DNA Of A Dangerous Church - Day 04
Day 04 - Thursday, August 15
Read Galatians 4
Highlight
Paul uses the analogy of an heir and a slave to illustrate our new status in Christ. We are no longer slaves but children of God, and if children, then heirs. This new identity should transform how we live in community. Our identity determines our activity. In the case of the Jews in Galatia they have been freed from the law, but are still living as if they are subject to it. Paul’s exhortation is a beautiful example of the power of spiritual formation through community. He appeals to his brothers and sisters to stand firm in their true identity in Christ. Paul’s concern for the Galatians shows the depth of his love and commitment to their spiritual well-being. This is the kind of love and care we are all called to have for one another. We are transformed into something new by together lifting our eyes to the truth of God’s Word instead of drifting with the waves of our culture.
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).
Read Galatians 4
Highlight
Paul uses the analogy of an heir and a slave to illustrate our new status in Christ. We are no longer slaves but children of God, and if children, then heirs. This new identity should transform how we live in community. Our identity determines our activity. In the case of the Jews in Galatia they have been freed from the law, but are still living as if they are subject to it. Paul’s exhortation is a beautiful example of the power of spiritual formation through community. He appeals to his brothers and sisters to stand firm in their true identity in Christ. Paul’s concern for the Galatians shows the depth of his love and commitment to their spiritual well-being. This is the kind of love and care we are all called to have for one another. We are transformed into something new by together lifting our eyes to the truth of God’s Word instead of drifting with the waves of our culture.
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).
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