Podcasts about Judaizers

Send us a textThis podcast shows how Paul fought for the true gospel message for the benefit of the church of Jesus Christ. Every new church started by Paul involved false teachers swarming in to destroy his message. The false teachers in Galatia were Judaizers pushing for all believers to keep the law of Moses and live by works. No grace was considered like Paul taught. Even Peter with the influence of James was blinded or believe in works. Listen to hear Pauls powerful message that saved our gospel message that remains todaySupport the show

Send us a textJustification by faith stands as the cornerstone of Christian doctrine, yet throughout history, believers have struggled with the temptation to add works to grace. This powerful exposition of Galatians reveals why any admixture of legality fundamentally corrupts the gospel message.The apostle Paul confronted the Galatian believers who had been deceived by Judaizers into thinking they could embrace justification by faith while still requiring circumcision. This critical error reflects humanity's innate tendency to want law integrated with grace—a combination that, once mixed, is no longer grace at all. Through careful examination of Paul's arguments, we discover why this matters so profoundly for our understanding of salvation.Many misunderstand God's fairness, believing that election somehow violates divine justice. Yet the truth revealed in Galatians offers a more profound perspective: if God were merely "fair," all humanity would face eternal condemnation. Divine grace operates outside these parameters, not by eliminating justice but by satisfying it through Christ's substitutionary atonement. For believers, Christ bore the wrath they deserved, standing in their place as the perfect sacrifice. This distinction between walking in the Spirit versus remaining under law permeates Paul's message, showing why these two paths cannot be merged. The works of the flesh—whether sensual sins like adultery and fornication or religious sins like idolatry—reveal our desperate need for grace alone.What does this theological understanding mean for your daily walk with Christ? When we truly grasp our natural state of sin and God's magnificent grace, it produces genuine humility and reverence. This fear of the Lord—a profound awe at His holiness and mercy—transforms how we approach both God and others. Have you allowed legalism to creep into your understanding of salvation? Return to the pure gospel of grace and experience the freedom Christ died to give you.The Balance of GrayFaith That Challenges. Conversations that Matter. Laughs included. Subscribe Now!Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show

Saturday, 6 September 2025   For whoever does the will of My Father in heaven is My brother and sister and mother.” Matthew 12:50   “For whoever, if he should do the determination of My Father, the ‘in heavens,' he – he is – My brother and sister and mother” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus extended His hand toward the disciples and exclaimed, “Here are My mother and My brothers!” In order to explain that, He next says, “For whoever, if he should do the determination of My Father, the ‘in heavens.'”   Jesus sets the parameters for whom He is referring from the previous verse, explaining what He meant. But what is the “determination of My Father” that He is referring to? The answer to the thought is found in John 6 –   “Then they said to Him, ‘What shall we do, that we may work the works of God?' 29 Jesus answered and said to them, ‘This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent.'” John 6:26   This explains what Jesus is referring to. Jesus is not (by a long shot) telling His hearers that they must observe the Law of Moses. That is what Jesus came to fulfill. He is not telling us that He is kin to the stock of Israel and that we must bless them to receive a blessing, even if His literal descent is from Israel. He does not say that those who have big churches full of wealthy congregants are His family.   The famous, beautiful, athletic, politically connected, royalty, etc., are excluded without believing in Jesus. Cutting out all categories of people, Jesus identifies those whom He is referring to as those doing “the ‘determination of'” His Father. To exactingly identify them, He next closes out Matthew 12, emphatically saying, “he – he is – My brother and sister and mother.”   Genealogy is excluded. This is why Paul says –    “For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.” Galatians 3:26-29   Paul further says –   “Where is the wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the disputer of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? 21 For since, in the wisdom of God, the world through wisdom did not know God, it pleased God through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe.” 1 Corinthians 1:20, 21   It is true that at the time of Jesus' ministry, those of Israel who were under the law were expected to observe the law. Nobody should dispute that. But Jesus' words in John 6, as explained by Paul and the other apostles in the epistles, tell us that we are to have faith in the works of the Son. His works include sinless perfection in His life before the law, His death in fulfillment of it, and His resurrection, which proved that it was so. Belief in this is what God expects of His people. This is the good news of Jesus Christ.   Life application: To cut out much of the theological error that rushes your way from the pulpit, computer, TV screen, etc., remember what God is doing in the world as explained in Scripture. God has a plan of redemption set forth to restore humanity to Himself.   That plan of redemption is based on the work of His Son, Jesus Christ. This plan, centered on His Son, is often co-opted by those who want to control others in various ways. At the time of the early church, it was Judaizers coming in and trusting in the flesh, boasting over those they circumcised.   As the church developed, various cults and sects have arisen to pull people away from the gospel. Eventually, the church became such a large and powerful entity that it exalted itself and its doctrines above the simple gospel. Because of this, the reformation occurred.   In America, a nation that allows freedom of religion, people took advantage of others by proclaiming aberrant ideas through a manipulation of Scripture. Sometimes, there is the exalting of a particular version of Scripture, not Jesus, who is the focus of that Scripture, as a supposed necessary condition for salvation.   Today, unconditionally supporting Israel, a nation that has rejected Jesus at this point, is said to be a necessary condition for receiving God's blessing. In fact, this false teaching is explicitly taught by many supposed Jesus-centered ministries. It is Jesus, not a person, Bible version, nation, or denomination, who brings salvation.   When should believers support a church? The answer is when that church proclaims the gospel. When should believers exalt a people group or nation? The answer is when that nation exalts Jesus Christ. Israel, as a nation, has not yet done this. But unlike other nations, they are explicitly prophesied as someday doing so. For this reason, prayers for them should be raised to God that His will be done in this rebellious group of people.   At the same time, we should be willing to evangelize and pray for all people, telling them about the saving message of Jesus Christ. This alone will bring people to a right relationship with God.   “So God, who knows the heart, acknowledged them by giving them the Holy Spirit, just as He did to us, 9 and made no distinction between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith. 10 Now therefore, why do you test God by putting a yoke on the neck of the disciples which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? 11 But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved in the same manner as they.” Acts 15:8-11   Lord God, thank You for the simple gospel of Jesus, our Lord and Savior. Help us to have our priorities right, clearly thinking through what it means to be in a right standing before You. Your word tells us what it is! It is through faith in Him and what He has done. Yes, thank You for this simple gospel. Amen. Matthew 12   12 In that time, Jesus, He went – the Sabbaths – through the grainfields, and His disciples, they hungered, and they began to pluck kernels and eat. 2 And the Pharisees, having seen, they said to Him, “You behold! Your disciples, they do what it permits not to do in Sabbath.” 3 And He said to them, “Not you read what he did, David, when he hungered, he and those with him? 4 How he entered into the house of God and the bread ‘the before-setting' they ate, which not it is being permitted him to eat, nor those with him, if not the priests only? 5 Or not you read in the law that, the Sabbaths, the priests in the temple the Sabbath profane, and they are guiltless? 6 And I say to you that the temple – greater, it is here. 7 And if you had known what it is, ‘I desire mercy and not sacrifice,' not you condemned the guiltless. 8 For Lord, He is – even of the Sabbath – the Son of Man.”   9 And having departed thence, He went into their synagogue. 10 And, you behold! Man, he is, having a withered hand. And they queried Him, saying, ‘If it permits, the Sabbaths, to cure?' That they should accuse Him.   11 And He said to them, “What man, he will be from you, who he will have one sheep, and if this, it should fall into a pit on the Sabbaths, not he will seize it and he will raise it? 12 Therefore, how much man – he excels a sheep! So too, it permits – the Sabbaths – to do good.” 13 Then He says to the man, ‘You outstretch your hand.' And he outstretched it, and it reconstituted, healthy as the other. 14 And the Pharisees, they took counsel against Him, having gone out, how they might kill Him.   15 And Jesus, having known, He withdrew thence. And they followed Him, great crowds. And He cured them all. 16 And He admonished them that not they should make Him apparent. 17 That it should be fulfilled, the ‘having been spoken' through Isaiah the prophet, saying:   18 “You behold! My Servant whom I chose, My beloved in whom it approved, My soul, I will place My Spirit upon Him, And judgment to the Gentiles, He will proclaim. 19 Not He will wrangle, nor He will clamor, Nor anyone – he will hear in the streets His voice. 20 A reed, being battered, not He will break, And flax being smoldered, not He will extinguish, Until if He ejects judgment into victory. 21 And in His name, Gentiles, they will hope.”   22 Then he was brought to Him ‘being demon possessed,' blind and mute, and He cured him, so the blind and mute speak and see. 23 And they were astounded, all the crowds. And they said, “Not any, this, He is the Son of David?”   24 And the Pharisees, having heard, they said, “This, not He ejects the demons if not in Beelzebul, prince of the demons.” 25 And Jesus, having known their thoughts, He said to them, “Every kingdom, having divided against itself, it desolates, and every city or house having divided against itself, not it will stand. 26 And if the Satan, he ejects the Satan, he divided upon himself. How then, it will stand, his kingdom? 27 And if I, I eject demons in Beelzebul, your sons – in whom do they eject? Through this they, they will be your judges. 28 And if in God's Spirit I, I eject the demons, then it preceded upon you, the ‘God's kingdom.' 29 Or how, any, he can enter into the house of the strong and his goods through-seize, if not first he should bind the strong? And then, his house he will through-seize. 30 The ‘not being with Me,' he is against me. And the ‘not gathering with Me,' he scatters.   31 Through this, I say to you, every sin and blasphemy, it will be forgiven men, but the ‘Spirit blasphemy' not it will be forgiven men. 32 And whoever if he should speak a word against the Son of Man, it will be forgiven him. But whoever, if he should speak against the Holy Spirit, not it will be forgiven him, neither in this age, nor in the coming.   33 Either you make the tree good and the fruit of it good, or you make the tree rotten and the fruit of it rotten. For from the fruit, the tree – it is known. 34 Viper's offspring! You can, how, speak good – being evil? For from the surplus of the heart, the mouth, it speaks.  35 The good man, from the good treasure of the heart, he ejects good, and the evil man, from the evil treasure, he ejects evil. 36 And I say to you that every inactive utterance that if they will speak, men, they will render a word about it in judgment day. 37 For from your words, you will be justified, and from your words, you will be condemned.”   38 Then, they answered, some of the scribes and Pharisees, saying, “Teacher, we desire to see a sign from You.” 39 And having answered, He said to them, “Generation – evil and adulteress – it seeks a sign, and not it will be given it, if not the sign of Jonah the prophet. 40 For just as Jonah, he was in the lunker's belly three days and three nights, thus He will be, the Son of Man, in the earth's heart three days and three nights. 41 Men, Nineveh, they will arise in the judgment with this generation and they will sentence it, for they reconsidered at the proclamation of Jonah. And you behold! Jonah's greater is here! 42 Queen, south, she will arise in the judgment with this generation and she will sentence it, for she came from the extremities of the land to hear Solomon's wisdom. And you behold! Solomon's greater is here.   43 And when the unclean spirit, it departs from the man, it traverses through waterless spots seeking rest, and it finds not. 44 Then it says, ‘I will return to my house whence I departed.' And having come, it finds ‘holidaying,' having been swept and having been arranged. 45 Then it traverses, and it takes with itself seven other spirits, itself eviler, and having entered, it dwells there. And the last of that man, it becomes worse than the first. Thus it will be also – this evil generation.”   46 And He yet speaking to the crowds, you behold, His mother and His brothers had stood without seeking to speak to Him. 47 And, he said, someone to Him, “You behold! Your mother and Your brothers, they have stood without seeking to speak to You.” 48 And answering, He said to the ‘telling Him', “Who, she is, My mother, and who, they are, My brothers?” 49 And having extended His hand to His disciples, He said, “You behold! My mother and My brothers. 50 For whoever, if he should do the determination of My Father, the ‘in heavens,' he – he is – My brother and sister and mother.”

Galatians Chapter 3 Paul gives another defense of his gospel of grace reminding the Galatians that he ministered by faith and not The Law! He warns of the Judaizers of his day and we draw an analogy to the grievous … Continue reading →

Send us a textSalvation by grace alone or salvation by grace plus works? The Galatian church faced this pivotal question after Paul's departure, when Judaizers crept in suggesting that faith in Christ wasn't quite enough—circumcision and law-keeping were also necessary for true righteousness.Paul's passionate response in Galatians 5:3-4 cuts straight to the heart of the gospel: "I testify again to every man that is circumcised that he is a debtor to the whole law. Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace."These powerful words have often been misunderstood. The phrase "fallen from grace" doesn't suggest that genuine believers can lose their salvation. Rather, Paul reveals the stark incompatibility between two systems of justification—law-keeping versus grace through faith in Christ. Add even one element of law-keeping to grace as a requirement for salvation, and you've abandoned grace entirely.Consider the logical conclusion: if circumcision is necessary for salvation, then perfect obedience to every aspect of the law becomes equally necessary. Just as breaking one commandment makes a person guilty of breaking the entire law, attempting to be justified by keeping one aspect of the law obligates someone to perfect obedience in everything. This reveals the utter impossibility of salvation by works.The beauty of the gospel lies in its completeness. Salvation comes entirely from God—predetermined before the foundation of the world, accomplished through Christ's sacrifice, applied by the Holy Spirit, and secured forever by divine power. Those truly born again cannot "give back" their salvation, for true regeneration involves a fundamental transformation that cannot be undone.This understanding doesn't lead to license but to humble gratitude. When we grasp that our salvation depends entirely on God's work rather than our own, we're moved to worship and obedience motivated by love, not fear or obligation.Are you standing firm in the liberty Christ purchased, or slipping back into religious performance? Join us as we explore the liberating truth that in Christ alone, we find a salvation that is both completely free and eternally secure.The Balance of GrayFaith That Challenges. Conversations that Matter. Laughs included. Subscribe Now!Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show

Send us a textHave you ever wrestled with the concept of "falling from grace" in Galatians 5:4? This powerful discussion unpacks what Paul really meant when he wrote those challenging words.The conversation reveals a fascinating observation—unlike his other letters, Paul never addresses the Galatians as "saints," suggesting his uncertainty about their spiritual condition. This provides crucial context for understanding his warnings about mixing law and grace.We examine how justification works: either by grace through faith or by attempting to keep the law. There's no middle ground. When Paul says someone has "fallen from grace," he's not describing believers losing salvation, but rather individuals who've departed from the path of grace altogether, demonstrating they were never truly justified by faith.The participants share personal insights about identity transformation in Christ. As one contributor beautifully puts it: "There's no me. The new me is being transformed into a Christ-like being." This metamorphosis happens not through law-keeping but through the Holy Spirit's work in believers who have been justified by faith.The discussion also tackles practical applications, identifying modern examples of legalism—from Sabbath-keeping requirements to mandatory speaking in tongues as "proof" of salvation. These modern "Judaizers" continue to promote the same dangerous mixture of law and grace that Paul so forcefully confronted.What makes this episode particularly valuable is its balance of theological depth with practical wisdom. You'll come away with a clearer understanding of salvation's permanence and the freedom that comes from embracing grace without the burden of legalistic performance.Have you been trying to earn what God freely gives? Listen and discover the liberty Christ purchased for you.The Balance of GrayFaith That Challenges. Conversations that Matter. Laughs included. Subscribe Now!Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show

A group of Pharisees called "Judaizers" boldly declared that Gentile believers must submit to the rite of circumcision and come under the law of Moses. This led to a monumental church council in Jerusalem with the apostles and elders present.  Peter, Paul, Barnabas, and James all weigh in at this important meeting.  Their ruling is that the Gentiles do not have to be circumcised, nor did they need to keep the Law of Moses.  They were given four decrees that foster good relations between the believing Jews and Gentiles. 

Paul warns the church at Philippi to beware of the dogs, and no, he's not talking about puppies or pack animals, he's talking about those Judaizers who say you must be circumcised in order to be a follower of Jesus. If anybody had reason to boast in the Jewish-ness, it was Paul, and in today's chapter he gives an extensive list of his Jewish commendations. He places no trust in these fleshly accomplishments, however, as his goal is only to know Jesus and the power of his resurrection. He is quick to say that he is not perfect, but he strives toward the goal of God's heavenly call in Christ Jesus, laying aside what is behind. Our focus should not be on earthly things, for our citizenship is in heaven. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Send us a textPaul's letter to the Galatians delivers a thunderbolt of theological clarity that reverberates through the centuries to challenge our understanding of salvation. What happens when well-meaning believers start adding requirements to the gospel? The consequences are far more severe than most realize.The Galatian churches faced a crisis. Having embraced the gospel of grace through Paul's ministry, they were now being persuaded by Judaizers that faith in Christ wasn't enough—they needed to adopt Jewish laws and customs to truly be right with God. Paul's response is both fierce in its doctrinal clarity and tender in its pastoral concern.At the heart of this letter stands the foundational truth that "a man is not justified by works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ." This isn't merely a theological nicety but the very essence of Christianity. When we attempt to combine faith and works for salvation, we don't enhance the gospel—we fundamentally transform it into something that no longer saves.As our study reaches Galatians 4:12-18, we see Paul shifting from thundering doctrine to heartfelt appeal. "Become like me, for I became like you," he urges, inviting the Galatians to embrace the freedom he discovered when Christ liberated him from pharisaical legalism. His appeal reminds them of their former joy and the deep bond they shared when they first believed.The tactics of these false teachers mirror those used in Eden—not outright rejecting truth, but subtly adding to it. They flattered the Galatians while trying to make them dependent disciples. Paul exposes their motives and reminds believers that true gospel ministry flows from genuine love, not self-interest.Are you standing fast in the liberty Christ secured, or slipping back into performance-based religion? Has legalism robbed you of the joy that once characterized your faith? Paul's passionate defense of justification by faith alone continues to call us back to the liberating truth that in Christ, we are truly free.Support the show

The book of Hebrews is full of warnings, specifically written to Hebrew believers of the first century, who were being persecuted and compelled by Judaizers to return to the dead Old Covenant system. But this is a timeless warning, which is relevant to us today. The sin of apostasy (or of falling away from Christ and renouncing our profession of faith in Christ) is rampant in our day, in America, There is very little to no persecution and fear for those who are Christians in America. But what there is, is far worse, there is ease, comfort, prosperity, and love of the world. These sins plague the church today. It is as if Satan has said, I won't persecute American Christians, I'll just draw them into the world! I will just allure them back to me and back into the world. And in doing so, I will make them adversaries against Christ.

This is the second audio recording: The True Church A.D. 30 to 100, the Judaizers

Monday, 11 August 2025   Now when the Pharisees heard it they said, “This fellow does not cast out demons except by Beelzebub, the ruler of the demons.” Matthew 12:24   “And the Pharisees, having heard, they said, ‘This, not He ejects the demons if not in Beelzebul, prince of the demons'” (CG).   In the previous verse, the people, although not committed to the proposition, somewhat suspected that Jesus may be the Son of David. Having stated this, the usual suspects now chime in. Matthew records, “And the Pharisees, having heard.”   Having seen their track record thus far, it can already be surmised that these men were indignant at the very thought of Jesus being the anticipated Messiah. Therefore, “they said, ‘This, not He ejects the demons if not in Beelzebul, prince of the demons.'”   There is no article before “prince” or “ruler” (NKJV). Thus, the statement speaks of a title more than a position. One can see the emphatic retort to the people's questioning –   23 ‘Not any, this, He is the Son of David?' 24 ‘This, not He ejects the demons if not in Beelzebul, prince of the demons.'   In order to draw the people's speculation away from Jesus possibly being the Son of David, they go to the most extreme resolution possible. Not only is He not the Son of David, but He also isn't even just a charlatan. Rather, He has power, but that power is surely derived from he who is prince of the demons!   They couldn't deny that the miracles were real. The evidence was there before them. But they would never come to acknowledge that what Jesus did was of God. Therefore, the certain explanation that they clung to was that Jesus' power was demonic.   Because of their words, Jesus will carefully explain why their reasoning is faulty and why they are in serious trouble before God because of their accusation.   Life application: On 24 June 2025, Adam Sheafe was arrested for crucifying an Arizona pastor several months earlier. Sheafe intended to kill fourteen more pastors, all because they believe in Jesus. The news service said –   “The suspect described his plan as ‘Operation First Commandment' and claimed that the Bible's New Testament teachings about Jesus Christ go against the biblical commandment that says, ‘You shall have no other gods before me.' Sheafe stated, ‘His commandments have been annulled by this character called Jesus, a human being who I believe is the son of Satan'” (American Military News).   Sheafe is obviously theologically confused. But what would lead someone to take such a stand? The answer is because he was told something about Scripture that was incorrect and, instead of doing the research, he trusted what he was told.   The people of Israel were presented with the obvious truth that Jesus was capable of healing the deaf and blind, and yet they questioned whether He was the Messiah or not. To rob them of any faith that may have sprouted in their hearts, the Pharisees quickly intervened and assured them that Jesus was healing by the power of Beelzebul.   It is one thing to listen to authority figures, and it is another to do so without checking what they say. Israel was presented with their Messiah. They rejected Him as a nation, and it caused them to, once again, fall under the curses of the Law of Moses. They had agreed to the law, they were to live by it, and they were to accept what it taught.   As Jesus noted in John 5, Moses wrote about Him. In Luke 24:27, it says, “beginning at Moses and all the Prophets, He expounded to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself.” Israel rejected this. They continue to do so today.   Unfortunately, because of the teachings of modern-day Judaizers and Hebrew Roots adherents, this attitude has spread around the world. Like the Roman Catholic Church, their doctrine denies the all-sufficiency of Christ's work, mandating individual works as a part of the salvation process.   Law has been the problem since the first days of man on earth. It remains a problem to this day. It is what puts a wall between God and man. What is needed is God's grace. We cannot find life without it, and we cannot find healing and restoration apart from it.   May we remember this lesson. Jesus came to demonstrate to Israel that He was their Messiah. As a part of this demonstration, He gave His life up in fulfillment of the Law of Moses. Why would we ever want to go back to that? May we go forward in God's grace, living for Him and honoring Him by honoring the full, finished, final, and forever work of Jesus Christ our Lord.   Lord God, thank You for the all-sufficient nature of Christ's work. Through what He has done, we are fully reconciled to You. Thank You for Jesus, our Lord and Savior. Amen.

In his closing of the letter to the Galatians, Paul pulls back the curtain and exposes the motives of the Judaizers. They were gripped by the crowd, in love with the praise of people and afraid of persecution. But Paul was a man who had been gripped by the cross and found His everything in Christ. Today, Pastor David Horner closes our series in Galatians with a message from Galatians 6:11-18 titled, "Gripped By The Cross."

Send us a textJustification by faith alone stands at the heart of the Christian gospel, yet it remains one of the most contested doctrines throughout church history. In this thought-provoking examination of Galatians 3:10-12, we explore Paul's passionate defense of salvation through faith apart from works of the law.Paul presents a stark dichotomy that challenges much of contemporary religious thinking: either we're justified by perfect law-keeping or through faith in Christ's finished work. There is no middle ground. When the Judaizers attempted to add circumcision and other legal requirements to faith in Christ, Paul recognized this as a fundamental corruption of the gospel message.The apostle delivers a sobering reality check by quoting Deuteronomy: "Cursed is everyone who does not continue in all things written in the book of the law, to do them." This statement unveils the impossibility of justification through works. The standard isn't partial obedience or "doing our best" – it's absolute perfection from birth to death, something only Christ has achieved.What makes Christ's substitutionary work so beautiful is that He accomplished what was impossible for us. He perfectly fulfilled every requirement of God's law, died as our sacrifice, and was raised for our justification. Through faith, His perfect righteousness becomes ours, credited to our account so we can stand justified before a holy God.The implications are profound. Adding even one work requirement to faith fundamentally alters and nullifies the gospel of grace. Whether it's circumcision, Sabbath observance, baptism, or any religious ritual presented as necessary for salvation, such additions destroy the essence of justification by faith alone.Discover why this doctrine matters not just for salvation but for everyday Christian living. When we grasp that our standing before God depends entirely on Christ's work rather than our own, it transforms our motivation for obedience. Join us as we unpack this essential truth that has shaped Christian theology for two millennia.Support the show

Galatians had embraced the Judaizers' teaching.  Paul explained that that the Law was the equivalent to the elementary teachings of Paganism.  The Law was not a bad thing but showed us the need for a Savior.

Are you ready to be rock solid in your faith like Titus? In a powerful sermon, Pastor Pencil leads us through the inspiring life of Titus, a loyal companion of the Apostle Paul, who exemplified consistency and reliability in his mission to make disciples. Drawing from Paul's mentorship to Titus, Pastor Pencil emphasizes the importance of being multipliers in our faith, echoing the biblical truth found in 2 Timothy 2:2, where we are called to teach others so they can, in turn, teach more. With a compelling connection to the biblical narrative, Pastor Pencil shares how Titus's unwavering commitment prepared him to face the challenges of the early church, including the divisive influences of the Judaizers. The message resonates with our church community, encouraging each member to embrace their unique gifts and to engage in mentorship, fostering a legacy of discipleship. As the sermon concludes, Pastor Pencil urges us to act, asking what steps we need to take to become faithful multipliers—inviting us to step beyond our comfort zones and actively participate in transforming lives for Christ's sake. Let's respond to the call and go where we are needed!

Send us a textWhat happens when well-meaning believers start adding requirements to salvation by faith alone? Paul's letter to the Galatians confronts this dangerous tendency head-on, and his words remain just as relevant today as when they were first penned.The conflict centers on a simple question with profound implications: How are we justified before God? Paul makes his position crystal clear—"By the works of the law shall no flesh be justified." Yet the Galatian believers were being influenced by Judaizers who insisted that while faith in Christ was good, they still needed to be circumcised to truly be right with God.This struggle between faith alone and faith-plus-works continues to challenge Christians across denominations and traditions. Whether it's baptism, speaking in tongues, Sabbath observance, or dietary restrictions, many believers still feel compelled to add something to Christ's finished work. As one participant in our discussion noted, "When they start adding that 'but,' they don't know the gospel."What makes Paul's argument so powerful is his personal testimony. As a former Pharisee who understood the law better than most, he recognized its inability to justify sinners. The problem wasn't with God's law, which remains holy and good, but with human frailty. No one can perfectly fulfill the law's demands, which is precisely why salvation must come through another means—by grace through faith.When Paul writes, "If I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor," he's highlighting the danger of returning to a system he knows cannot save. Having abandoned law-keeping as the path to righteousness, any attempt to reestablish it would constitute a rejection of Christ's sufficient work.The simplicity of the gospel is both its beauty and its stumbling block. We're justified by faith alone in the finished work of Jesus Christ—nothing more, nothing less. This message strips away human pride and religious performance, leaving us to rest completely in what God has done rather than what we must do. And that, perhaps, is why we find it so difficult to accept without trying to add our own contributions.Have you been complicating the simple message of salvation by grace through faith? What "buts" have you been adding to the gospel? The freedom Christ offers comes when we finally stop trying to earn what has already been freely given.Support the show

Send us a textThe age-old struggle between grace and legalism takes center stage in this deep, theological exploration of what makes a gospel truly "good news." From the very first moments, we dive into the dangerous territory of gospel additions – those requirements some claim are necessary for salvation beyond faith in Christ.Through careful examination of Paul's letter to the Galatians, we unpack how certain religious groups distort the gospel by adding requirements like water baptism, Sabbath observance, dietary restrictions, or temple rituals. The Mormon church serves as a case study, with their requirements for baptism of the dead and abstention from tea and coffee according to their "Word of Wisdom." As one participant powerfully states, "If you add anything to the gospel, it's no longer the gospel."The conversation reaches its theological depth when exploring Paul's confrontation with Judaizers who demanded Gentile converts be circumcised. This historical conflict perfectly mirrors modern debates about what constitutes saving faith. We examine the profound statement in Galatians 2:19 – "For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God" – revealing how the law's purpose was always to expose our need for grace rather than provide a pathway to earn God's favor.Perhaps most moving is the moment a worship leader shares lyrics from the hymn "All Sufficient Merit," bringing several participants to tears with its powerful reminder that Christ's work alone is sufficient. The song encapsulates the entire discussion: "I lay down my garments. Many empty boasts, good works now all corrupted by a sinful host. Dressed in my Lord Jesus, a crimson robe made white."This isn't merely academic theology – it's the beating heart of Christian freedom. Understanding that salvation comes through faith alone liberates believers from the crushing weight of trying to earn God's favor while simultaneously inspiring a heartfelt response of gratitude that manifests in godly living. Join us for this transformative conversation about what makes the gospel truly good news, and discover why anything added to grace is no longer grace.Support the show

Send us a textThe tension between law and grace forms the cornerstone of authentic Christian theology, yet remains one of the most misunderstood concepts in churches today. When Martin Luther rediscovered Paul's radical message in Galatians 2, it sparked the Protestant Reformation and transformed Western Christianity forever.This powerful episode dives deep into why anything added to the gospel fatally corrupts it. Using a compelling analogy of the law as a threatening "mob boss" pursuing those who've received immunity through Christ, we explore how legalism continually attempts to reclaim territory in believers' lives. Paul's strategic introduction of uncircumcised Titus into Jerusalem becomes a masterclass in theological demonstration—proving that salvation requires nothing beyond grace through faith.Against the backdrop of remembering theological titans like John MacArthur and RC Sproul, we examine how their unwavering commitment to grace-centered theology mirrors Paul's refusal to compromise with the Judaizers. The episode highlights Paul's ingenious rhetorical strategy: bringing living proof (Titus) before the apostles to silence those who insisted circumcision was necessary for salvation.The implications reach far beyond ancient theological disputes. Today's Christians face similar pressures to add requirements to salvation—whether baptism, speaking in tongues, political alignment, or adherence to church traditions. This exploration of Galatians 2 provides clarity on distinguishing between salvation's foundation (grace alone through faith alone) and the Christian's response to that salvation.What core beliefs form your understanding of salvation? Have you unconsciously added requirements to what Christ has already accomplished? Join us for this transformative journey through scripture's clearest defense of salvation by grace alone.Support the show

Send us a textThe battle for the purity of the gospel message has raged since the earliest days of Christianity. In this deep dive into Galatians chapter 1, we explore Paul's passionate defense of the unadulterated gospel of grace against those who would add requirements to it.When Paul writes that he "marvels" at how quickly the Galatian believers were turning to a different gospel, he's expressing genuine shock and dismay. The Judaizers—early Jewish Christians who insisted Gentile converts needed to follow the Law of Moses—were effectively undermining the very foundation of salvation by grace. This episode unpacks Paul's powerful assertion that "the gospel plus anything, or the gospel minus any part of it, suddenly is no longer the gospel."We examine why Paul's language is so strong when he pronounces that anyone preaching a modified gospel should be "accursed"—even if that person were Paul himself or an angel from heaven. This isn't mere rhetorical excess but reflects the eternal stakes involved when the message of salvation is corrupted.The discussion tackles contemporary applications as well. Many religious groups today—from Catholicism to Mormonism to various denominations—hold to aspects of the gospel while adding requirements that transform it into "another gospel." We clarify the role of baptism as an important symbol of our faith that doesn't contribute to salvation itself, addressing the persistent human tendency to want to add something to Christ's finished work.Particularly striking is Paul's rhetorical question: "Do I now persuade men or God?" His concern wasn't winning human approval but faithfully representing God's truth—a challenging reminder for Christians today who might be tempted to soften the gospel's edges to make it more palatable.Whether you're struggling with legalism, curious about what makes the true gospel distinct, or simply wanting to deepen your understanding of Galatians, this episode offers clear, biblical teaching on why grace alone is the foundation of authentic Christian faith.Support the show

“Further, my brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you. Watch out for those dogs, those evildoers, those mutilators of the flesh. For it is we who are the circumcision, we who serve God by his Spirit, who boast in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh— though I myself have reasons for such confidence" (Philippians 3:1-4a). Having spent some time commending partners in the gospel to the Philippian church, Paul now turns to another subject somewhat abruptly, and his tone changes with it. He has described those who are exemplary models for the community, but he now does the opposite, warning against those he calls “dogs, evildoers, mutilators of the flesh.” This is very strong language coming from a letter which, up to this point, has been full of joy and encouragement even in the midst of suffering.  Paul's warning here might be familiar to you if you've read some of his other writings. In his letter to the Galatian church, Paul warns against a group of people that scholars of Paul's letters call “Judaizers.” These were people who would follow along the path of Paul's missionary journeys, teaching that groups of Gentile converts (like the church in Philippi) had to be circumcised in order to join Jewish Christ-followers as a community of faith. In Galatians, Paul writes a pretty strongly worded letter to those tempted to heed the false teaching of this group of people, rather than recognizing and teaching that the grace of Christ meant that to be included in the family of God no longer required the physical symbol of circumcision. To preach the opposite, Paul said, was to “pervert the gospel of Christ” (Gal. 1:7). It is these teachers and their message that most scholars believe is being addressed in today's verses as well. For the believers in Philippi, and for all believers, the thing which unites them is not a sign in the flesh like circumcision, but a unity achieved by God's presence among them and working through them by the Holy Spirit.  The exhortations that Paul gives the Philippian church just before and after his warning against false teachers begins to give us an indicator of the practices Paul encourages the community to pursue which will shape them to be resilient to false teaching. He encourages them both to “rejoice in the Lord” (v. 1) and “boast in Jesus Christ” (v. 3). In essence, he's encouraging them to worship and to testify to the truth of who God has revealed himself to be in Christ.  These are practices that believers like us today can also trust to help us as we encounter false teachings, whether those that come from within the church or outside of it. We don't necessarily always think of worship as an antidote to false teaching. We may first think of doctrinal debate or apologetics as the right approach. Perhaps we wonder, or have heard others wonder, why regular worship practices, including attendance at weekly services, are important. In this passage, Paul indicates that communal practices of rejoicing and testifying about who Christ is–things the church does weekly in Christian worship–orient believers repeatedly to what is true and what is not. Being saturated in the word, active in praise and worship, and joined with a community of faith in fellowship–these provide us with the knowledge, the posture, and the accountability structures of community to help shape our minds and our hearts for discernment. And most importantly, of course, worship fosters relationship with God, and in so doing, makes it only natural that we would rejoice. So as you journey on, go with the blessing of God: May the peace of the Lord Christ go with you: wherever he may send you. May he guide you through the wilderness: protect you through the storm. May he bring you home rejoicing; at the wonders he has shown you. May he bring you home rejoicing once again into our doors.  

What if the gospel you believe isn't from God—but from man?Most people never ask that question. They assume their version of Christianity is true, sincere, and safe. But in Galatians 1, Paul drops a terrifying warning: it's possible to think you're following Jesus… and actually be under a curse.This chapter uncovers the deadly difference between man-centered religion and the God-given gospel. The Judaizers added just a little tradition to the message—and that was enough to corrupt the entire thing. Today, many do the same.So, how do you know if you're following a gospel that pleases men… or one that pleases God?✅ Discover the signs of a false gospel✅ Learn how Paul proved his message came directly from Jesus✅ See why approval-seeking Christians risk losing everything✅ Unmask the spiritual danger of “truth + tradition” ChristianityIf you care about your soul and the souls of others, this message from Galatians 1 is one you can't afford to miss.

Judaizers have been trying to blur the line between their religion and Christianity for thousands of years but it wasn't until the 19th century that they found a 'magic word' that would be instrumental in deceiving millions of Christians. In today's episode we look at the history, timeline and etymology of the word 'Judeo-Christian' and how it was used to drag America into WWII and now into more 'forever wars' in the Mideast.To understand how and why Western governments have been hijacked and are teetering on collapse look no farther than this weaponized word and the well-financed marketing efforts behind it.Notes:Joseph Wolffhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_WolffFather Charles Coughlinhttps://www.ssa.gov/history/cough.htmlJudeo-Christianhttps://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Judeo-ChristianConversoshttps://www.museodelprado.es/en/whats-on/exhibition/the-lost-mirror-jews-and-conversos-in-medieval/ac516c08-08d9-42fb-a7fd-1cba121e9946The first Christian bible of 144 A.D.https://www.theveryfirstbible.org/First-Bible-App.htmlYahweh Derangement Syndrome: Deconstructing The Devil's Greatest Trick

Galatians 1: Gospel Clarity, Conditional Love, and Personal Theology In this episode of the Exploring More Podcast, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings continue their series through the book of Galatians, focusing on Paul's bold defense of his apostleship and the uncompromising unity of the gospel. Writing with passion and urgency, Paul confronts distortions introduced by the Judaizers—reminding the Galatians that his commission comes not from man, but from Jesus Christ Himself. The conversation moves from historical context to personal reflection, as Michael and SJ examine how cultural expectations, church upbringing, and performance-based faith can cloud our understanding of grace. They explore how many believers, knowingly or not, come to believe that love must be earned—when in fact, the gospel declares it's freely given. This episode also introduces Zoweh's Base Camp, a new online resource hub offering devotionals, podcasts, and discussion guides to support deeper connection with God and others. Whether you're exploring Galatians in a group or on your own, this resource is a companion for your healing and restoration journey. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own personal theology and motivations: What's driving your faith—grace or performance? What version of love did your story teach you to believe? We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us!

Sunday, 15 June 2025   He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it. Matthew 10:39   “The ‘having found his soul,' he will lose it, and the ‘having lost his soul' because of Me, he will find it” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus noted that he who did not take his cross and follow after Him was not worthy of Him. Now, to build upon that, He says, “The ‘having found his soul,' he will lose it.”   The words at first seem paradoxical. However, Jesus is using the thought of the psuché, the soul, in two ways at the same time. The word itself was introduced in Matthew 2:20. It is derived from psucho, breath. The meaning is based on the context, and it can mean the breath of one's life, the seat of affection, the self, a human person, or an individual. The word corresponds to the Hebrew word nephesh.   In the case of Jesus' words, He indicates that a person who has found his soul, meaning his earthly self, will wind up losing his soul, meaning his eternal self. Finding one's earthly self involves looking after oneself, getting the best out of life, advancing in one's career, or whatever motivates a person to ingratiate his existence apart from God's guiding hand.   The problem with this type of life is two-fold. The first and main consideration is that it leaves God, the Creator, out of the picture. It ignores man's responsibilities to Him and sets one's course for self-directed aims. The second problem with this is obvious to all and yet it is ignored most of the time. Man is destined to die.   As this is so, all self-directed advances and aims have an end because the self has an end. Jesus says elsewhere –   “For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” Matthew 16:26   This is Jesus' intent. The person finds his soul, the epitome of self-satisfaction and aggrandizement, maybe even living to the point of hedonism, but because he has left God out of the equation, he winds up losing his soul. On the other hand, Jesus next says, “and the ‘having lost his soul' because of Me, he will find it.”   The “because of Me” is the key point of His words. Many scholars and philosophers have stated words similar in thought to Jesus' words –   Plato said, “O my friend! I want you to see that the noble and the good may possibly be something different from saving and being saved, and that he who is truly a man ought not to care about living a certain time: he knows, as women say, that we must all die, and therefore he is not fond of life; he leaves all that with God, and considers in what way he can best spend his appointed term” (“Gorgias,” 512). (via Vincent's Word Studies).   Euripides said, “Who knows if life be not death, and death life.” (via Vincent's Word Studies).   The Pulpit Commentary notes, “In Talm. Bab., ‘Tamid,' 32a, Alexander the Great asks ‘the elders of the south' ten questions, among them, ‘What shall a man do that he may live?' They answer, ‘Let him put himself to death.' ‘What shall a man do that he may die?' ‘Let him make himself alive.'”   Such sayings are found in cultures around the world, and many live lifestyles that bear this concept, such as those living as monks or in asceticism, stoicism, etc. The problem with such lives is that such people are still set to die. Without the “because of Me” of Jesus' words, their end is the same as the others. The main difference between them and those in the first half of Jesus' words is that those in the first category probably had a lot more fun in the process.   Jesus is telling His disciples that the pursuit of God in Christ is the key to finding one's soul, meaning his eternal existence in the presence of God.   Life application: It is common for Christians to use Jesus' words here and in similar passages to give up various earthly delights, to reject wealth, to live in hovels when they could live in a mansion, etc.   Some, such as the Judaizers and Hebrew Roots Movement adherents, live for self while claiming they are living for God. They do this by living by precepts of the Law of Moses instead of living in Christ. Their religion is self-directed because it has rejected the fulfillment of the law by Jesus.   Many such paths of existence in Christianity are unbiblical. For example, concerning wealth, Paul says –   “Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. 18 Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, 19 storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.” 1 Timothy 6:17-19   Paul did not say that rich people need to give up their wealth. He instructs them how to use it in a godly manner. People who are attempting to “find life” since the completed work of Jesus need to simply believe in the full, final, finished, and forever work of Christ. That is how one finds his life. Trust. Believing the gospel and trusting God that it is true by faith is how one finds life.   Jesus' words in this verse in Matthew have a context. Our instructions for finding life now, because of His completed work, have a new context. Don't stop part of the way in the redemption story. When you get to the cross and resurrection, you have come to the point where God has brought you for life. Find life by finding the risen Savior and trusting in Him.   Heavenly Father, our lives are short, and we often focus way too much on making the best of our days without considering You in the process. Forgive us for this. Help us to include You in our every thought and action. Whether we are rich or poor, healthy or sick, single or married, or in any other way, may our priority be to include You in our lives and interactions! Amen.  

This Reformed Rookie podcast episode delves into Titus 1:7-16, exploring the qualifications for elders and the challenges faced by Titus in Crete. The discussion centers on Epimenides' quote about Cretans being liars, and how this reflects the cultural context Titus faced. Pastor Anthony Uvenio analyzes the nature of sharp rebuke as commanded by Paul, contrasting it with a gentle approach. He differentiates between essential doctrines and adiaphora (indifferent matters), emphasizing the importance of unity in essentials and charity in all things. The episode also touches upon the dangers of legalism, the motivations of false teachers, and the unwavering stance of Martin Luther on the authority of Scripture, concluding with a prayer.#titus1 #Epimenides #creation #falseteachers #sounddoctrine #rebuke #legalism #gospel #churchleadership #biblicalstudies 00:08:32 - Church Order in Crete03:51 - God's Word & Unbelievers07:34 - Cretans: Negative Traits10:43 - Cretans, Judaizers, Salvation14:20 - Cretans & False Teachers17:48 - Legalism, Licentiousness21:15 - Public Rebuke & Faith24:51 - Reproving & False Motives28:45 - Rebuking False Teachers32:26 - Silencing False Teachers36:51 - Faith & Avoiding Heresy40:53 - Scripture Study & LutherPodcast: www.ReformedRookie.comPodcast: https://anchor.fm/reformedrookieFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheReformedRookie Twitter: https://twitter.com/NYapologistSemper Reformanda!

Today, this episode is all about the local church at Antioch in the early days. Do you remember some of the particulars that Dr. Luke and the Apostle Paul documented about that extraordinary church? Well, for two thousand years, Antioch has been an amazing model for local churches desiring high impact for God's mission. Join Kevin as we walk through the nine key lessons for our churches that we can glean from the church at Antioch! // Download this episode's Application & Action questions and PDF transcript at whitestone.org.

This week Paster Kevin Pinkerton continues a Be Free - Galatians. From Chapter 2, Kevin teaches about the unchanging gospel. Paul confronts hypocrisy by rebuking Peter for allowing Judaizers add to the gospel. We are Justified with faith in Jesus and trust in him alone for salvation.

"But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but a new creation." (Galatians 6:14-15) Paul refused to boast like the Judaizers. His boasting was better, because it placed all the focus on Christ.

Send us a textDownload study notes for this chapter.Download study notes for this entire book.**********Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version ®, NIV ® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. Used with permission. All rights reserved worldwide.The “NIV”, “New International Version”, “Biblica”, “International Bible Society” and the Biblica Logo are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.  Used with permission.BIBLICA, THE INTERNATIONAL BIBLE SOCIETY, provides God's Word to people through Bible translation & Bible publishing, and Bible engagement in Africa, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and North America. Through its worldwide reach, Biblica engages people with God's Word so that their lives are transformed through a relationship with Jesus Christ.Support the show

There is power in the word of God, you have been given authority when you are equipped with the word of God, the Bible wasn't just a book of information - it is God's voice still speaking to us today. Just look at how God emphasizes the importance of knowing, studying and living by His word.Please join us as Pastor Donnie teaches from Philippians chapter 3 on how the apostle Paul rebuked Judaizers and emphasized the fact that Jesus is enough and nothing compares to living for Him!

Our world revolves around “the performance plan.” If we work hard enough, perform well enough, and impress the powers that be sufficiently enough...we'll make the cut. It's not surprising, then, that “the performance plan” shows up in the realm of religion as well. Religion could be defined as: a system of beliefs, rituals, and behaviors by which a person can be made right with God. It is an attempt to make the ultimate cut.This “performance plan” approach is what Paul is warning about in Philippians 3. “Watch out for those dogs, those evildoers, those mutilators of the flesh.For it is we who are the circumcision, we who serve God by his Spirit, who boast in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh…” (vs.2-3)In order to understand what Paul is talking about, we have to go back to the story of Abraham found in Genesis 17. There God makes a covenant with Abraham. In essence, “I will be your God and you and the descendants I give you will be my people.” Then God chose circumcision as the outward sign of this covenant. Circumcision became the symbol of man's need to be cleansed from sin at the most basic point of his identity. But from the very beginning, this outward act was secondary to something of far greater importance: an inward belief. In Genesis 15:6 we read that “Abram believed the Lord, and He credited it to him as righteousness.” Faith came first – then the symbolic action.  The problem is that all too quickly the Jewish people came to believe that to get right with God all a man had to do was to be circumcised, bypassing the heart change altogether.But making the cut and getting on God's team has never been a matter of performance. It is a matter of turning to Him in faith, confessing your sinfulness and receiving His forgiveness.  In the N.T. this became clearer. Jesus came to replace the old system, giving His life to offer access to not only God's team but to God's very family. And He offered that to one and all as a free gift received by faith.Enter the Apostle Paul – or Saul as he was formerly known. He had not only been taught this misunderstood performance plan, he had become its greatest proponent.  In fact, he was so committed to it that he had sought to snuff out the Jesus movement.   And then one day, he encountered Jesus who offered Him grace, forgiving him and freeing him from the need to perform. Paul never got over that and devoted the rest of his life to sharing this good news.He would go from town to town, planting communities of Jesus-followers. After getting these churches grounded, Paul would head off to a new city to continue spreading the gospel. Now, many of these new believers were Gentiles – uncircumcised non-Jews. And after Paul left, often a group of people called “Judaizers” would come in behind him and tell these young non-Jewish believers that in order to truly be saved, they had to become Jews. More specifically, they had to be circumcised. In other words, faith alone wasn't enough. They had to jump through the hoops of the performance plan. When Paul heard about this, he came unglued! This is what he was confronting in Phil. 3:2. He says, “Do you want to compare performance? My pedigree, degrees, and zeal are second to none. Yet all of that is utter garbage because it didn't deal with my heart. Only Jesus can do that.”Are you still depending on the performance plan to be made right with God? Text: Philippians 3:2-9 Originally recorded on October 26, 2008, at Fellowship Missionary Church, Fort Wayne, IN

Pastor Sean breaks this passage down looking at... 1. The Story 2. The Argument 3. The Application. Paul corrects what many were teaching; that we believe, then we obey and are accepted. Using the story from Genesis 14-17; he reminds them that Jesus taught that we believe in faith, are accepted by God through Christ, and we obey as a result.  If we look to anything other than Jesus for our acceptance, we are just like the Judaizers in Galatia! Are we trusting in Jesus?

A Sermon for the Fourth Sunday in Lent Galatians 4:21-31 by the Rev'd Dr. Matthew Colvin Our epistle lesson this morning comes from Galatians 4. I know that Pastor Bill preached on it just recently, but I would like to look at it too, from a different angle. It is one of the most controversial chapters in the NT, both for its view of Judaism and for its hermeneutical maneuvers. Paul is concerned for Christians in Galatia. The Judaizers were taunting Gentile Christians with the manifest visible superiority of Judaism: its splendid temple; its priesthood; its Torah; all the society's esteem and honor. And against this, what did Christians have to show? They were hiding for fear of the Jews; they were subjected to persecution and arrest; they had been kicked out of the synagogue and subjected to the ban, excommunication. Above all, there was the disgrace of worshipping a criminal who had been killed by the most shameful sort of execution, crucifixion by the Romans. All this was exploited by Paul's enemies in Galatia, the Judaizers or the circumcision party. Their strategy was to exalt themselves by trying to get the Gentiles to envy them - “They zealously court you, but for no good; yes, they want to exclude you, that you may be zealous for them.” – The verb zeloō means both to be zealous and to be jealous. Paul's enemies are behaving like spiteful middle school girls — not like the righteous women of this church, but like the ones I knew when I was in school — trying to exclude a hated rival by social shunning, in order to magnify their own status. To stop them and shut them down, Paul needs to do more than just answer their case logically. He also needs to undermine their ethos; he needs to subvert the system of value that makes their case so plausible at first glance. They are counting on Paul's readers sharing their value system. Paul wants to make sure his readers do not share it. It is a task that he undertakes in many of his letters. In Romans he addresses the Jews as those who “rest on the law, and make your boast in God, and know His will, and approve the things that are excellent, being instructed out of the law, and are confident that you yourself are a guide to the blind, a light to those who are in darkness, an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, having the form of knowledge and truth in the law.” He is setting forth the Jewish system of value, the grounds of their boasting. And it was a very good grounds for boasting. The longest book in the Bible, Psalm 119, is one continuing paean of praise to the Law, the Torah. It is full of statements like, “I love thy commandments above gold and precious stones” and “The law of thy mouth is dearer unto me than thousands of gold and silver.” But Paul rips this point of boasting away by asking, “Yes, the Law is wonderful — but do you actually obey it?” In Philippians 3, Paul gathers together all the things that he could have been proud of as a Jew: “If anyone else thinks he may have confidence in the flesh, I more so: circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of the Hebrews; concerning the law, a Pharisee; concerning zeal, persecuting the church; concerning the righteousness which is in the law, blameless. But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith;” That stuff that the Jews think is so valuable? Their circumcision, their membership in one of the two faithful tribes (Benjamin and Judah)? Their zeal, their lawkeeping? It's all worthless. In fact, it's so worthless that I threw it all away. I have something of real value that none of that stuff can give you. In the book of Hebrews, Paul or someone from his circles who thought an awful lot like him has the difficult task of undermining Jewish boasting about the Temple, the priesthood, and the sacrifices — a task that might seem impossible, since these things were instituted by God and everybody knew it. The temple was imposing, gleaming with gold. Paul calls it a “tent”, the sort of makeshift, flimsy structure that you go camping in, and you lie down in it, and there's nothing but a thin layer of cloth between you and the outside, and if it's too windy, the thing is in danger of collapsing; and anyway, it's that way because you're going to take it down and pack it up anyway. That's what he thinks of your fancy temple. Besides, the real temple is in heaven. Your tent is made by human hands; the only Temple worthy of the name is made by God. The priests' ministry was observable; they were dressed in robes; everyone could see their work, and that they had been instituted by God. Paul says, “They keep on dying, which is proof that their work isn't much good. And they have to offer sacrifices for their own sins, not just the people's.” The sacrifices were there for all to see: they had been commanded by God himself. The blood of the sacrifices flowed continually at the temple, on a daily basis. Paul says, “See how they have to do it over and over again? That's because it doesn't really work. They need Jesus. That's the only sacrifice that works, and that's why Jesus only needed to be sacrificed once.” Yes, Paul is a genius at overthrowing his opponents' strongest arguments. He loves to take their most powerful evidence and use it against them. He is a master of rhetorical jujitsu, throwing his opponents to the mat by using the momentum and force of their own attacks. He is like Elijah in the contest with the prophets of Baal, one man against 450, “And he put the wood in order, cut the bull in pieces, and laid it on the wood, and said, “Fill four waterpots with water, and pour it on the burnt sacrifice and on the wood.” Then he said, “Do it a second time,” and they did it a second time; and he said, “Do it a third time,” and they did it a third time. So the water ran all around the altar; and he also filled the trench with water.” In Galatians 4, it is a terribly difficult rhetorical task that Paul faces: his opponents appear to have the Torah, the OT, on their side. It does, after all, command circumcision; it does prohibit the eating of unclean foods; it does tell the stories of Ishmael, Moab, and Ben-Ammi, the ancestors of the rival nations surrounding Israel, all of whom are deprecated as the offspring of incest, slave marriage, or concubinage. These stories account for the origins of the Gentiles around Israel. Israel itself, however, was descended from Isaac, the legitimate son and heir of Abraham. These stories underscore the chosenness of Israel, and the fact that these other nations were not chosen. “Jacob have I loved, and Esau have I hated” was not just a statement about two sons. It was a statement about two nations: the Edomites and Israel. It says that Israel is the covenant people that God loves, and Edom is not. So it is Paul's opponents, not Paul, who have the easier case to make here: Jewish people are (most of them) descended from Jacob (Israel) and Gentiles are not. And they might have made this case most plainly from the story of Isaac, Abraham's son miraculously conceived by the power of God in Abraham's old age. This is strong rhetorical ground for the circumcision advocates in Galatia. Circumcision is commanded in the Torah for God's people. It is breathtakingly audacious for Paul to argue that a proper understanding of the Torah will lead you to the conclusion that circumcision doesn't matter. Paul calls the Torah a yoke of bondage. I'm not sure we appreciate how bold a move this is. The exodus was Israel's independence day. It's when they came out of slavery in Egypt and became a free nation. Paul says that the circumcizers advocating Torah-obedience in Galatia are like those who wanted to go back to Egypt. It would be like an American saying that the Declaration of Independence is the document in American history that made everyone slaves. But that is what Paul says about the Torah, given on Mount Sinai: that covenant has led to the present state of affairs: Jerusalem that now is, and is in bondage with her children. Now, we know from elsewhere in Paul's letters, especially Romans, that he considered the Law a good gift of God and the reason why the Law was now leading to slavery was because Israel was using it wrongly, not because the Law was bad. The slavery results from Israel's sinfulness, not something wrong with the Law. But here, he doesn't go into that, because he is focused not on the Law as it was given by God, but on the Law as it was used rhetorically by his opponents. You have heard the expression, “He is wrapping himself in the flag”? That is what the Judaizers in Galatia are doing with the Torah: using it as a uniform to distinguish true, Jewish Christians from second-rate, Gentile Christians. And Paul says: You think that you look cool with your bling; but it's really chains to keep you enslaved. Above all, Paul takes the bull by the horns and uses an audacious maneuver to deal with the Judaizers' most powerful weapon: the taunt of illegitimacy. That is the point of the Ishmael story as used by Jews: the Ishmaelites, the Arabs, are illegitimate offspring of Abraham, just as the Moabites and Ammonites were stigmatized as the offspring of Lot's daughters after the destruction of Sodom. Only Jews were the children of Isaac; they had been called into existence by the power of YHWH himself. They were not the product of an ill-conceived attempt at surrogate pregnancy, and with a slave wife. Be aware that the Judaizers have centuries and centuries of social and legal precedent for their view. That line that Paul quotes from Sarah — “Cast out the bondwoman and her son, for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the freewoman” — that was a line that Paul's opponents loved to quote. When Sarah said it to Abraham, she wasn't just being mean. The lawcodes of Ur-Nammu and Lipit-Ishtar, from around the same time as Abraham, contained rules about exactly this sort of situation, and they are formulated with exactly the same sort of phrasing: “If a man has a wife a free woman who has born children to him, and he takes a slave wife and she also bears children to him, the children of the slave wife shall not share in the inheritance with the children of the free wife.” Sarah is saying, “Husband, you know the law from when we lived in Ur. This is what we have to do.” And the heretics in Galatia were taking up this two-thousand year tradition of legal and social stigma against children of slavery, and applying it to Gentile Christians. It's a powerful tool of shaming and social marginalization, and it is based on a very foundational text of the covenant: the story of the birth of Isaac. Both the Judaizers and their Galatian Gentile victims believed this text was the word of God. Both believed that the Jews were descendants of Isaac. Paul knows all this. He has chosen to fight them on their strongest ground; he gives them home field advantage. He pours water so that it fills up the trench. And then he incinerates their whole argument like Elijah. The stigma of illegitimacy? He turns it back on the Judaizers. They are the bastards now, the “children of the flesh”; they are “in bondage” with their slave-mother. The Gentile Galatian Christians? They are “children of the promise.” And just as it was back then, the child of the slave woman is persecuting the child of the promise. The two sons are marked not by their circumcised or uncircumcised status but by the slave/free polarity that distinguishes their mothers. Paul has to reach a little bit here. The LXX Greek translation that Paul used here doesn't actually say, “persecuting”. What the LXX says is that Sarah “saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian who had been born to Abraham playing with her son Isaac (paizonta meta Isaac tou huiou autes).” That's the most straightforward way to take it. But the word “playing” can also mean “mocking”. And that's probably how Paul took it. And then he magnifies it into the sibling rivalry from hell by glossing “mocking” as “persecuting”. Where did he get this from? It is transferred from the situation between the Judaizers and the Gentile Christians in Galatia. By casting the rivalry as a conflict between the flesh and the promise, Paul undercuts the Judaizers' use of the Torah. That is why he says, “These are two covenants” — the boldest piece of clever interpretation in the Bible. It is all part of his rhetorical strategy concerning the Torah that he has laid in the previous chapter, Galatians 3. The two covenants are NOT the Old and the New. They are the Torah covenant and the covenant with Abraham (which turns out to find its fulfillment in Christ). And the covenant with Abraham is more original, more foundational, more important, more primary. The law was added 430 years later. The Torah was a stop-gap measure to keep things under control until the fulfillment of the covenant with Abraham. And for Paul, Gentile Christians are that fulfillment: “in you, all the nations — the ethnê — shall be blessed.” This aligns the Gentile Christians with the whole purpose of the Covenant with Abraham, and means that Paul can cast them as the true children of the promise. They are citizens of the only Jerusalem that counts, the “Jerusalem above”. And by citing the line of Sarah, “cast out the bondwoman and her son, for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the free woman”, Paul makes clear what the stakes are here: the Judaizers and those who trust in the Torah to be their badge of membership in the covenant are not merely mistaken. They are Ishmaels and they will not inherit. They will be cast out. The Gentile Christians — and faithful Jewish Christians who did not pressure them to get circumcized — will be counted as true members of the covenant with Abraham, and the Judaizing circumcision-pushers will not. Who are the bastards now? Paul revels in what God has done. It is perfectly in accordance with his way of working: "He catches the wise in their own craftiness, and the counsel of the cunning is brought to a quick end.” (Job 5). The Judaizers have fallen into the pit that they have dug: their taunts of illegitimacy rebound on their own heads; the glory of the title of “true children of Abraham” is wrapped around the Gentile believers whom they had stigmatized. Paul's jujitsu victory is complete and total, because it is the victory of Christ, who led captivity captive and triumphed by being crucified. In the end, Paul's fierce warfare over the Galatians has to do with vindicating the honor of Christ, with proving that He has really accomplished all that Paul says he has; with showing that the covenant with Abraham is truly fulfilled in Jesus, because he is the yes and amen. To go back to the Torah is to turn the clock back and engage in historical reenactment; to live a life of live-action-role-playing instead of reality. It is a costly and foolish attempt to gain privilege and honor by denying the completeness and finality of Jesus' work, and attempting to supplement it with another identity in terms of the Torah. The true Exodus is via Christ, not via the Torah. That is part of the meaning of our gospel lesson this morning from John 6. Here the true bread from heaven, Jesus, works a miraculous feeding like the manna of old. But he does it not in order to cause the crowd to envy his disciples; he has no desire for his followers to act like the Judaizers, zealous courting others to provoke them envy. No, his disciples are to be the means by which the bread of life is given to the multitudes — and the two small fish, symbol of Gentiles and of fishing for men, of the fulfillment of Jeremiah 16:16: “Behold, I am sending for many fishers, declares the Lord, and they shall catch them.” In the end, the nations are to be blessed through the disobedience of Israel. Our time is short, so I will not try to prove this exhaustively, but I want you to see the pattern: Joseph's brothers disobey and sell him into slavery, so that he is carried off to a Gentile land, Egypt, and becomes assimilated to Egyptian ways. But God works it all out so that Joseph's imprisonment in an Egyptian prison works out for the salvation of Joseph's brothers and all Egypt, “to save many alive.” When Jesus touches dead bodies, a woman with a 12 year flow of bleeding that made her unclean, or a leper, what happens? The usual laws of uncleanness work backward: rather than becoming unclean, Jesus makes these people clean. That is the way God has designed the exile of Israel to work: rather than the exiled members of Israel becoming lost and destroyed, they have mingled with the nations and thereby brought it about that in order to keep His promises to Israel, God will save the Gentiles as well. As a result, “In Abraham's seed, all the nations shall be blessed.” Isn't it funny how Satan's schemes always backfire? He is truly the Wile E. Coyote of the Bible. He will have his church be Israel for the sake of the world; thus we are to be true heirs of Abraham, fulfilling the purpose for which He was called. Amen.

In today's episode, Kelsi chats with theologian and author R.L. Solberg about his apologetic ministry, which focuses on providing a defense of historical and scriptural Christianity in response to Torahism or the Hebrew Roots movement. Robert lays out some of the issues with Torahism before talking about his newest book, The Law, the Christ, and the Promise: A Verse-by-Verse Apologetics Bible Study through Galatians. One primary goal of the book is to show how Paul's response to the Judaizers in his day still relates to the way we combat legalism in ours. The Law, the Christ, and the Promise is now available for preorder. R. L. Solberg is an author, apologist, and professor of theology based in Nashville, TN. He runs an apologetics/teaching ministry called Defending the Biblical Roots of Christianity and is known for communicating on complex topics with clarity and grace. Show Notes:⁠Support 1517⁠⁠1517 Podcasts⁠⁠The 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠1517 on Youtube⁠More from Kelsi: ⁠Kelsi Klembara⁠ ⁠Follow Kelsi on Instagram⁠ ⁠Follow Kelsi on Twitter⁠ ⁠Kelsi's Newsletter⁠ Subscribe to the Show: ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ ⁠Spotify⁠ ⁠Youtube⁠More from R.L. Solberg:Preorder The Law, the Christ, the PromiseThe Biblical Roots YoutubeThe Biblical Roots WebsiteRobert's BlogFollow Robert on Instagram

Friday, 7 March 2025   And I say to you that many will come from east and west, and sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 8:11   “And I say to you that many from east and west, they will arrive, and they will recline with Abraham and Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of the heavens” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus noted that He had not found such faith as that of the centurion even in Israel. He continues His statement with, “And I say to you that many from east and west, they will arrive.”   The Greek word translated as east has already been seen in Matthew 2. However, the word translated as west, dusmé, is first found here. It is derived from dunó, to sink or set. It is generally associated with the setting of the heavenly bodies as if they are sinking into the sea when they reach the western horizon.   A second new word is hékó, to arrive. Most translations say “come,” but this is not necessarily the intent. To come signifies the action of motion. This word signifies the action of arriving, as in being present. It is the termination point of the coming.   As such, it isn't as if people will come from time to time from the east and the west. Rather, they will come from those locations to arrive at a new location, being present at a particular time. There is a sense of finality in this that will exclude those who do not arrive at the set location at that time.   Jesus is expressing a large, even uncountable number by saying this. As there really is no east or west, just a direction in which one will continuously travel, it indicates that wherever people are, there will be those included in His words. Understanding that, He continues with, “and they will recline with Abraham and Isaac and Jacob.”   To recline signifies having a meal. At the time, tables were low and attendees would sit on the floor, reclining on one another or on pillows designed for the purpose. At such tables, meals would be served, and it would be considered, as it is today, a time of fellowship and enjoyment.   Noting that it would be with Abraham and Isaac and Jacob, is a way of ensuring the people understood that there was a future when the righteous would be raised according to the Messianic promises and that there would be a feast at the gathering where all the righteous would fellowship together in the presence of God.   The inclusion of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob is further given to ensure that it was understood that those gathered were saved believers, meaning deemed righteous before God. It was taken as an axiom by the people that it was so. As such, it would be the fulfillment of the promises to those men as given by the Lord concerning the restoration of all things and the coming of the promised kingdom, which is “in the kingdom of the heavens.”   The context of Jesus' words is that they are stated in connection with the demonstration of faith by the centurion. He was not of Israel, he was not under the law of Moses, and there is not an ounce of evidence to suggest that he had taken up the religion of the people of Israel.   It is true that Luke 7 says that he loved the nation and built them a synagogue, but it would be a glaring oversight not to say he was a proselyte or had converted to Judaism if it was so. Any attempt to say he was a proselyte must be forced into the text based on presuppositions.   Further, Jesus skips over all of those who were under the law, like David, Daniel, and John the Baptist. Rather, He goes back to those who lived prior to the time of the law. Theirs was a walk of faith in the Lord and His promises. It was not a time of law observance.   Thus, the words of Jesus are clear. A time is prophesied when those of faith will be gathered together in the presence of God to dine and fellowship in the place that God has prepared for His people.   Life application: Context is king, and the context of Jesus' words, as spoken to the people in this passage, is that Gentiles will be included in what God has promised Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. And not only is it so, but it will be a number so large, the Bible would describe it as innumerable or with some other superlative. Instead of this, though, He simply points to the two undetermined directions of east and west to make His point.   There is a south, and there is a north, but there is actually no set east or west. In this statement by Jesus, there is a complete refutation of the doctrine of the Judaizers who are today's Hebrew Roots adherents. Jesus' words identify them as the problem that needs to be resolved. Law and works can do nothing to bring one near to God. Rather, it is by faith alone through grace alone that this is brought about.   “Therefore He who supplies the Spirit to you and works miracles among you, does He do it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?— 6 just as Abraham “believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.” 7 Therefore know that only those who are of faith are sons of Abraham. 8 And the Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel to Abraham beforehand, saying, ‘In you all the nations shall be blessed.' 9 So then those who are of faith are blessed with believing Abraham.” Galatians 3:5-9   Lord God, thank You for justification by grace through faith. Thank You that works are excluded. Otherwise, how could we ever know when we had sufficiently worked our way up the ladder and back to You! Rather, Jesus has done it all. Jesus, Jesus, Jesus! Thank You for our precious Lord Jesus. Amen.

Pastor James Kaddis will be in Galatians chapter three. We've been learning recently that we're made right with God by faith in what Jesus did at the cross on our behalf. And not by the keeping of the law. Put another way, salvation is a gift to receive not achieve. The Judaizers in the region of Galatia, were preaching something far different. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1459/29

Join Crystal as she continues our study of Galatians. Paul presses on to contradict the false teachings of the Judaizers who were trying to add works to salvation by grace. We are to stand firm in the liberty we have in Christ--we have been freed from the law! However, that liberty is not a license to sin or to continue to live however we please. Warren Wiersbe said, “Somewhere between license and legalism is true Christian liberty.”So the question becomes...How do we stay in the lane of Christian Liberty and avoid the ditches of license and legalism?Listen as Crystal shares the answer from Galatians chapter five. You can find Crystal @authorcrystalratcliff on Facebook and Instagram or on her website. Support the showConnect with the ladies of Her Portion, HERE!

Tune into episode 6 of our 9 part series with Andrew Isker (@BonifaceOption).Watch the whole series now by becoming a member at https://patreon.com/rightresponseministries

Wednesday, 12 February 2025   Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. Matthew 7:17   “Thus, every good tree, it produces good fruit. And the rotten tree, it produces evil fruit” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus noted that people will be known by their fruits. He then asked if grapes could come from thorns or thistles from figs. The answer is obviously not. He next says to His disciples, “Thus, every good tree, it produces good fruit.”   To maintain the analogy from the previous verse, this must be referring to type. He just contrasted grapes and thorns as well as thistles and figs. Not all grape vines will produce good grapes, and this is for a variety of reasons. Not all fig trees will have good figs. Examples of these are found elsewhere in Scripture, such as –   “He dug it up and cleared out its stones, And planted it with the choicest vine. He built a tower in its midst, And also made a winepress in it; So He expected it to bring forth good grapes, But it brought forth wild grapes.” Isaiah 5:2   “The Lord showed me, and there were two baskets of figs set before the temple of the Lord, after Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon had carried away captive Jeconiah the son of Jehoiakim, king of Judah, and the princes of Judah with the craftsmen and smiths, from Jerusalem, and had brought them to Babylon. 2 One basket had very good figs, like the figs that are first ripe; and the other basket had very bad figs which could not be eaten, they were so bad. 3 Then the Lord said to me, ‘What do you see, Jeremiah?' And I said, ‘Figs, the good figs, very good; and the bad, very bad, which cannot be eaten, they are so bad.'” Jeremiah 24:1-3   Despite such examples, this is not what Jesus is referring to. He is referring to kinds in general, even if within the same kind there may be plants or trees that produce bad fruit (see the parable in Luke 13:6-9). Oranges will produce good fruit, meaning oranges. Durian trees will produce durian, which is good. Etc.   On the other hand, a thornbush will never produce good fruit nor will a thistle. Their fruit will always be bad. That is seen in his next words, “And the rotten tree, it produces evil fruit.”   The word is sapros. It is variously translated as rotten, useless, corrupt, depraved, etc. It is derived from sepo, to corrupt or rot. And so, it can mean bad fruit on a good type of tree, but that would not fit His previous contrast between types. Rather, the sense can be derived from His parable in Matthew 13 –   “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a dragnet that was cast into the sea and gathered some of every kind, 48 which, when it was full, they drew to shore; and they sat down and gathered the good into vessels, but threw the bad away. 49 So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come forth, separate the wicked from among the just, 50 and cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth.” Matthew 13:47-50   The good fish are those types that are acceptable for eating. The bad would be those types that are unacceptable to eat. Likewise, false prophets are represented by one type of plant, the bad, such as the thorn or the thistle. Those who teach properly are represented by the other, the grape or the fig.   False prophets, by their very nature, are bad. Nothing they put forth will be good. On the other hand, proper teachers may have some bad fruit if their doctrine isn't perfect, but their fruit in general will be good.   Life application: False prophets have already been equated to wolves, even if they come in sheep's clothing. Their nature is that of being wolves. The exterior doesn't change that which is found inwardly.   The only way for a false prophet to not be a false prophet is to have a complete change in nature. Unlike a tree, this is not impossible. Humans are not trees. However, the nature of a false prophet is to provide false teachings. There will always be bad fruit coming from a false prophet as long as he continues to put forth that which is false.   The initial error is to be found in the false prophet, for example, Joseph Smith who founded Mormonism. But the error could have been stopped from spreading if those who heard him properly identified him as a false prophet. However, they didn't. Thus, the secondary error lies with the people who fail to identify him and walk away from him.   They had access to the proper manual, meaning the Bible. It was readily available in the US at the time of Joseph Smith. But it was left unattended by those who heard him and then followed him in his false teachings.   Mormonism is not simply a branch of Christianity (an orange tree, for example), that may have bad oranges on it, meaning a good tree with bad fruit. Rather, Mormonism is a different plant altogether (a thistle, for example) that is corrupt by nature. It can never be a good plant. If a person in Mormonism wants to be a part of what is proper, he must go to the good tree to get its fruit.   Paul explains this in Galatians 1 when referring to Judaizers, the equivalent of today's Hebrew Roots Movement –   “I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel, 7 which is not another; but there are some who trouble you and want to pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. 9 As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed.” Galatians 1:6-9   Paul says, “which is not another.” The doctrine of Mormonism, like that of the Judaizers, is not another display of the good news. It is bad news. The inherent nature itself is corrupt. Be sure to be able to identify both bad inherent nature as well as bad fruit coming from a good tree, meaning wrong doctrine within the overall family of true Christianity. We are all accountable for what we accept. Check out what you are taught!   Lord God, You have saved some of us from Islam, Buddhism, or atheism. But You have also saved some of us from Mormonism, Judaizers, and other religions that at first appear to be a part of the Christian faith. Help us to identify the error of false religion and then speak out against it so that others can also be saved from the false paths they are on. Amen.  

Send us a textIf you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below: Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle) Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback) Youtube Video Introducing the Content Feel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.com Sponsors:  Jon Cunningham, Owner, Cunningham Financial Group Website:  www.cunninghamfinancialgroup.com    Phone:  205-326-7364 Tyler Cain, Senior Loan Officer, Statewide Mortgage Websites: https://statewidemortgage.com/ https://tylercain.floify.com/ Phone: 813-380-8487We must obey the commandments of Jesus and the principles taught by Him and by His apostles and prophets. We answer to Him, and our salvation and hope is found IN HIM. It is not found anywhere else, not within us, not in men, churches, or movements. Therefore, none of those have the right to make the salvation rule for your life: only Jesus. Colossians 2 warns against Judaizing teachers, and gnostics, trying to implement sectarian and legalistic rules upon the people, teaching extreme conservatism as some form of holiness. But they had no right. Many decisions are yours to weigh, build a conscience around, and make. But, this freedom must be wielded with care. There are a couple of important laws that should govern you, even when you have the biblical right to do something, even when others cannot tell you not to. What are they? Let's dig in on one, the most vital one, today, and come back next week for the second. 

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Saturday, 4 January 2025   And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. Matthew 6:12   “And You forgive us our debts as also we, we forgive our debtors” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus included the thought of receiving one's necessary bread as a part of the Lord's Prayer. He now continues with, “And You forgive us our debts.”   The word translated as debt is opheiléma. It is found only here and in Romans 4:4, where Paul notes that the wages of those who work are like a debt that is owed. Here, the idea being presented is that sinning (a transgression against God) brings about a debt that must be satisfied. Under the law, this satisfaction was through the Levitical sacrificial system, each aspect of which anticipated the coming of the Messiah.   God's holiness demands such a satisfaction to cover over wrongdoing, removing it from His presence. This is because nothing impure or defiled can enter into His presence. Understanding this, Jesus next says, “as also we, we forgive our debtors.” Of this, Vincent's Word Studies is probably missing the mark by saying, “The Rev. rightly gives the force of the past tense, we have forgiven; since Christ assumes that he who prays for the remission of his own debts has already forgiven those indebted to him.”   Jesus is not necessarily instructing the people in what has been. Rather, it appears He is instructing them in a state of life that may exist at the time of the prayer but also a state that will be. Thus, it covers all times –   Forgive me for this. I have also forgiven others. Forgive me for what I may do, just as I will also forgive others.   The prayer shows that forgiveness of others is to be a condition for God's forgiveness at any given time, but it also appears more appropriate as a prayer to cover life in general, not each specific occasion that arises.   Life application: Sin is considered a debt that must be paid. As noted, the Levitical sacrificial system was set up for that purpose. However, each aspect of it was given as a type of Christ to come. It was actually ineffective in taking away sin –   “For the law, having a shadow of the good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with these same sacrifices, which they offer continually year by year, make those who approach perfect. 2 For then would they not have ceased to be offered? For the worshipers, once purified, would have had no more consciousness of sins. 3 But in those sacrifices there is a reminder of sins every year. 4 For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and goats could take away sins.” Hebrews 10:1-4 This is one of the many points of error found in the doctrine of Judaizers, such as the Hebrew Roots Movement. They mandate that people must observe the law. Quite often their doctrine is selective in that they mandate dietary restrictions, Sabbath observance, etc. But then they ignore the sacrificial system. However, the law is a codified whole. There is no observing it in part. It must be observed in its entirety. If Christ Jesus is the fulfillment of the sacrificial system (and He must be because they do not observe that system now), then He is the fulfillment of the entire law that demands a sacrificial system.   To say one must observe the dietary laws, Sabbath laws, etc., but that Jesus is the sacrifice for not observing these laws is convoluted thinking. It is a false presentation of who Jesus is and what He did. A debt for sin is owed. Jesus is the payment for all sin debt. Nothing else can satisfy the debt of sin. And so to mandate law observance makes no sense at all. This is obviously true with Gentiles who neither received the law nor were ever expected to observe it. But it is true with Jews as well. If Jesus fulfilled the law for Israel, which He did, then when they accept Jesus, they enter the New Covenant. The mandates of the Mosaic Law are ended.   Put on your thinking cap! Stay away from those who mandate law observance. To attempt to merit God's favor through the law will only lead to condemnation. All of that work... for nothing. What a sad and wasted existence. Come to Jesus and be saved. Then, live in the grace of God that flows from His completion of the law on your behalf.   Lord God, help us to understand that salvation stems from You alone. You have sent Jesus to do what we cannot do. May we learn this lesson and rest in the finished work of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Paul previously mentioned false brothers in Galatians 2:4, and then he discussed the fact that he had been in direct communication with other apostles like James, Peter, and John. In Galatians 5:2, he specifically states that “I, Paul, say to you…” And here in Galatians 6:11, he draws attention to his own handwriting. It is likely that the recipients would have been able to recognize his handwriting and they could be assured that this letter of such strong rebuke against the Judaizers was indeed from Paul. This is also an example of Paul wanting to openly and honestly take ownership of these statements. This surely would be an encouragement to the recipients and it should be so for us today to stand behind what we say and write.

Topics: Unity or Division in Early Church, Debate on Circumcision, Faith by Grace Alone vs Law, James' Leadership, James' Letter to Gentiles, Paul's Missionary Journeys, Jerusalem Council Decisions, Role of Pharisees, Peter Defends Grace, Gentile Inclusion, Tensions Between Believers, Impact of Council of Jerusalem, Paul's Response to James' Demands, Four Mosaic Commandments Debate, Mixing Covenants, Paul Preaches Christ Alone, Apostolic Unity and Disunity, Old Testament Influence on Early Church, Peter on Faith and Grace Alone, Paul's Evangelism Focus was Jesus, Timothy's Circumcision, Nazarite Vow in Acts 18 and Acts 21, Jewish Zealots Attack Paul, Accusations in Jerusalem by Judaizers, Gentiles in the Temple, Grace vs Law Believers in Jesus, Acts Chapter 15-21, Acts 15:11, Acts 15:19, Acts 15:29, Acts 16:3, Acts 16:4, Acts 21:20, Acts 21:23-24, Acts 21:28, Acts 21:40, Acts 22:1Was James Being Legalistic in Acts 15 and Acts 21?Facebook Post: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19hR1tunhy/Did Paul Deliver the Acts 15 Letter to EVERY town He Visited?Facebook Post: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DjFXF8HVP/A Once-Sided Decision of Pushing Law into GraceFacebook Post: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1868xNvjj7/Send Matt a text about this episode!Support the showSign up for Matt's free daily devotional! https://mattmcmillen.com/newsletter

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Topics: Justification, James, Pastoral Dominance, Acts 15, Acts 21, Abraham and Rahab, Council of Jerusalem, Response of Faith, Judaizers in Antioch, Peter Not Eating With Gentiles, James Disagreeing Gospel is Grace Alone, Error of Pastors in Charge at Church, Church History, Lies or Error, Grace Narratives on James, Twisting Scripture on James, Acts 15:19-29, Galatians 2:16, Romans 4:5, Yoke of Slavery on Gentiles, Works Don't Justify Anyone, Error of Showing Faith is Genuine, Genesis 15:6, Joshua 2, Justified in Front of Men, James Pressured Paul, Cleanse Your Hands, Purify Yourself, James Still Going to the Temple, Love One Another, Don't Create Factions Over JamesSend Matt a text about this episode!Support the showSign up for Matt's free daily devotional! https://mattmcmillen.com/newsletter

Paul wrote to the Galatians with the motivation to help turn them back to grace and the ministry of the Spirit that he had introduced to them. They had come freely to Christ by faith alone and received the Spirit apart from works ... but they would later be solicited by believing Jews who warned them they also needed certain applications from the law of Moses—starting with circumcision. It got us thinking about a question that may be difficult to answer: What if they had never been approached by the Judaizers who were baiting them into adding law/works to faith? Would they have continued on the path of grace by faith alone as Paul had ministered to them? Or would they have drifted towards feeling the need to establish or maintain their own righteousness without any outside persuasion? In other words, as humans, are elements of legalism and fleshed-based works unavoidable in this world? As God's creation, we are faced with many choices. Ask yourself, do you believe confidently in what God did through the gift of His Son, Jesus Christ, to bring you life and a righteous perfection ... or do you feel it was deficient and uncertain enough for you to work at adding something to it? It may even be something related to church ceremonial practices. Will we listen to the witness from within or the wide array of audible voices from outside? --Available on Amazon - "Clash of The Covenants: Escaping Religious Bondage Through the Grace Guarantee" https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0713ZSKY7

Original Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W9HfH18W_QI Dr. E. Michael Jones is a prolific Catholic writer, lecturer, journalist, and Editor of Culture Wars Magazine who seeks to defend traditional Catholic teachings and values from those seeking to undermine them. ——— The Jewish Revolutionary Spirit by E. Michael Jones: https://www.fidelitypress.org/book-products/the-jewish-revolutionary-spirit Dr. Jones Books: fidelitypress.org/ Subscribe to Culture Wars Magazine: culturewars.com Donate: culturewars.com/donate Follow: https://culturewars.com/links