For "part I" of this study click on link below:
- We continue our study in vs 13 of Galatians chap 1 -
verse 13: "For you have heard of my former manner of life in Judaism, how I used to persecute the church of God beyond measure and tried to destroy it."
- Before coming to Christ, people will do what they "feel" is right. This thinking almost always comes from one of these possibilities: 1) philosophical worldview, 2) religious worldview, 3) environmental/social class leanings, 4) governmental laws or mandates. We are reminded, "lean not to your own understanding...".
- We are all doing what we think we NEED/HAVE to do, when most often it is rather what we WANT to do so that we will feel vindicated or justified in what is done. "We all as sheep have gone astray, everyone has turned to their own way."
- There may not be the actual physical hurting of some Christian or of Christ (though persecution of Christians is still occurring around the world) , but selfish will is a form of persecution against Christ and the church. It shows the intolerance of the world against Christ and His body. Jesus said, "If the world hates you, you know that it has hated Me before you".
verse 14: "...and I was advancing in Judaism beyond many of my contemporaries among my countrymen, being more extremely zealous for my ancestral traditions."
- Some people have gotten so caught up in the "rat race" or "climbing the corporate ladder" or even "keeping up with the Jones's" that they are unwilling to break themselves to "think outside the box". Despite accusations of Christianity being narrow-minded (and yes, absolute truth is and has to be exclusive), it is the one true source that actually allows you to see passed, through and above any present circumstances there may be and supersedes any social standing or financial bracket. "He that the Son has set free, is free indeed."
- Most Christians are Christians because their parents were, the formula is also true of most non-believers. Take great care with spiritual decisions, they will have long-lasting effect on your children and grandchildren and theirs as well.
This is the end of our session today. Pray for the furtherance of this ministry. We will continue this study as soon as the Lord wills and his servant is able. Peace to you all and let the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ rest upon you.
copyright 2005. travis marshall iv
