Encouraging One Another To Embrace Grace

Thesis: Since we have a knowledge of right and wrong naturally written in our hearts, we easily strive in "religion" to add a list of "do's" we must adhere to in order to be godly and spiritual. But Paul reminds us that God's grace alone is what earns us a right standing with him.

Paul addresses the Galatian church with a heart to establish an understanding of grace over works through a:

1. PASSIONATE APPEAL (v. 12)

   • encourages as brother and partner
   • adding to grace, nullifies grace
   • works need to be perfect to work
   • urges unity in Christ's work

2. KIND REMINDER OF TRUTH (v. 12-16)

   • any self-righteousness is failure
   • adhere to culture until it violates Bible
   • law puffs up, righteousness outside of
     self (in Christ) leads to humility
   • law detracts from gospel evangelism
   • focus on law/works = disappointment in
     everyone else because all fail
   • Rejoicing in heaven occurs when someone
     repents, not when they do righteousness

3. HONEST WARNING (v. 17)

   • Ministry can have ill-based motives
   • Religious Power Freaks = Gospel enemies
   • ministry should always benefit others
     and exalt Christ

4. PARENTAL EXPRESSION (v. 19-20)

   • confronts with endearment
   • desires believers to mature in faith
   • wants gospel-centered thinking church

CONCLUSION: In all areas of Christian ministry, we must love others from a gospel based perspective. We minister, proclaim, evangelize and disciple from grace -- to grace, desiring others to embrace Christ and his offer of grace.