The Lure of Legalism

Scripture and Questions for Study and Reflection: Read Galatians 1.

1. In today’s passage, Paul is speaking against a false gospel preached by missionaries sometimes referred to as “Judaizers.” Why do you think they were called “Judaizers”? Why does Idleman call the gospel they preach a “Jesus-Plus” gospel?

2. Why do you think Paul is so “astonished” at the way the Galatians are receiving the Judaizer’s message? In what way is the Gospel Paul preached so much better?

3. In this week’s study guide, Idleman says, “By returning to the moral aspects of the Law, the Galatians were committing treason against God and the freedom they had received through faith in Jesus Christ.” What does he mean by that? Do you agree? Why/why not?

4. Read Romans 8:1-4. How does that relate to today’s passage?

5. Idleman gives two reasons for the “Lure of Legalism” we all tend to experience now and then. Do you remember those two reasons? Do you agree with them? Which one resonates with you the most?

6. Idleman tells a story of a man, with a prodigal daughter, who said, “We raised her in church but we didn’t raise her in Christ.” What did he mean by that? How does that story relate to today’s passage? Can you relate?

7. What are “Embedded Theologies”? In what ways were the Judaizers influenced by embedded theologies? What embedded theologies do you have that might need to be rethought?

8. Have you ever acted like a Judaizer? Have you ever tried to put a “Jesus- Plus” theological yoke on someone? If so, when? Why? Has anyone ever tried to do that to you?

9. What has happened in Paul’s life that makes his testimony about the Gospel so much more believable and powerful?

Prayer for the Week:
Gracious and loving God, Your grace truly is sufficient. Forgive us for the times we try to earn Your forgiveness or try to make others earn it. Protect us from the lure of legalism. Remind us that Jesus truly is enough. His life, death and resurrection are enough. Through our relationship with Him we are new creations. Through our relationship with Him we are set free. Help us to truly live in that freedom, so that our testimonies might help others do the same. We pray all of this in the mighty name of Jesus, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever. Amen.