Publisher's Synopsis
We long for peace, to have lives marked by freedom from difficulty and pain. We look to countless places to fill this need—our possessions, relationships, intellect, spirituality, political affiliations, and so on. But, by relying on these things for freedom, we unintentionally make them our savior instead of Christ. This exchange leaves us enslaved to a false gospel and to the very things we hoped would set us free. In this 8-session study on the book of Galatians, author and Bible teacher Elizabeth Woodson reveals that the struggle to fully embrace our freedom in Christ is not a new problem. Walking verse-by-verse through Paul's letter, Elizabeth highlights how this letter teaches us that in the gospel alone do we gain what we desire—freedom from sin and freedom to experience true peace, living the abundant life Jesus offers.Features: 7 weeks of personal study to be completed between 8 group sessions 8 videos, approximately 30 minutes per session, available via redemption code printed in the Bible study book Leader helps to guide questions and discussions within small groups Charts, maps, and bonus content to enhance your experience Benefits: Grow in your understanding of the gospel and how it changes you. Walk verse-by-verse through the book of Galatians as you uncover all the truth it holds for you today. Recognize the false gospels you are believing in and how the true gospel of Jesus Christ sets us free. Come away with a renewed sense of the unity and belonging we have in Christ. Video Sessions:Session One: Introduction (27:58)—Elizabeth introduces the theme of freedom in Christ that will be explored through this study. She also provides an overview of the book of Galatians, including its historical, cultural, and literary context. Session Two: Paul's Defense of Gospel Freedom (24:37)—Elizabeth teaches through Galatians 1. In the first chapter of his letter to the Galatians, Paul shares about his testimony and early years of ministry to demonstrate that he is a trustworthy source and worth listening to. From his example we're reminded that our spiritual reputation and testimony can either hinder or help advance the proclamation of the gospel. Session Three: Freedom from the Law (29:58)—As she teaches through Galatians 2, Elizabeth helps us understand the extra burden some people in Paul's day were placing on the gospel and how to recognize similar false teachings we may encounter today. With boldness and courage Paul declares we are unable to earn our salvation—freedom from sin comes only through faith in Jesus Christ. Session Four: Freedom by Faith (28:07)—In Galatians 3:1-14, Paul clearly demonstrates why our sin makes it impossible for us to earn God's favor. As Elizabeth teaches through this section of Galatians, she helps us remember our inability to overcome the power and penalty of sin, as well as the freedom that comes by faith. Session Five: Free Through Christ (30:37)—This video teaching covers Galatians 3:15-4:7, which addresses the question: If the law can't save us, then why did God give it to us? Elizabeth unpacks Paul's teaching that the law did not replace God's promise to Abraham but was intentionally given by God to lead us to Christ. Session Six: Children of the Free Woman (30:26)—In Galatians 4:8-31, Paul's heart for the Galatians shows through as he cautions them against regressing in their faith and being deceived by individuals whose motives are not good. Then, using the story of Abraham, Sarah, and Hagar he provides a powerful finale to this section of his letter, demonstrating why our hope for salvation is not in our efforts but in the grace of God. Session Seven: Spirit-led Freedom (33:11)—As Elizabeth teaches through Galatians 5, she draws attention to how we can experience the freedom that comes from living by God's grace instead of our own merit. We are free from the burden of sin and are free to experience an abundant life full of love and joy. Session Eight: Live Free (25:18)—Elizabeth brings her study to a close with a walk through Galatians 6 and the reminder that when we stop trying to live on our own terms and use our efforts to achieve God's favor, we will experience tremendous freedom. The blessing and goodness we all hope for only comes through God's grace. But to experience this grace we must relinquish our personal desires and submit to the way of Christ.
