Paul argues he received his gospel first-hand as a revelation from the risen Lord. His lack of contact with the other apostles proves the divine origin of his understanding.
03 Not Man’s Gospel (Galatians 1:11-24)
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01 Podcasts
02 If Anyone Preaches a Contrary Gospel (Galatians 1:1-10)
In Galatians 1:1-10, Paul opens his letter by defending his authority and his gospel. He argues you can recognize the true gospel by its source and its substance.
01 Galatians Introduction
Galatians Introduction: Paul wrote this letter around 49 AD, about 15 years after the death and resurrection of Jesus to churches he founded during his first missionary journey. After Paul left, the Judaizers began teaching the Galatians they must keep the law to be fully Christian. Paul wrote this letter in response.
11 Handling the Lazy (2 Thessalonians 3:1-18)
Paul closes with with three directives regarding work: 1) follow Paul’s example of being willing to support himself; 2) work to meet your own needs; and 3) stop enabling those who won’t work.
10 The Lawless One (2 Thessalonians 2:1-17)
Paul reassures the Thessalonians that Christ has not returned because certain events must happen first. But they can take comfort that Christ will return to bring both justice and salvation for those who believe.
09 Handling Suffering (2 Thessalonians 1:1-12)
Paul encourages a suffering church by reminding them of the certainty of God’s justice and judgment. One day their suffering will end. But more importantly their faithful response through suffering is evidence that they will inherit a place in the kingdom of God.
08 Handling Community (1 Thessalonians 5:12-28)
Paul closes this letter with what appears to be an arbitrary list of exhortations. However, the list follows a theme, as Paul explains how a church community should treat each other.
07 The Day of the Lord (1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11)
Paul explains what it means to be alert, awake and prepared for judgment day: have faith. Christians know how the world will end and we do not have to fear it. Jesus died for us so that we might live with him.
06 Handling Work (1 Thessalonians 4:9-12)
Paul deals with a second issues related to how live as a Christian: work. His advice is strive to follow God, rather than impact the world.
Easter: Why the resurrection is important
On Easter we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. It matters whether something is real or not. It also matters whether an idea is true or not. The historical fact is Jesus rose from the dead, and it makes a difference that he did.
05 Handling Sexuality (1 Thessalonians 4:1-8)
In 1Thessalonians 4, Paul addresses specific questions and issues in the Thessalonian church. First, Paul addresses how Christians should handle their sexuality. Then he tackles work.
04 Investing in People (1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:13)
While Paul laments his inability to visit the Thessalonians, he rejoices over their faithful response to the gospel. Paul claims his crowning joy is seeing people like them respond to the gospel.