download word document: a-case-study-in-2-5-10-09-web
(May 10, 2009)
- Life Group Discussion Guide -
OPEN:
1. Would you consider yourself a “fact oriented learner” or do you learn “more conceptually”?
2. In terms of communicating a new idea or reemphasizing an old idea – what would be a technique you might use?
3. Why do you think the Apostle Paul went to such great length to emphasize the “Gospel” in a variety of ways? What are some of the terms and concepts he used? (Example: justification by faith, redemption; Holy Spirit)
DIG:
1. What lessons do you feel that Paul is making in Galatians 3:1-5? What is the contrast he makes? In light of those contrasts what is one of the roles the Holy Spirit should have in our lives?
2. Compare Galatians 4:1-5 with Galatians 3:23-29.
What point is the contrast with being “under the supervision of the law” with “being under faith in Christ”? Being a “slave” vs. being a “Son”? What are some of the Blessings of being of “Abraham’s seed and being a “Son”?
3. What do you think is a lesson we could learn when Paul uses the contrast of “no value” Galatians 5:6a vs. “the only thing that counts”? Galatians 5:6b
4. How would the practice of love as expressed in I Corinthians 13:1-8 keep us from biting, devouring and destroying each other (5:15)
5. Christ has set us free (5:1) we are called to be free (5:13)
(A) As we practice that freedom – what is its limitation? (5:13b, 5:16-18, 5:19-21)
*What do you think he had in mind when he said, “that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God”? How does your viewpoint stack up against Christ? (Mark 12:33, 34)
(B) As we practice our freedom in Christ, what should we do? (Galatians 5:13b-15; 22-24) *What is the Holy Spirit’s role? (5:18, 25). See also Romans 5:8
*How does love & the Holy Spirit temper us from being conceited, provoking and envying each other? (See also Eph. 3:8-10)
Reflect / Apply:
As you contemplate these passages and lessons this week: Journal your thoughts about where you are in life in these areas? What do you need to change to be where God wants you to be? Then Pray