Galatians (for 10/15)

LITERARY READING
Using the following outline, write a one sentence summary of each point and one question or observation about that point as it relates to your faith life.

I. Introduction (1:1-10)


II. Paul’s Ministry as an Apostle (1:11-2:14)


III. Justification by Faith (2:15-2:21)


IV. Law and Faith (3:1-4:7)


V. Slavery and Freedom (4:8-5:12)


VI. The Fruit of the Spirit (5:13-5:26)


VII. Conclusion (6:1-18)

Or, using short concrete details from the text, attempt to recreate Paul’s “story” (from chapters 1-2) and the story of the Galatian church as it is revealed in this letter.

HISTORICAL READING
Why do you think this letter was written? What question(s) are addressed?


What implied political or social realities should we consider?


What can you learn about the relationships between the people in Galatia?


What can you learn about the apostle Paul, and his relationship with the Galatians?


DEVOTIONAL READING
What images or feelings come to mind as you read this letter?


What does this letter have to say to our country? To our global community? Consider especially how this letter has been and can be used in conversations about slavery.


What similarities exist between the church at Galatia and our church today? What does is God saying to our church in this letter? What is God saying to you?


In Galatians 1:7 Paul speaks of perversions of the Gospel. What interpretations of the Gospel have you experienced that might fall into this category? What is Paul’s standard for knowing the difference? How can this be applied in contemporary situations?


Read Galatians 3:10 and 5:16. What do these verses mean for you? What sort of living is Paul advocating? Why? What difference do you think motive (why we do good works) makes?


What would change in you if you took Paul’s words seriously? What would you be concerned about? What person or situation would you see differently than you see now?

LUTHERAN THEOLOGICAL READING
In what ways do you hear Paul’s words as law? What demands or judgments are being made?


How does this text confront you with your own sins? (see especially 5:6, 13-6:10)


How does this text proclaim the gospel (God’s good news of forgiveness, grace, and promise)? (see especially 2:15-21; 3:6-14, 23-4:7)



In what ways does this text point you or lead you to Christ?