Introduction
The book of "Galatians" concerns the correct gospel - judaizing ministers had sought to return the believers under the old testament law - into condemnation of sin. Paul writes to vindicate the gospel, and show that the application of his own apostolic authority is well founded in Christ.
Again, you will require an open bible as I will not be including the verses. Enjoy!
Galatians
Chapter One
I write a little here about the error in the church over the issue of substitutionary sacrifice at the cross. God does not blame Himself for our sins. Equivalently we are shown two things from Jesus' obedient example (to death) based on Christ's own teaching and the reality of christian life. Chapter Two
Paul identifies the enemies of the Jerusalem christians as the jews - sent as spies for the authorities to find cause to arrest them. Paul rebukes Peter and shows how we have a better covenant of grace. Chapter Three
Paul writes extensively on the purpose of the law as to the new covenant of grace under a law of faith, not by works. He writes of Abraham and the promise of God made to His people through the fulfilment of the law by Christ. Chapter Four
Paul shows another example by simple allegory of the separate nature of the new testament believers from the old - as well as their doctrinal differences. Chapter Five
Paul encourages the galatians to remain steadfast in the liberty of the Holy Spirit and advises them strongly to eject the false teachers that had been bringing believers back under the law. Chapter Six
Paul closes His letter with some commandments to re-unify their fellowship, warns once more how to recognise false teachers and blesses those Spirit filled believers amongst them.
Ephesians
Chapter One
The first chapter concerns the revealed mystery of God's purpose for his Israel; and for his creation. Paul references it as he has taught it the believers already, but it is revealed elsewhere in scripture - mainly in the book of revelation. Chapter Two
Paul draws on the unity of the faith of the gospel showing there is one people of God - the spiritual Israel that is the body of Christ, the temple of God. Chapter Three
Paul explains how through the grace shown himself by God is the same grace extended to the gentiles - and that Paul is the principal minister to the gentiles, because he is the least of all the saints. He therefore shows there is neither distinction of jew or gentile in Christ. Chapter Four
Paul relates the nature of the unity of the faith and of spiritual gifts and their purpose - to keep the unity of the faith in the Holy Spirit. Paul gives some commandments to stop them splitting from that unity. Chapter Five
Paul warns the believers to continue walking in the Spirit and not in disobedience. He gives them sound commandments for keeping their marriages intact. Chapter Six
Some last commandments and encouragement - plus a confident statement that everything required to resist the devil, and the authorities of this world is found in Christ.
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