The theme for the Spring 2011 Bible conference in Phoenix is found both at the beginning and end of the book (1Ti 1:18, 1Ti 6:12). In each reference, different words and phrases are used. In the first, Paul speaks of the good fight of faith as an ongoing campaign, thus reminding us that we are part of a vast and great spiritual army. In the last, his words focus on our own personal struggle, a good reminder that no one can fight our battle for us. This scope and intensity will be captured as we follow Paul’s thought through the book.Gene Cunningham - June 10, 2003
Galatians 7
Spiritual life originates in the Holy Spirit (Gal 2:20), but operates in the sphere of liberty (Gal 5:1), and results in sacrificial service (Gal 6:1). The focus and motive in "you who are spiritual" is Christ (Gal 6:1-2). Spirituality is defined in Chapter 5 as being led by the Spirit (Gal 5:6, Gal 5:11-24). "Meekness" is power under control not weakness (Gal 6:1) — submission to the authority of Word of God and power of the Spirit and considering the glory of Jesus Christ. Make sure you don't have an attitude of condescension (Gal 6:3). "Law of Christ" (Gal 6:2) is the only law we're under — "faith working through love" (Gal 5:6), "law of liberty" (Jam 1:25, Jam 2:12), "royal law" (Jam 2:8), "the love of Christ compels us" (2Co 5:14). Love is burden bearing (Gal 6:2, Rom 15:1). God welds us together through ministry to one another (Rom 8:28). This a matter of realism (Gal 6:3) and personal responsibility.
Spiritual living is oriented toward the eternal harvest (Gal 6:6-10). At the judgment seat we stand alone; our actions then will be something in which we can rejoice (Gal 6:4). Spiritual living focuses on eternity. Paul felt the debt Jesus paid (Rom 1:14, Rom 8:12-13, Mat 16:24). Confession of sin without correction is self-deceiving (Gal 6:7-8). "In fellowship" is not a Biblical concept. "Having fellowship one with another" (1Jo 1:7) means joint participation —action, engagement, involvement striving toward a joint goal. Paul suggests we view every decision and action from eternity. Our eternal harvest is what we've sown (Gal 6:8-10). Our "cross" to bear is the sacrificial service to others as an ambassador and priest (Gal 6:10, Gal 5:6). We can fall into the trap of making a good appearance, yet rob our service of the power of the Spirit of God (Gal 6:12). Paul returns to his boast in the cross (Gal 1:4, Gal 6:14). "Walk" means to advance in step that is in the power of the Spirit and love of Christ (Gal 6:14-17).
As the disciples were eating the passover, memorializing 1500 years before, Jesus gave them the communion elements (Mat 26:26). Jesus gave His body and blood as a gift. He is the only mediator — the God-man.
Scripture References: Galatians 6:3, Galatians 5:6, Galatians 6:2, Galatians 2:20, Romans 1:14, Galatians 6:1, Galatians 6:10, James 2:8, Matthew 26:26, Galatians 6:4, Galatians 5:11-24, Galatians 6:8-10, James 2:12, Galatians 6:14-17, Galatians 6:6-10, Galatians 5:6, John 1:7, James 1:25, Galatians 6:14, Galatians 6:3, Galatians 6:1-2, Galatians 6:7-8, Galatians 5:6, Galatians 1:4, Romans 8:28, Galatians 6:1, Matthew 16:24, Galatians 6:2, Galatians 6:12, Romans 15:1, Galatians 5:1, Romans 8:12-13
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.