DNA Of A Dangerous Church - Day 03

Day 03 - Wednesday, August 14
Read Galatians 3

Highlight
This chapter focuses on reliance on faith versus the law. Paul argues that the law was a guardian of the Jews’ covenant with God until Christ came, but now that faith has come, we are no longer captive to the law. The law is what defined the Jewish people; it is what set Israel apart for the work of God. But now that Jesus has fulfilled the law through his death and resurrection, it is no longer Israel alone that is set apart for God’s redemptive plan for the world. Paul’s declaration in Galatians 3:28 is a profound statement about community: "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." This unity in Christ breaks down all barriers and divisions. The law is no longer a guardian for the Jewish people, and it is no longer a barrier between believers in Jesus no matter their background. The church is a people united under the banner of Jesus alone. This unity is not just theoretical but practical. It means we must actively work to break down barriers and love one another as Jesus loved us.  

Reflection & Prayer
For this reading plan we will be using a tool to guide our study of Scripture that’s called the S.O.A.P. Method.  It stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer.  We recommend you use a journal with this method and write out your thoughts on each of these areas for each day of reading.  It doesn’t have to be long-winded and you don’t need a fancy journal.  But for anyone that has not journaled before, the benefit is that it often helps us focus and avoid distractions during prayer and Bible study.

S.O.A.P. Method

Scripture - Pick a verse or two that stood out to you and write it in your journal. Be looking for a “Holy Spirit Highlight.” What did you read and think “I needed to hear that” or felt like it was written just for you?

Observation - Now write some observations about the verse(s) or passage. What is this passage or verse saying about God? About people? How is Jesus revealed in these verses?

Application - Now write a few sentences on how this passage applies to your life. Is there truth about God that you are to believe? Is the Holy Spirit convicting you of something you need to do or stop doing in light of God’s truth? Who could you share this story with and how God is speaking to you about it this week?

Prayer - Now write out a prayer to God in response to this Scripture. Be honest and express your heart to Him. God always listens and He delights in your prayers (Psalm 34:15; Proverbs 15:8).