Sermons About Circumcision
An Illustration: Hagar and Sarah
Paul resumes his argument from the Old Testament to show that the Galatians are being wrongly enslaved by the false teachers. He points out that Abraham had more than one son, but only one was the heir, according to the promise. Hagar and Sarah represent the Old and New Covenants, Law and Gospel, slavery and free sons.
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Living in Line with the Gospel
False gospels produce pride and fear which destroy community. The gospel (we are accepted by God thru faith in Jesus' work for us) produces humility and security as a foundation for Christian community.
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Removing Barriers
Paul removes a stumbling block to the gospel without hurting the gospel itself.
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Ideas Have Consequences #2: Complete in Christ
Through the work of Christ on the Cross, God has made us complete in Him
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The Significance of Baptism
The Sacrament and Significance of Circumcision The Sacrament and Significance of Baptism
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Galatians 2.11-16: No more masquerading
The scene changes from Jerusalem to Antioch and the mood also changes as Paul confronts Peter. The reason for the public opposition is Peter's double-mindedness and double standards. He would regularly eat and fellowship with Gentiles (the uncircumcised), but as some Jewish leaders from Jerusalem arrive in Antioch Peter withdraws from the Gentiles. His hypocrisy causes others to wear mask as well including Barnabas. Andrew Peterson has said in one of his great songs, the church is the second coming of the Pharisees. At times, that is very true and so it was on this day in Antioch. May we apply and live what we profess to belileve. The gospel of grace, the soul of man and the glory of God is at stake. So, let's throw off the masks.
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When You Can't See the Sunshine
God is at work in seemingly ordinary circumstances. Look for God in the ordinary circumstances of life.
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Coming Full Circle
Circumcision . . . it certainly isn’t the hot topic of the average church pulpit. But, such was not the case in Paul’s day. This issue was at the center of most arguments between Jews and Gentiles during Paul’s gospel ministry. The Greeks looked upon circumcision with disdain and contempt. The Jews looked upon it as a badge of honor and blessing. Jesus Christ nullified both sides of the debate and made it clear that neither camp was right. Only the circumcision of the heart done by the operation of the Holy Spirit was acceptable. Listen in on this interesting subject to gain a better understanding why men are angry at God and why believers often fail to walk in the freedom that only Christ can give.
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