January 11, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Galatians Chapter 3

¹ O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you?

² This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?

³ Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?

⁴ Have ye suffered so many things in vain? if it be yet in vain.

⁵ He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?

⁶ Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.

⁷ Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham.

⁸ And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed.

⁹ So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.

¹⁰ For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.

¹¹ But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.

¹² And the law is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them.

¹³ Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:

¹⁴ That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

¹⁵ Brethren, I speak after the manner of men; Though it be but a man’s covenant, yet if it be confirmed, no man disannulleth, or addeth thereto.

¹⁶ Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ.

¹⁷ And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect.

¹⁸ For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.

¹⁹ Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.

²⁰ Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.

²¹ Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.

²² But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.

²³ But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed.

²⁴ Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.

²⁵ But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.

²⁶ For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.

²⁷ For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.

²⁸ There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.

²⁹ And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction:

Galatians Chapter 3 highlights the central role of faith in a Christian’s life and underscores the superiority of grace over the law. The apostle Paul continues his argument that righteousness is not attained through the law but through faith in Jesus Christ. He calls the Galatians to remember the foundations of the Gospel and not to return under the burden of the law. The chapter shows the inadequacy of the law to give life and emphasizes God’s promise, which is accessible to all through faith in Christ.

Commentary:

Righteousness through Faith (Verses 1–14):
Paul begins with a strong rebuke of the Galatians who have deviated from the truth of the Gospel. He asks a rhetorical question: Did they receive the Spirit of God through the works of the law or through faith? The answer is clear: only through faith. Paul uses Abraham as an example, whose faith was credited to him as righteousness. The blessing promised to Abraham also applies to the believers. At the same time, Paul warns that those who rely on the works of the law are under a curse, as the law demands absolute perfection. However, Christ has redeemed the believers from this curse by becoming a curse Himself. Through this, the blessing of Abraham is made accessible to all through Christ.

Promise and Law (Verses 15–18):
Paul explains that the law does not annul the promise. He uses the example of a testament, which cannot be altered after it has been confirmed, to show that God’s promise to Abraham – through his seed, Christ – remains unchanged. The inheritance of the promise is not based on the law but on God’s free grace.

The Purpose of the Law (Verses 19–29):
Paul describes the law as a “tutor” that points people to Christ. The law was added to reveal sin and emphasize the need for a Savior. With the coming of faith, believers are no longer under this tutor. Through faith in Christ, all people become children of God and part of Abraham’s family. Paul emphasizes that in Christ, there are no distinctions between Jews and Greeks, slaves and free, men and women – all are one in Him. Those who belong to Christ are Abraham’s descendants and heirs of the promise.

Summary:

Galatians 3 emphasizes the superiority of faith over the law. Paul argues that righteousness is obtained only through faith in Jesus Christ and not through the works of the law. He shows that the law had a temporary role to prepare people for Christ. With the arrival of faith, believers are freed from the bondage of the law and receive the inheritance of the promise through Christ. This chapter reminds us that all are equal in Christ and that our identity and righteousness come solely from God’s grace through faith.

 

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/11-01-2025-galatians-chapter-3-believe-his-prophets/

2.6 Summary
Covenant Love – God’s Faithful Devotion and Our Response

Lesson 2, Covenant Love, illustrates how deep and unwavering God’s love is for His people and how it obligates us to respond and pass it on. God’s love is described in the Bible as unconditional, yet the blessings of His covenant relationship are tied to our faithfulness and obedience.

1. The Eternal Love of God

God’s love encompasses all people and is steadfast, regardless of our mistakes or weaknesses (John 3:16). It invites us to accept it and make it experienced in our lives. This love calls us to respond with trust, gratitude, and devotion.

2. God’s Love as a Covenant

God establishes a covenant with His people, demonstrating His unwavering faithfulness (chesed). This covenant brings blessings, which, however, depend on our willingness to live in obedience and love towards God (Deuteronomy 7:9). God’s love always endures, even when people reject it or lose the blessings of the covenant.

3. Conditional Blessings

While God’s love is unchanging, the enjoyment of the benefits of a relationship with Him depends on our response. Our faithfulness and obedience are crucial to experiencing the fullness of His love. The image of the sun serves as a reminder: God’s love always shines, yet we can choose to place ourselves in the shadows.

4. Forgiveness and Responsibility

God has forgiven us an immeasurable debt through Jesus, as illustrated by the parable of the unforgiving servant (Matthew 18:23–35). This forgiveness calls us to forgive ourselves and extend grace in our daily lives. Forgiveness is not a one-time act but an attitude that shapes our lives.

5. Love as a Gift and Commission

The love we have received is a gift that obligates us to give it unconditionally (John 15:12). This love is manifested in acts of neighborly love, forgiveness, and support. At the same time, it points to the eternal hope found in Jesus Christ.

Final Thought

God’s covenant love reminds us that our relationship with Him is sustained by His immeasurable love. It calls us to reflect this love in our lives—through faithfulness, forgiveness, and neighborly love. By living out God’s love, we invite others to experience the same transformative grace.

The lesson on God’s covenant love holds profound significance for our daily lives and faith. It challenges us to actively integrate God’s love into our everyday actions and make it visible in our relationships and behaviors.

1. Trusting in God’s Faithfulness

• In Daily Life: The realization that God’s love and faithfulness are unwavering gives us security and confidence, even in difficult times. We can trust that God keeps His promises, even when we fail.

• In Faith: God’s faithfulness invites us to lead our lives in close fellowship with Him and to find guidance in His commandments.

2. Obedience as an Expression of Our Love

• In Daily Life: Our decisions on how we treat others reflect our obedience to God. Obedience is shown through honesty, patience, and compassion in everyday situations.

• In Faith: Obedience is not a burden but a response to God’s love. It means living in harmony with His will and honoring Him in our actions.

3. Forgiving and Extending Grace

• In Daily Life: Forgiveness heals relationships and frees us from resentment. It allows us to bring peace into our families, workplaces, and communities.

• In Faith: By forgiving others, we reflect God’s grace and live out the Gospel practically.

4. Actively Living Neighborly Love

• In Daily Life: God’s love calls us to actively help—whether through supporting those in need, sharing resources, or being present for others. Small acts of neighborly love make God’s love tangible.

• In Faith: Neighborly love is not just a moral duty but an expression of our love for God. It connects our profession of faith with concrete actions.

5. Gratitude and Praise

• In Daily Life: The assurance that we are upheld by God’s love should lead us to a posture of gratitude. Gratitude helps us appreciate the good in life and face challenges with hope.

• In Faith: Praise becomes a natural response to God’s immeasurable love. Through prayer, Bible reading, and fellowship with other believers, we celebrate His faithfulness.

6. Hope and Testimony

• In Daily Life: Covenant love gives us hope that we can share with others. Our words and actions can testify to God’s love and lead people to Him.

• In Faith: We live with an eternal goal in mind—the promise of life with God. This hope inspires us to live in love and faithfulness despite the imperfections of this world.

Final Thought

God’s covenant love calls us to play an active role in His story of grace. It connects our everyday decisions with a higher perspective that shapes our lives and invites others to experience God’s love. By living His love, we fulfill our faith with meaning and make God’s kingdom visible in the world.

God’s faithfulness is the anchor of our faith, and His call to love is our mission for each day.

Practical Connections

• Today: Write a message to someone you haven’t contacted in a long time to show them God’s love. Or help someone who needs practical support.

• This Week: Plan a specific action where you serve someone, such as volunteering or offering help in your environment.

• Long-Term: Look for opportunities to be part of a ministry or community that makes God’s love visible, whether through social work, mission projects, or church activities.

Summary

The love we have received from God is the core of our faith and the foundation for our actions. This love should become visible in our relationships, our forgiveness, and our testimony. It gives our lives deeper meaning and invites others to experience the transformative power of God’s love themselves. By passing on this love, we live out the message of the Gospel in our daily lives.

God’s love is a gift that fills our hearts and calls us to generously share it with others.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-2-covenant-love-2-6-summary-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/

January 10, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Galatians Chapter 2

¹ Then fourteen years after I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took Titus with me also.

² And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain.

³ But neither Titus, who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised:

⁴ And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage:

⁵ To whom we gave place by subjection, no, not for an hour; that the truth of the gospel might continue with you.

⁶ But of these who seemed to be somewhat, (whatsoever they were, it maketh no matter to me: God accepteth no man’s person:) for they who seemed to be somewhat in conference added nothing to me:

⁷ But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter;

⁸ (For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:)

⁹ And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision.

¹⁰ Only they would that we should remember the poor; the same which I also was forward to do.

¹¹ But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed.

¹² For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision.

¹³ And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation.

¹⁴ But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews?

¹⁵ We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles,

¹⁶ Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.

¹⁷ But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid.

¹⁸ For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor.

¹⁹ For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God.

²⁰ I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

²¹ I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction:

Galatians Chapter 2 is a key section in which the Apostle Paul describes his recognition by the other apostles as well as his confrontation with Peter in Antioch. This chapter provides us with a deep insight into the early church’s relationship to the truth of the Gospel and the handling of cultural and legal challenges. It showcases Paul’s determination to defend the freedom in Christ and emphasizes that righteousness comes solely through faith in Jesus Christ. This chapter reminds us of the central message of the Gospel and the importance of steadfastly holding to the truth without compromise.

Commentary:

Paul’s Recognition (Verses 1–10):
Paul describes how, following a revelation, he went to Jerusalem to discuss his Gospel with the leading apostles. He emphasizes that even Titus, a Greek, was not compelled to be circumcised, highlighting the freedom in Christ. Despite the pressure from false brothers, Paul stood firm on the truth of the Gospel, and the leading apostles acknowledged his calling by extending the hand of fellowship to him. This event underscores the unity of the church in the diversity of its callings.

The Confrontation with Peter (Verses 11–14):
In Antioch, Paul publicly challenges Peter because Peter was acting hypocritically out of fear of the Jewish Christian visitors and was distancing himself from the Gentile Christians. Paul makes it clear that such a change in behavior contradicts the truth of the Gospel. This episode highlights the importance of consistency and sincerity in faith.

Justification by Faith (Verses 15–21):
Paul explains that righteousness is not attained through works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that no one is justified by the law, but only through faith. The section culminates in the powerful statement: “I live; yet it is not I who live, but Christ who lives in me” (Verse 20). These words illustrate the new life in Christ that is made possible by God’s grace.

Summary:

Galatians 2 highlights that the truth of the Gospel must be defended without compromise. Paul demonstrates that righteousness comes through faith, not by works of the law. He describes the recognition of his ministry by the other apostles and his bold confrontation with Peter when Peter endangered the unity of the Gospel. This chapter is a powerful reminder that our new life in Christ is not possible through human effort but solely through God’s grace. It calls us to live sincerely, courageously, and in the freedom of the Gospel.

 

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/10-01-2025-galatians-chapter-2-believe-his-prophets/

2.5 You Have Freely Received; Freely Give
Passing On Received Love – The Call to Neighborly Love

Read John 15:12; 1 John 3:16; and 1 John 4:7–12. What do these passages teach us about the relationship between God’s love, our love for God, and our love for others?

The verses from John 15:12; 1 John 3:16; and 1 John 4:7–12 clearly demonstrate that God’s love is both the origin and the model for our love—both towards Him and towards others. This love is a gift given to us without any return, and it obligates us to pass it on just as generously.

1. God’s Love as a Model

• The Depth of God’s Love: Jesus shows us through His sacrifice on the cross how selfless and boundless true love is. He paid a debt that we could never repay.

• Commandment to Love: Jesus calls us to love one another as He has loved us. This love is not merely a feeling but is expressed through selfless actions and service to others.

2. Love as a Sign of Forgiveness

• Acknowledged Forgiveness Inspires Love: Luke 7:47 reminds us that our willingness to love depends on how consciously we are aware of the forgiveness of our own debt. Those who understand how much has been forgiven to them will be filled with gratitude and love.

• A Life of Grace: Our love for God is shown in how we extend the grace we have received to others—in forgiveness, patience, and practical assistance.

3. Love in Words and Deeds

• Help in the Here and Now: God’s love becomes visible when we support others in their daily lives—whether through practical assistance, comfort, or simply by sharing time and attention.

• Pointing to the Eternal: This love does not stop at earthly needs. It also points to the eternal hope found in Jesus Christ—the promise of new life in a world without sin and death.

4. Practical Significance for Our Faith Life

• Living Gratitude: Remembering the immeasurable forgiveness we have received through Jesus should lead us to a posture of gratitude expressed in love.

• Practicing Selfless Love: Our lives should reflect God’s love by loving others unconditionally and selflessly—in the family, in the church, and in society.

• Bearing Witness: Love in actions is powerful, but we should also not hesitate to point to Jesus through our words. Our love for others should always include an invitation to encounter God.

Summary

God’s love for us is a gift that not only saves us but also calls us to imitation. The forgiveness we have received obligates us to pass on this love—in actions that address people’s needs here and now and in words that point to the eternal hope in Christ. This responsibility is both an expression of gratitude and a testimony to the transformative power of God’s love in the world.

What can you concretely do to love God by loving others? What can you do today and in the coming days to show people God’s love and ultimately invite them to enjoy the promise of eternal life?

Concrete Steps to Love God by Loving Others:

1. Live Love in Daily Life

• Today:

  • Show kindness to someone in your environment, whether through a thoughtful conversation, an encouraging call, or a small helping gesture.

  • Pray specifically for a person who is struggling or feeling lonely, and let them know you are thinking of them.

• In the Coming Days:

  • Look for opportunities where you can actively help, whether by assisting with daily tasks like shopping or childcare, or simply by being present.

2. Practice Forgiveness

• Today: Consider if there is someone you need to forgive and take the first step toward reconciliation.

• In the Coming Days: Practice being non-retaliatory, meeting people with patience and understanding.

3. Show God’s Love Through Concrete Help

• Today:

  • Donate time or resources to help those in need—whether through a visit, a donation, or participating in a project in your community.

• In the Coming Days:

  • Commit to a long-term involvement in an initiative that supports people in need, consciously letting God’s love shine through.

4. Point People to God’s Love

• Today:

  • Share an encouraging Bible verse or a word of hope with someone going through a tough time.

• In the Coming Days:

  • Invite someone to a church service, Bible study, or a Christian event to introduce them to the promise of eternal life.

5. Live Love in Family and Community

• Today:

  • Show patience and appreciation towards your family members or others, even in everyday challenges.

• In the Coming Days:

  • Intentionally spend time with people around you, listen to them, and build an atmosphere of love and acceptance.

Summary:

The love for God is manifested in how we interact with others. Through small and large acts of kindness, forgiveness, support, and encouragement, we can make God’s love tangible. At the same time, we should point people to the hope and promise of eternal life found in Jesus Christ. Every step—whether today or in the coming days—can be an expression of our love for God and an invitation for others to experience this love themselves.

The lesson about received and passed-on love has direct significance for our daily lives and our faith. It calls us to make the love we have received from God alive in our everyday actions.

1. Living Love in Relationships

• In Daily Life: In every encounter with others, we have the opportunity to mirror God’s love. Whether through patience, kindness, or offering practical help—these gestures are expressions of our faith.

• In Faith: Our relationship with God is strengthened when we actively pass on His love. Obedience to the command to love others is a sign of genuine dedication to Him.

2. The Transformative Power of Forgiveness

• In Daily Life: Forgiveness heals relationships and grants us peace. It is a practical means of making God’s love visible and bearing witness to it.

• In Faith: By forgiving others, we experience the depth of God’s forgiveness ourselves. This attitude renews our relationship with God and with people.

3. Love as a Testimony for Christ

• In Daily Life: People become aware of God through our acts of love. An encouraging conversation, practical help, or a heartfelt invitation can open someone’s heart.

• In Faith: When we point others to the source of our love—Jesus Christ—we connect earthly help with the eternal hope of the Gospel.

4. Gratitude as the Foundation of Neighborly Love

• In Daily Life: Realizing that we have received undeserved love and forgiveness motivates us to act generously and selflessly. This gratitude helps us look beyond our own well-being.

• In Faith: Gratitude deepens our worship and makes our service to others an expression of our love for God.

5. Love as a Daily Decision

• In Daily Life: In small, everyday decisions—like being patient in a stressful situation or being helpful in dealing with others—God’s love becomes concrete. These moments are opportunities to reflect His character.

• In Faith: The conscious decision to live out love brings us closer to God and strengthens our trust in Him.

Practical Connections:

• Today: Write a message to someone you haven’t contacted in a long time to show them God’s love. Or help someone who needs practical support.

• This Week: Plan a specific action where you serve someone, such as volunteering or offering help in your environment.

• Long-Term: Look for opportunities to be part of a ministry or community that makes God’s love visible, whether through social work, mission projects, or church activities.

Summary

The love we have received from God is the core of our faith and the foundation for our actions. This love should become visible in our relationships, our forgiveness, and our testimony. It gives our lives deeper meaning and invites others to experience the transformative power of God’s love themselves. By passing on this love, we live out the message of the Gospel in our daily lives.

God’s love is a gift that fills our hearts and calls us to generously share it with others.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-2-covenant-love-2-5-you-have-freely-received-freely-give-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/