Living under law or promise!

Topics: God's law, God's pomise

I. The law does not cancel the promise of God!

* Are you living in a relationship with God or following religious rules?

1. Brethren, I speak in terms of human relations: even though it is only a man's covenant, yet when it has been ratified, no one sets it aside or adds conditions to it. Now the promises were spoken to Abraham and to his seed. He does not say, "And to seeds," as referring to many, but rather to one, "And to your seed," that is, Christ (Galatians 3:15, 16).
2. And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her seed; He shall bruise you on the head, and you shall bruise him on the heel (Gen 3:15).
3. "By Myself I have sworn, declares the Lord, because you have done this thing and have not withheld your son, your only son, indeed I will greatly bless you, and I will greatly multiply your seed as the stars of the heavens and as the sand which is on the seashore; and your seed shall possess the gate of their enemies. In your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed, because you have obeyed My voice" (Genesis 22:16-18).
4. What I am saying is this: the Law, which came four hundred and thirty years later, does not invalidate a covenant previously ratified by God, so as to nullify the promise. For if the inheritance is based on law, it is no longer based on a promise; but God has granted it to Abraham by means of a promise (Galatians 3:17, 18).

II. The law is preparatory, the promise is eternal!

* Are you living in freedom of faith or the bondage of legalism?

1. Why the Law then? It was added because of transgressions, having been ordained through angels by the agency of a mediator, until the seed would come to whom the promise had been made. Now a mediator is not for one party only; whereas God is only one (Galatians 3:19, 20).
2. Is the Law then contrary to the promises of God? May it never be! For if a law had been given which was able to impart life, then righteousness would indeed have been based on law. But the Scripture has shut up everyone under sin, so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe (Galatians 3:21, 22).
3. Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death (Romans 8:1, 2).

Sermon by Pastor Rod Akins, November 10^th, 2024

Life group flow and discussion questions

"Living under law or promise!"

An important Guideline of Life Groups:? Many Christians struggle with obedience because they approach it as a legalistic duty instead of a longing for intimate fellowship with our heavenly Father. Discuss how your Life Group can inspire greater "promise living" and less "legalistic living."

Getting Started:

1. How would you describe your motivation in coming to church worship services? Have you ever viewed it like a duty or obligation instead of a desire to enter into God's holy presence with His family?
2. Why is obedience to God an important part of walking in freedom?

Discussing Truths:

1. How does the Law (God's Word) teach us how to obey God with a grateful heart?
2. Do you find yourself in an intimate relationship with God or do you feel like you're going through the motions?
3. What is involved in renewing our minds so we can live under the promise and not under guilt and shame (Romans 12:2; 2 Corinthians 10:3-6; Colossians 3:1-4)?
4. What are the promises of God that give you the most hope, joy and freedom in life?
5. How is the preparatory nature of the Law seen in the phrases "it was added" and "until the seed would come" (Galatians 3:19)?
6. Why can the Law not impart life or develop righteousness within a human being? How is the human heart transformed (Luke 8:15)?

Now What? Application:

1. What is needed to help you enjoy "love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith" with no condemnation as a child of God in Christ Jesus (1 Timothy 1:5)?
2. Will you meditate on Philippians 4:8 and seek to apply a "praiseworthy mindset" toward every person and situation you experience this week? Make it a godly habit!