This is from April 30, 2019. The subject matter is related to our previous series on Unity, Diversity and Our Identity in Christ. Dr. Netland is one of my instructors and one of the readers putting me through my doctoral project. (Not sure why, but it doesn’t seem to want to start at the beginning.)
Paul’s letter to the churches of Galatia has shown us the importance of being set free from the laws demands. We’ve also seen how the cross frees us from the grip of sin – when we trust in Jesus and receive His new resurrection life. Only the cross of Jesus can free us from the burden of the law and the power of sin at the same time.
Consider these pairs of Polar Opposites: Plus and Minus, Night and Day, Black and White, Light and Darkness, Win or Lose, Right and Wrong, Life and Death, Heaven and Hell.
Now let’s add one to it: Law and Grace. Grace and Law should be treated as Polar Opposites; it’s vital that we see this difference for what it is.
Grace has been an important issue in the church since the earliest days of the church. Today we’ll read of an incident that happened in Antioch where Paul was serving. We’ll want to learn from it if we’re going to be able to show the same kind of grace toward others that God has already shown us. Grace is also important as the means by which we continue our Christian growth.
Central Reflections 