Preparing for the Lord's Day
In Galatians chapter three Paul begins by asking the Galatians, “Who has bewitched you?” Paul has spent the first two chapters defending his Apostleship against the attacks of the false teachers but now in chapter three, he turns his attention to defending the theological foundation of the gospel. He had preached the pure gospel of faith in Jesus Christ, but this message has been undermined by those who claim works of the law are necessary for acceptance and growth.
How could the Galatians believe such lies? Paul rhetorically asks if they have been bewitched. To be bewitched means that you have been placed under a magical spell that blinds you to the truth. Paul was not truly concerned that a witch had cast a spell over them. Rather he is pointing out that to turn from faith in the gospel to works of the law takes such a leap of inconsistency that the only explanation is bewitchment. How could they believe that works of the law would bring them into the family of God when they had already received the Spirit?
There are many falsehoods that confuse and bewitch Christians. Yet the word of God teaches us that it is by the work of the Spirit that we are accepted into the family of God, it is by the work of the Spirit that we grow in our relationship with God, and it is by the work of the Spirit that we endure to the end with God. To come prepared for the sermon take time this week to read and to meditate upon Galatians 3:1-5, Numbers 11:29, Acts 15:6-11, Romans 8:9-11, 1 Corinthians 2:12, and WCF 11.4, 13.1,17.2.
This week we will celebrate that sacrament of the Lord’s Supper during our worship service. As we receive the elements of bread and wine look in faith to the Lord Jesus Christ. For as we physically receive the signs of the Lord’s body and blood, spiritually we feed upon him and all his benefits. Our hymns for this week include “All People That on Earth Do Dwell,” “Jesus Paid it All,” and “Psalm 117” (sung to the tune of All Creature of Our God and King).
Our special music will include, Prelude (8:00) "Allegro from 'Water Music Suite' ", "Minuet", " 'Rigaudon' from Suite No. 5" by String Quartet (Elizabeth Matney-Violin l; Peggy Bettcher-Violin ll; Christopher Matney-Viola; Jonathan Matney-Cello), (11:00) "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing/Fill My Cup, Lord" by Doug and Julie Haley, Vicky Pogue, Offertory Anthem (8:00) "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing/Fill My Cup, Lord" by Doug and Julie Haley, Vicky Pogue, (11:00) "I Need Thee Every Hour" by Sanctuary Choir.
Text: Galatians 3:1-5
Title: Bewitched?
Outline:
- Every Christian has received the Spirit by hearing with faith. (vv.1-2)
- Every Christian must grow in the Spirit by hearing with faith. (v. 3)
- Every Christian must endure in the Spirit by hearing with faith. (vv. 4-5)