The Gospel According to Abraham (in Galatians) - Overview Part 2

We are looking at Paul's letter to the Galatian Churches and seeing how he understood the Gospel. In the previous Blog we examined Chapter 1, as an overview.  We now look at Chapter 2. In this chapter Paul shows us that the Gospel:

• Is a transaction that brings a person from slavery to freedom (v4);
• Is for Jew and Gentile alike (v7);
• Demands a certain behavior that is consistent with it trans-cultural application (v14);
• Responds to to works/lawkeeping but to faith in Jesus Christ (v16);
• Overpowers sinful self by promoting Christ actively living through the believer (v22a); and
• Is an intimate and personal expression of Christ's love for individual and real people (v22b).

Father, again we are bathed in the overflow of grace from Your Gospel. Your Gospel stands strong in the face of all racism and prejudice.  The goal of Your Gospel is to bring every tongue, every tribe, every nation around the worshiping throne of God -- all for Your glory. There is a behavior that just doesn't work in the Gospel.  There is no proud Aryan super-race.  We are all sinners destined for Hell, saved only by faith in Christ.  Anything I have done on my own has not only rendered me ineligible for salvation, but my so-called good works have contributed to my damnation. Father, your love is most deeply seen and experienced in the Gospel.  You did not send Your Son to die for nameless masses of humanity.  You died for actual sinners with actual names; and for those you died for, you loved.  My name was on Your heart on Calvary's Cross. What joy!  What grace!  Your Gospel has freed me from self-promotion and self-exaltation and self-sufficiency.  I am now free -- free to serve You with infinite joy -- free to serve You not bound by the restraints of sin.   Praise is Yours, Oh holy and righteous Father.  To You be glory for ever and ever, amen!