Sunday School Lesson
May 15
Lesson 11 (KJV)
FREEDOM AND THE LAW
DEVOTIONAL READING: Galatians 3:18–29
BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: Galatians 3
GALATIANS 3:18–29
18. For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.
19. Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.
20. Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.
21. Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.
22. But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.
23. But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed.
24. Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.
25. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.
26. For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.
27. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
28. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
29. And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.
KEY TEXT
If ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.—Galatians 3:29
LESSON AIMS
After participating in this lesson, each learner will be able to:
1. Summarize what makes a person a child of God through faith in Christ.
2. Compare and contrast life under the law with a life of faith in Christ.
3. Write out the promises God has made to him or her as an heir.
HOW TO SAY IT
Galatia
Guh-lay-shuh.
Galileans
Gal-uh-lee-unz.
Judaizers
Joo-duh-ize-ers.
Introduction
A. All Skate
By putting on roller skates, a person’s movement is transformed as he or she glides across the pavement. One of the best settings for roller skating is at a roller-skating rink. In addition to being an easy place to skate, rinks often include colorful lights and engaging music.
Rinks might have times set apart for particular groups of skaters—times designated specifically for boys, girls, parents, grandparents, and so on. There may even be times for singles or couples to skate. After a few minutes of the special skate, the announcer proclaims over the loudspeaker, “It’s all-skate time! Everyone, come skate!” No longer does anyone feel left out. All skaters are welcome to participate!
In this week’s lesson, the apostle Paul made a sweeping declaration. This declaration invited all people to hear and experience the promises of God’s transforming good news.
B. Lesson Context
The Galatian Christians were a community of believers in the region of Galatia, located in modern-day Turkey. Paul’s missionary journeys took him through this region and its cities. Depending on whether “Galatia” is understood in a political sense or a demographic sense, it was during either Paul’s first missionary journey (Acts 13–14) or his second (16:1–18:22) that he first taught the gospel message to the Galatians (see 4:12–13).
The year Paul wrote the Galatian epistle is unknown. Some research has proposed that it was written as early as AD 48 or as late as AD 57/58. The latter would imply that Paul wrote this epistle after the Jerusalem Council described in Acts 15. If this were the case, part of Galatians includes Paul’s retelling of the council’s key concerns: circumcision as part of adherence to the Law of Moses (Galatians 2:1–10; see Acts 15:5). These same concerns were of importance among the Galatian churches.
The Galatians had received the gospel message from Paul (Acts 16:6; 18:23; Galatians 1:11–12), but there were some among them who tried to add to the message. These individuals taught that circumcision as part of adherence to the Law of Moses was a requirement for salvation; Paul declared that to be “another gospel” (1:6; see 2:14). Advocates for this approach were known as Judaizers because they called for Gentile believers to adhere to the distinctions of Jewish law. The Judaizers’ beliefs were understandable. From their point of view, Israel was and continued to be the distinct people of God. It was to Israel that God had revealed himself, given His law, and prescribed circumcision as a mark of His covenant (Genesis 17:7–14).
Paul urged the Galatian churches to reject the Judaizers’ addition to the gospel message (Galatians 1:7–9). Paul reflected on his own “exceedingly zealous” experience in Judaism (1:14) as he highlighted his inability to follow the law to the point of justification (2:15–21). Through Christ, the promise of salvation was to be revealed to the whole world (3:6–9). Paul went on to show the unifying nature of that salvation for all who would believe in Christ.
I. Inheritance
(GALATIANS 3:18–19a)
A. Given by Promise (v. 18)
18a. For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise.
That Paul began with for indicates a continuation of his preceding discussion on the inheritance from God (Galatians 3:15–17). This inheritance implies eternal life and being counted righteous by God—for those having faith in Jesus (see Acts 20:32; Hebrews 9:15). Paul’s concern was the means by which the inheritance was received.
If the promised life and righteousness came via the law, then God’s promises—especially His promises to Abraham—would be of little value (see commentary on Galatians 3:18b, below). The law’s role was not to provide entrance into God’s promise. The law, given to Moses, was introduced long after God’s promise (see 3:17). This fact provided a distinction for God’s relationship with His people; He desires relationship, not regulation. If God’s inheritance was received by following the law, then His promises would be of no value and faith would be irrelevant (see Romans 4:13–16).
18b. But God gave it to Abraham by promise.
God’s promise, made to Abraham centuries prior, designated a blessing (Genesis 12:1–3), a reward and heir (15:1–6), and a guarantee of descendants (17:1–8). In contrast to the demands of the law, God’s gracious act was in giving the promise. Ultimately, God’s promises would be fulfilled in Christ (Galatians 3:16). This observation led to Paul’s essential question, next.
What Do You Think?
How do God’s people live differently in light of God’s promises?
Digging Deeper
How do 2 Corinthians 6:16b–7:1 and 2 Peter 1:3–11 inform your answer in this regard?
THE AUDACITY OF FAITH
Unbeknownst to the girl, her father was quite busy. Little did she know the weight of her request when she asked him, “Do you promise you’ll come to my game?” Her father hated breaking promises, so he paused before answering. The demands of his day weighed heavily in his mind, but those demands paled in comparison to supporting his daughter. He didn’t make promises lightly. He could not and would not break his word!
The Old Testament tells how the Lord made promises to Abraham, an obscure herdsman in the ancient Middle East. Abraham was promised land, numerous descendants, and the presence of the Lord. The audacity of these promises required Abraham to accept them by faith—an equally audacious act. God’s word would come true so long as Abraham faithfully followed God in all circumstances.
Unlike earthly fathers, God never fails on His promises. Have you claimed God’s promise of new life? If so, how will you now live? Will the audacity of faith now guide your life?
—M. S. K.
B. Questions of the Law (v. 19a)
19a. Wherefore then serveth the law?
By asking this question, Paul anticipated the Galatians’ response regarding the promise. If God’s inheritance came through His promise, then why should people of God continue to rely on the law for salvation? The practice of anticipating the readers’ questions is common in Paul’s writings (examples: Romans 3:1, 3, 5, 7; 6:15; 7:7). It was his way of addressing their (assumed) concerns since he couldn’t be with them in person.
II. Law
(GALATIANS 3:19b–21)
A. Added for Transgressions (vv. 19b–20)
19b. It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made.
The word transgressions indicates a violation of a boundary. In this instance, the boundary transgressed is the law (see Romans 2:23). The law was added to reveal the nature and extent of human transgression (4:15; 5:13, 20). As a result, people became conscious of their violations (3:20; 7:12–13). Through the Law of Moses, the Israelites had common language for understanding their transgressions and enforcing discipline. However, the law’s application was limited as it served to reveal, rather than heal, transgressions.
The law would apply till a specific time ordained by God. Galatian Judaizers required obedience to the Law of Moses to become an heir of Abraham’s promise (see Lesson Context). However, Paul nullified their argument by noting a temporal aspect: the law was fulfilled by the coming of Abraham’s seed, Christ Jesus (Galatians 3:16).
19c. And it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.
The law’s inferiority was due, in part, to its mediated nature. While Scripture never calls Moses a mediator, God gave him the law and placed it under his care, as if in his hand (see Exodus 20:19–22; 21:1; 34:29; Leviticus 26:46). Other Scriptures indicate a belief that angels served a role in revealing the law (see Acts 7:53; Hebrews 2:2). However, God’s promise is without angelic mediation. Therefore it is more enduring.
20. Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.
That the law was given through a mediator did not strengthen its influence. In fact, the opposite occurred. The mediated nature of the law differed from God’s direct interaction with Abraham (Genesis 12:1). For believers, Christ Jesus serves as the mediator between God and humans (1 Timothy 2:5). As a result, there exists a new relationship between God and humanity, mediated through the “better promises” of Christ Jesus (Hebrews 8:6; see 9:15; 12:24). The law differentiated Jew from Gentile. But God is one and His people are one through faith in Christ (Romans 3:29–30; see commentary on Galatians 3:28, below).
B. Limitations of the Law (v. 21)
21a. Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid.
Paul again anticipated a rebuttal, so he cited a possible concern for the Galatians. The law and the promises are not against each other. Both are of God and both are holy (see Romans 7:12; 1 Timothy 1:8). However, each serves a different purpose.
The Greek phrase behind God forbid is a favorite expression of Paul’s (see Romans 3:4, 6, 31; 6:2, 15; 7:7, 13; 9:14; 11:1, 11; 1 Corinthians 6:15; Galatians 2:17; 6:14). It is an expression of emphatic rejection.
21b. For if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.
The law was never intended to give eternal life. This is why Paul emphasized that the giving of the law came years after God’s covenant and Abraham’s faith (Galatians 3:17). If righteousness could come by the law, then the work of Christ, particularly His death, would be “in vain” (2:21). As the law shows humans their sinful ways, it follows God’s holy intention (see Romans 7:7–10).
What Do You Think?
In what ways do Christians use good behavior to earn favor with God and with others?
Digging Deeper
What should be the role of good behavior and good works in the lives of believers?
III. Faith
(GALATIANS 3:22–25)
A. Promised in Christ (vv. 22–23)
22. But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.
It is unclear which scripture Paul has in mind. Perhaps he recalled the Law of Moses that called “cursed” those people who did not conform to “all the words” of the law (Deuteronomy 27:26). The law concluded that both Jews and Gentiles were “all under sin” (Romans 3:9), and all people were thereby guilty (3:10–18).
Because Paul declared that all were guilty under the law, all were unfit to receive life on the basis of the law. The imagery serves to contrast the law’s condemnation with the life provided by the promise. Only those who believe will be counted righteous. The righteous person will be considered a recipient of the promise (Romans 4:3, 13, 16), conveyed by the “seed” of Abraham, Jesus (Galatians 3:16, 19).
God’s plan never depended on the law. Through the faith of Jesus Christ—His faithfulness to follow the call of His Father—Jew and Gentile can experience the blessed promise of redemption. Those that believe become God’s children, regardless of their ethnic identity (see John 1:12–13).
23. But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed.
For Paul, faith was more than a person’s mental trust or a deep-seated hope. Instead, he attributed faith to God’s way of dealing with humanity. Jesus’ faithfulness in following His Father was the way God revealed His righteousness to the world (see Romans 1:17; 4:16; Ephesians 3:12).
Before Christ’s arrival, the law kept humans shut up. This might imply that the law served as a restraint, showing the extent of sin through Scripture (see commentary on Galatians 3:22, above).
Paul envisioned a new era of God’s working among humanity. This era was one in which God’s promise was revealed through faith. Paul drew demarcations between the era of law and the era of faith, with Christ’s faithfulness in His work being the moment of transition.
B. Deficiencies of the Law (vv. 24–25)
24. Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.
Paul’s next metaphor softened the description as he described the law as our schoolmaster. The illustration referred to the duties of certain servants in ancient Greco-Roman culture. These servants supervised the education of the household heir, keeping a close eye on the heir’s behavior, character formation, and discipline. Eventually the heir would mature and no longer need this overseer.
Similarly, the law was only needed for a time. It served its purpose until Christ came and brought an end to the law’s power for justification (Romans 10:4). The law could only do so much for humanity in regard to the promises of God. Humans could never be justified by the law (see Acts 13:39).
25. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.
Paul’s Galatian audience held that justification was a “both-and” construct. Their understanding of justification required both following the law and expressing faith in Christ. To that end, Paul highlighted the superiority and finality of faith in bringing justification. Now that faith has come, the law—serving as a guide—is no longer needed.
This fact is because the law has been fulfilled in Christ (see Matthew 5:17). Because the law could do only so much, God sent His Son to fulfill the requirements of the law (see Romans 8:1–4). What the law could not accomplish, God accomplished through Jesus.
ADVANCED COACHING
If a visitor came to the Feller family farm in Iowa during the 1920s and ’30s, the visitor was likely to see young Bob Feller (1918–2010) throwing a baseball with his father, Bill. While other boys were learning the family farm, Bob was under the focused tutelage of his father. As they played catch, Bob learned to be a skilled pitcher, undoubtedly set for the major leagues.
As a high schooler, Bob’s fastball pitch impressed numerous scouts. Before he turned 19, Bob signed a contract to pitch for the Cleveland Indians. As a result, he left his family’s farm and his father’s unofficial coaching to play in the major leagues. Had he decided to stay home, would Bob have experienced baseball success? Likely not. But because of his decision, Bob found great career success as a pitcher for the Cleveland Indians.
Whether they were fully aware or not, the Galatians had outgrown following every stipulation of the law. Paul taught that the law, while holy, could not bring spiritual life. Are you seeking life by your law abidance—trying to be “good enough” by your own efforts—or are you finding life in the one who fulfills the law (see Matthew 5:17)?
—M. S. K.
IV. Unity
(GALATIANS 3:26–29)
A. Resulting by Faith (vv. 26–27)
26. For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.
Previously, Paul had been speaking to an audience that would identify with his Jewish background, a collective “we” (see Galatians 3:23–25). Regarding knowledge and observance of the law, Paul was an expert (see Philippians 3:3–7).
Paul’s ye … all included every believer in his Galatian audience, Jew or Gentile. The Judaizers’ insistence on adherence to the Law of Moses was of great concern for Paul. Regardless of whether a person followed the law, all people could be considered the children of God. This was a phrase first used to describe the biological descendants of Abraham, those who were given the Law of Moses (see Deuteronomy 14:1–2). However, a new era had arrived, one in which God’s children were no longer marked by their observance of the law. Instead, they were marked by their expression of faith in Christ Jesus (see Romans 8:14–16).
What Do You Think?
How do children of God act in ways that make their status obvious to nonbelievers?
Digging Deeper
How can children of God support each other and bring about love and good works?
27. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
So the Galatian Christians might demonstrate their faith in Christ, Paul reminded them that they had been baptized into Christ. Paul often stressed the importance of baptism for the believer. Baptism unites the believer with the death of Christ and the glory of His resurrection (Romans 6:3–7). Further, baptism brought unity and a transformation “into one body, whether … Jews or Gentiles, … into one Spirit” (1 Corinthians 12:13).
The result of faith, demonstrated by baptism, was that Jewish and Gentile believers would become unified. To put on Christ implied putting to death the sinful nature and being renewed with a new nature, transformed by Christ (Romans 13:13–14; Colossians 3:5–14). The prophet Isaiah rejoiced when God “clothed me with the garments of salvation” (Isaiah 61:10). For Paul the garments of salvation were the work of Christ and the expression of faith in Him.
What Do You Think?
How do people identify with a sports team or a community organization when they wear those parties’ logo?
Digging Deeper
What steps can believers take to ensure that they identify with Christ?
B. Regardless of the Law (vv. 28–29)
28. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
The result of baptism into Christ is the formation of a new self in Christ (see 2 Corinthians 5:17). This resulted in unity with others also in Christ. To reinforce this reality, Paul upended notable social structures of a first-century audience.
First, Paul addressed concerns of ethnic divisions centered on the Law of Moses. Of main concern for a Jew was adherence to the law, most notably the law’s prescriptions for circumcision. However, the law would not have been binding for a Greek Gentile. As a result of God’s new economy of salvation, though, circumcision was no longer applicable for God’s people. The identity of God’s people expanded to include Gentiles (see 1 Corinthians 7:19; Colossians 3:11).
Second, the structure of the Roman Empire required an economy of slavery. In the structure of God’s economy of salvation, though, the servant in bond and the free person are equal; both find eternal life in Christ Jesus. Under Christ, a servant was counted as “a brother beloved” (Philemon 16).
Third, Paul’s statement that there be neither male nor female is not meant to disregard gender distinction or address fully the varied beliefs on the roles of men and women. Given his audience, Paul was likely addressing the limitations of circumcision. Both men and women, created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27), are baptized into the unified fellowship of believers.
Regardless of any differences, through faith all can become God’s children (Galatians 3:26). The children of God are one through the peace of Christ Jesus (see Ephesians 2:14–18).
What Do You Think?
How can Christians reconcile disputes that may arise due to differences in economic status, gender, or ethnicity?
Digging Deeper
How do 1 Corinthians 12:4–27; Ephesians 2:11–22; and Colossians 3:1–17 inform your answer in this regard?
29. And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.
Having confirmed the diverse yet unified nature of God’s people, Paul explored the implications of this diversity. All people who express faith can be a part of Christ’s body.
As a result, the promises made to Christ are applicable to all people who have faith (see Galatians 3:16). The promises made to Abraham’s seed are fulfilled through those people in Christ as they become heirs with Him (Romans 8:17).
Heirs according to the promise will attain more than an earthly heir might attain (see Galatians 4:7). Being in Christ implies having full access to the promise of His blessing. Further, it means His Spirit would be present in the lives of believers (see 2 Corinthians 1:20–22).
Conclusion
A. Time to Grow Up
It was time for the Galatian church to mature. First, they needed to acknowledge that they were no longer under the law as the way to attain God’s righteousness. They were heirs of God with full familial rights to God’s promises.
Second, they needed to realize that following the Law of Moses no longer marked the children of God. Jew and Gentile, rich and poor, male and female—all could inherit God’s blessing.
Is there something in which we place our faith that is other than the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ? Embrace Christ and live confidently as sons and daughters of God! When it comes down to it, do we stand with Paul on the bedrock that all believers are one in Christ Jesus?
B. Prayer
Our Father, thank You that we are Your children through faith in Christ Jesus. Help us to live in the freedom we have as heirs according to the promise of Your Son. Show us how to live in unity with all of Your children. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
C. Thought to Remember
Through Christ we are offered a life that the law could never provide.
May 22
Lesson 12 (KJV)
FREEDOM, LOVE, AND FAITH
DEVOTIONAL READING: Galatians 5:1–15
BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: Galatians 5:1–15
GALATIANS 5:1–15
1. Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.
2. Behold, I Paul say unto you, that if ye be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing.
3. For I testify again to every man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to do the whole law.
4. Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace.
5. For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith.
6. For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.
7. Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?
8. This persuasion cometh not of him that calleth you.
9. A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump.
10. I have confidence in you through the Lord, that ye will be none otherwise minded: but he that troubleth you shall bear his judgment, whosoever he be.
11. And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet suffer persecution? then is the offence of the cross ceased.
12. I would they were even cut off which trouble you.
13. For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.
14. For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
15. But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another.
KEY TEXT
All the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.—Galatians 5:14
LESSON AIMS
After participating in this lesson, each learner will be able to:
1. Identify the key tenets of a life free in Christ.
2. Explain the connections between the law, faith, and love.
3. Plan one way to serve his or her neighbors as a practice of living a life of freedom in Christ.
LESSON OUTLINE
Introduction
A. Spiritual Parenting
B. Lesson Context
I. Fight for Freedom (Galatians 5:1)
A. Accomplished by Christ (v. 1a)
B. Abandoning the Yoke (v. 1b)
II. Searching for Freedom (Galatians 5:2–6)
A. Looking to Law (vv. 2–4)
Fully Binding Agreements
B. Looking to Love (vv. 5–6)
III. Obstacles to Freedom (Galatians 5:7–12)
A. Persuasion (vv. 7–10)
B. Persecution (vv. 11–12)
Offensive!
IV. Paradox of Freedom (Galatians 5:13–15)
A. Denying the Flesh (v. 13)
B. Fulfilling the Law (vv. 14–15)
Conclusion
A. They Will Know Us by Our Love
B. Prayer
C. Thought to Remember
HOW TO SAY IT
amanuensis
uh-man-yoo-en-sis.
Hagar
Hay-gar.
Judaizers
Joo-duh-ize-ers.
KID’S CORNER
How God Makes Christians
Sunday, May 11, 2022
James 1:9-18
James 1:9-18
(James 1:9) But the brother of humble circumstances is to glory in his high position;
James wrote to Christians of every social status and walk of life, and he had a message for everyone. James encouraged the poor and lowly Christians by telling them that through faith in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior God had raised them up. God had made them brothers and sisters of Jesus Christ, and they now lived in the family of God. Jesus had filled them with the Holy Spirit and He had given them the fruit of the Spirit and various gifts. In the Church, a lowly slave in society could be gifted by God to become a pastor, teacher, elder, or evangelist in the Church, but he was not to consider himself better or worse than the ones he led and taught. Someday, the poor and lowly would go to heaven and be with Jesus until He returned; then, they would rule and reign with Him in a new heaven and earth. They were not to boast as an arrogant person would; rather, they were to tell others the truth about Jesus Christ and how Jesus had raised them up in several ways, even though they were poor by this world’s measure. In Christ Jesus and through His spiritual gifts, they had become spiritually rich, and Christ had called them to share their gifts with others and tell others that He would do the same for them and grant them eternal life, if they repented of their sins and trusted Jesus as their Savior and Lord.
(James 1:10) and the rich man is to glory in his humiliation, because like flowering grass he will pass away.
The Church included rich Christians. We know from the gospels that two rich believers in Jesus had provided His tomb and the spices for His burial after His death on the cross. In John 19:38-40, we read about Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, two rich men who cared for the body of Jesus after His death as the Lamb of God: “After these things, Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus, though a secret one because of his fear of the Jews, asked Pilate to let him take away the body of Jesus. Pilate gave him permission; so he came and removed his body. Nicodemus, who had at first come to Jesus by night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, weighing about a hundred pounds. They took the body of Jesus and wrapped it with the spices in linen cloths, according to the burial custom of the Jews.” No doubt some of the rich and powerful lost their leadership positions in the Sanhedrin and the synagogue and even their wealth after accepting Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.
The gospel of Jesus Christ can humble the rich when they learn how they need to depend on the leadership, teaching, and spiritual gifts of poor and lowly Christians in the Church for their spiritual growth. Depending on their spiritual gifts, some of them may be taught and led in spiritual matters by a servant in their home. They faced the fact that someday they and their wealth would disappear, but they too would go to heaven to be with Jesus because they trusted in Jesus and not in their wealth. James also wanted to warn them not to fall back into sinfulness. When Paul wrote to Philemon about his runaway slave, Onesimus, who had become a Christian through Paul’s teaching, Paul told him that Onesimus had now become his brother in Christ. In Philemon 1:15-17, we read, “Perhaps this is the reason he was separated from you for a while, so that you might have him back forever, no longer as a slave but more than a slave, a beloved brother—especially to me but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord. So if you consider me your partner, welcome him as you would welcome me.”
In the Book of Acts, we read of two rich people, Ananias and his wife Sapphira, who pretended to be followers of Jesus Christ. After they lied to God, they immediately died in the Church at the feet of Peter (see Acts 5:1-11). Every rich person will eventually disappear from this earth, their wealth will not save them, but every follower of Jesus Christ (rich or poor) will spend eternity with God and receive from God what we cannot even imagine. Through Isaiah and Paul, God promised rich blessings to those who love God, “But, as it is written, ‘What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the human heart conceived, what God has prepared for those who love him’” (see Isaiah 64:4 and 1 Corinthians 2:9).
(James 1:11) For the sun rises with a scorching wind and withers the grass; and its flower falls off and the beauty of its appearance is destroyed; so too the rich man in the midst of his pursuits will fade away.
The rich and powerful in this world can dress in splendor, own many homes, and control the destiny of thousands, if not millions of people. Some seek to control the whole planet! The Letter of James reminds us that they will come to an end in the midst of their busy lives just as the heat of the sun can bring a swift death to the grass and flowers of the field, or they may just wither away from sickness, from an unhealthy lifestyle, or from old age that their wealth cannot cure or prevent. Riches can become a snare and rich people can be tempted to trust in their riches instead of God, who is the Giver of every good and perfect gift. If the rich trust in their riches to save them, they will be disappointed, because their riches can be lost, and no amount of money can save them from some diseases and old age. Nor can they buy their way to heaven or earn their way through impressive charitable giving. Some of the rich and famous who have lost their worldly goods in this life, or their places of power and position, or their hope for a better future, have cut their lives short thinking life is no longer worth living. But taking one’s own life is not the answer, because at death unbelieving people simply change locations and forfeit the opportunity to grow in their faith and knowledge of Jesus Christ. In his letter, James warned rich Christians that they would face various trials and temptations as followers of Jesus Christ in this world, and he did not want them to fall into the temptation of trusting in their riches instead of trusting in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior in every situation.
(James 1:12) Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.
Whether rich or poor, those who endure temptation and do not sin are blessed or happy in this life and will be happy in heaven. Temptations of various kinds will come to all Christians. Rich and poor will face different, but just as deadly, temptations to sin and not believe the Bible with its promises and warnings. Some temptations will be severe; for example, persecutions can become so severe that the only things we can do are pray and endure. No matter what happens, with the help of the Holy Spirit, we can refuse to turn from faith in Jesus Christ and keep on trusting in Him. Sometimes, all we can do is endure our sufferings and surroundings and keep trusting in Jesus Christ as the Lord of the universe despite all appearances to the contrary. The Bible teaches that those who endure temptations can be happy that God gave them grace, the power of prayer, the love of God, the Holy Spirit, the presence of Jesus in their lives, the Bible, and wisdom to keep on believing and persevering when their suffering seems unchanging. During their trials and temptations, Christians can look forward with confident faith as they endure because they know that the Lord Jesus will reward them as He promised. They love the Lord more than their own lives in this world. They love Jesus more than the sins they are tempted to commit. They remember the words of Jesus in John 14:23, “Those who love me will keep my word, and my Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them.”
(James 1:13) Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone.
Some always blame others for their mistakes and sins. The Bible teaches people to take personal responsibility for their choices and ways of living. James warned against shifting the blame for our sins to others or to God. Even today in various ways, some attribute everything that happens to God. They say they do not blame God when evil occurs, or they say when God does evil that God does not sin. The Bible reminds us that God is so loving, merciful, powerful, just, and wise that God cannot be tempted by evil to commit a sin and God will not tempt others to sin. Nor has God preordained or planned every evil that has or will ever happen in this world. God did not and does not cause evil or sin, and God certainly will not tempt anyone to commit a sin or do evil. Since God has promised He will not tempt anyone to sin and God is not tempted by evil, we know that God did not preplan all the evil that has happened in the world or in our lives. God is loving, just, and merciful; therefore, God will execute just judgements in this world and in the next upon those who do evil, sin, and refuse to repent and turn to God. Obviously, not all the evils we experience are God’s judgements. We experience many evils because of what others intentionally or unintentionally have done to us or the consequences of our living in a fallen world unlike the good world that God originally created. When God executes a just judgement, God does not do evil—God justly punishes the one or ones who have done evil. God’s just judgements are always in accordance with God’s warnings in the Bible. When God extends mercy toward sinners, He does so according to His promises in the Bible. God the Father extended mercy to sinners with He sent Jesus into the world to live, die, and rise again so He could be merciful and just when forgiving repentant sinners who believe in and trust Jesus. Among other expressions of God’s character, God’s justice (or just punishment) and God’s mercy toward sinners by grace through faith in Jesus Christ express God’s love and truth. Just as Jesus suffered from temptations, but did not sin, temptations that come our way are not sins; rather, temptations are evil influences that can prompt us to turn away from God and turn to selfishness and sinfulness.
(James 1:14) But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust.
James pointed out that many of our temptations are no one’s fault but ours, for they begin within us. James did not philosophize or psychologize about human nature as some philosophers, theologians, and scientists have done for centuries; instead, he wrote simply so both the lowly and the rich could understand with divine help. The Bible teaches that God created people in His image with the ability to think, reason, experience emotions and desires, and make choices. The world, the flesh, and the devil can use our thoughts and emotions to stimulate our desires and influence us to take actions contrary to the way God made us and intended us to live. We can use our reason and choose to follow God and our conscience (and if we are Christians we have the Bible, its teachings, the example of Jesus, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit to help us do what is right), or we can choose to follow the ways of this world, our emotions, and our desires wherever they lead. As James warned in verse 15, the second alternative can lead to spiritual and eternal death. Before we turned to Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, we were slaves to sin and easily followed our desires, the world, and the flesh with the devil’s help. As Christians, after we are born again, we are not yet mature and complete as God intends to make us. Our desires can still entice us to sin; however, we are filled with the Holy Spirit and God has set us apart for a holy use and helps us live more consistently as faithful followers of Jesus (a process called sanctification). With the help of the Scriptures and the Holy Spirit, God has given Christians the power to follow Jesus and refuse to sin. God changes the direction of every Christian’s life when they are born anew and become new creatures, and James wants us to understand what can lead us to sin so we will be aware and prepared to overcome our temptations and keep obeying God when tempted to sin.
(James 1:15) Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death.
Jesus was tempted but always obeyed and pleased His heavenly Father. People can experience a desire to do wrong or be tempted to do evil, and they can turn to God for help to endure so they will not disobey God. Or they can use their minds and unreasonably conceive or think of a plan to fulfill their desires (usually involving someone else in their sins or sinning against someone else). After they have conceived a plan to sin, they can still turn to Jesus and ask Jesus to help them avoid following through with their plan to sin, or they can turn from Jesus and put their plan into effect. Sinful living, rebelling against God, or practicing evil will give birth to death, spiritual and eternal death, which includes separation from God and all that is good, true, and beautiful forever. James wrote his warning to help believers know how to avoid sinning by recognizing how temptations can lead to sin; then, when tempted, believers can turn from their temptations quickly before their desires lead them into the planning stages and eventually to practicing sin. If not repented of, living in rebellion against God and practicing sin will lead to eternal death—eternal separation from God and all that is good.
(James 1:16) Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren.
The command “Do not be deceived” may relate to the preceding verses regarding temptation and sin, or stand alone as a dire warning in general, or relate to the verses that follow verse 16. Both Christians and unbelievers are susceptible to deception and deceivers. No one should deceive themselves into thinking they can continue to practice sin and not receive the wages of or consequences of sin—death (see also Romans 6:23). No one should be deceived into thinking that the “gifts” of devils and those who do evil are gifts from God. James offered these severe warnings to those he loved because God and he loved them.
(James 1:17) Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow.
Rather than doing evil, planning evil, or tempting people to do evil, God gives generously beyond what anyone can deserve, expect, or imagine. God gives perfectly whatever is best suited to each person. God inspires people to give generously and rightly according to His will. God gives light, which reveals reality, what is, and what remains to be completed. God’s light reveals what is outside and within a person. God shines His light from within true Christians out into the world to make new Christians. God is perfect light and God gives perfect light for perfect reasons. God will always do what is loving, just, truthful, wise, and merciful. God will never do anything that is unloving, unjust, or unmerciful. God does not and will not change His moral character and nature, and His warning that sin, when it is fully grown, gives birth to death is a sincere warning for all to heed.
(James 1:18) In the exercise of His will He brought us forth by the word of truth, so that we would be a kind of first fruits among His creatures.
Jesus Christ is the Word of Truth who came into the world in human flesh to save us and give believers eternal life. In John 14:6, Jesus said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Jesus came and dwelt among us full of grace and truth. The Bible is the Word of God written, the truth of God in written form. The Bible is also full of grace and truth that with the help of the Holy Spirit will lead sinners to repent of their sins and receive Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. When people come to true faith in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior, they are born again; they become new people and receive a new beginning from God. They come to true faith because the light of God gives them understanding and the ability to read and rightly apply the word of truth (the Bible) to all of life. God chose to use Truth, the Word of Truth, as the means of creating Christians; so, millions have come to believe that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, is the Savior of the world and their personal Savior.
How God Makes Christians
Sunday, May 11, 2022
James 1:9-18
Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures (James 1:18—KJV).
In the exercise of His will He brought us forth by the word of truth, so that we would be a kind of first fruits among His creatures (James 1:18—NASB).
In fulfillment of his own purpose he gave us birth by the word of truth, so that we would become a kind of first fruits of his creatures (James 1:18—NRSV).
Jesus taught that in order to see and enter the kingdom of God you must be born of the Spirit (John 3:3-8). James explained that the Father of lights gives “us birth by the word of truth.” The Spirit of God uses the Word of God written to change lives, and the difference can only be described as a God-given new birth or new beginning. You can know if you have been born of the Spirit, because “everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God” (1 John 5:1). Believing “Jesus is the Christ” means believing “Jesus is the King,” Who God promised to send when He spoke through the prophets in the Hebrew Scriptures. If you bow before Jesus as your Lord and King, you know that you are born of God, because “no one can say ‘Jesus is Lord’ except by the Holy Spirit” (1 Corinthians 12:3). Those who are born anew will believe and obey the Bible; for they will “be doers of the word, and not merely hearers who deceive themselves” (James 1:22). James described his first readers as “a kind of first fruits of God’s creatures.” As “first fruits,” they were samples of what God could create in and through the lives of those who followed Jesus as Lord according to the Scriptures. The first Christians, who worked together in the New Testament Church, should serve as examples of what the Holy Spirit can bring forth when He applies the truth to the hearts and minds of those who receive the new birth. T
Thinking Further
How God Makes Christians
Sunday, May 11, 2022
James 1:9-18
Name ___________________________________
1. How might the lowly or poor believer be raised up?
2. What will happen to everyone? What will happen to rich unbelievers?
3. What happens after a believer endures temptations and passes the test?
4. Why do people sin? What are the consequences of practicing sin?
5. What is one of the things God uses that James mentioned that lead people to faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior? What are the types of gifts that God gives to believers?
Discussion and Thinking Further
1. How might the lowly or poor believer be raised up?
They may be gifted by Jesus and raised up as pastors, teachers, and leaders in the church. They will be raised up after they die and go to heaven.
2. What will happen to everyone? What will happen to rich unbelievers?
Everyone will die unless Christ returns before they die. No matter how rich they are rich unbelievers will die and leave all their riches and the false security of their wealth behind them.
3. What happens after a believer endures temptations and passes the test?
They will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised those who love Him.
4. Why do people sin? What are the consequences of practicing sin?
They are tempted by their own desires and/or emotions. The practice of sin gives birth to death.
5. What is one of the things God uses that James mentioned that lead people to faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior? What are the types of gifts that God gives to believers?
Truth. Good and perfect gifts according to James’ teaching in these verses. Of course, the Bible lists even more gifts in detail, but all God’s gifts are both good and perfect.
Word Search
How God Makes Christians
Sunday, May 11, 2022
James 1:9-18
Name __________________________________
P Z Y R T B G X G H R V O K Z
O S L U A J S N W T Q L G M G
X Y W H Q E C U I N S I N E R
P K O F J Z P D S H X F L Y L
Y E L W I S C P C E C E K I W
C T R R I E W U A T J R J U L
X W U I E T L C V S N W O R C
F S H A S W H D Y A I U V C B
E R M B E H O E H O K D H E S
L N A I W B E L R B L C L V B
M Z D H A M C S F S I I Z C K
I K Q U I Z F I G R E K D Q W
A H B W R L G B C V B U Y O S
V G L D J E T D E S I R E I Y
P N Y T R N S R N W B W J W F
Believer
Lowly
Boast
Rich
Disappear
Flower
Field
Scorching
Withers
Beauty
Perishes
Endures
Crown
Life
Desire
True and False Test
How God Makes Christians
Sunday, May 11, 2022
James 1:9-18
Name _________________________________
Circle the True or False answers. Correct the False statements by restating them.
1. Lowly believers should feel proud and boast often to others that they are better than rich unbelievers because they know Jesus. True or False
2. Rich believers should be humble and teachable no matter how rich or poor a faithful Christian is who teaches them about Jesus from the Bible. True or False
3. Proud rich people need to recognize that they will disappear someday like a flower in a field. True or False
4. Everyone will die someday, but believers who endure temptation because they love Jesus will receive the crown of life. True or False
5. Sometimes God tests people by tempting them to do evil. True or False
6. The rich in the midst of a busy life will wither away. True or False
7. God only uses the Holy Spirit to make a select few people that He chooses join the Church. True or False
8. God cannot be tempted by evil and He himself tempts no one. True or False
9. The truths in the Bible are so hard to understand that Bible truth does not need to be studied and is not really important to consider when a person thinks about whether or not to believe in Jesus. True or False
10. Unless a person repents and turns back to Jesus, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin. True or False
True and False Test Answers
- False
- True
- True
- True
- False
- True
- False
- True
- False
- True
Prayer
Our Father, thank You that we are Your children through faith in Christ Jesus. Help us to live in the freedom we have as heirs according to the promise of Your Son. Show us how to live in unity with all of Your children. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
