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Lesson OneGalatians: An Introduction to Paul's Epistles and a Survey of His Galatian Epistle5 Activities1 Assessment
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Lesson Two1 Thessalonians-1 Corinthians: Paul's Doctrine of Last Things5 Activities1 Assessment
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Lesson ThreeJudaism: The Religion Jesus Was Born Into5 Activities1 Assessment
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Course Wrap-UpCourse Completion1 Activity1 Assessment
Participants 77
Discussion Questions
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How is understanding the process of letter-writing in the ancient Greco-Roman world helpful to your study of the epistles found in Scripture?
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Understanding the process of letter-writing in the ancient Greco-Roman world helps Christians today to study the epistles and understand why and how they were written.
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It helps us understand why they were written and helps give us context for them. It is important to know where the writings come from and the reason they may be written in a certain way.
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Understanding the nature behind writing in the Bible gives a perspective we need as we dissect the words written. The context and time the letters were written enable us to greater understand to whom and why it was written so we can fully understand and grasp the meaning.
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To provides an understanding about the people and cultures involved in the audience.
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In this lesson, Dr. Blomberg briefly describes both a “hard legalism” and a “soft legalism.” How would you characterize the “soft legalism” he describes? Do you have a list of dos and don’ts for yourself and/or for others?
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As Christians, we should desire to have a good testimony to the world. We should also desire to grow in our relationship with Christ, developing the character traits listed in the fruit of the Spirit. We do need to be careful so that we don’t just follow a list of dos and don’ts, instead of seeking a vibrant relationship with God through His Holy Spirit.
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Soft legalism would be things we should or should not do as a believer, but not with the purpose that it justifies or condemns us. I think we all have that list, it often can cause problems amongst Christians which is not good, as they are not requirements for salvation.
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Soft legalism is the subjectivity that a believer can come up with to fully participate in the faith. This includes a list of do’s and don’t’s that are informally created to keep the faith.
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Soft legalism is adding details to what God wants from us. When we focus on details e take out the true meaning of what God is asking. He wants a heart that is surrendered to Him. A surrendered heart will act in accordance to His Will and not get hung up in a list a do’s and dont’s.
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Soft legalism is not a list of good works that are required to be saved. I think in some respect it is referring to the good works that follow as a result of salvation. I don’t have a list of do’s and don’ts for myself or for others.