concert with them (Act 15:1-5, Gal 2:1-10). Legalism uses force - compulsion, fear, envy to enslave (Gal 2:4-5). Go has no elite children. Galatians was written around Hab 2:4 —"the just shall live by faith". Living faith cannot help but be actively involved, but is motivated by the Spirit. All believers have a manifestation of the Spirit for the benefit of all (Gal 2:8, 1Co 12:1-7). Paul defends his apostleship by telling of the incident with Peter (Gal 2:11-15). How we live declares how we believe. Key verse is Gal 2:16. On what does our salvation rest —our accomplishments or Him (Gal 2:17-21, Col 2:4-6)? If works save us, Christ died in vain (Gal 2:21).
Scripture References: Galatians 2:4-5, Colossians 2:4-6, Galatians 2:1-10, Galatians 2:17-21, Acts 15:1-5, Galatians 2:16, Leviticus 10:1-3, Galatians 2:11-15, Leviticus 27:28-29, Galatians 2:8, Galatians 1:17, Habakkuk 2:4, Galatians 2:21
From Series: "Galatians - The Truth and Power of the Gospel - Hot Spring AR - 2009"
This series was given at Grace Bible Church of Hot Springs Arkansas in November 2009.