Reflect

It’s tempting to think that, once we become a believer, life will be smooth sailing. Paul’s story is a good reminder that the Christian life isn’t easy. Maturing in faith takes time (Gal. 2:1). People may attack our beliefs. But God can use difficult circumstances to strengthen our faith, even allowing us to experience situations where we need to take a firm stand for the truth.

Even when he faced opposition from other believers, Paul held firmly to his convictions, standing up for what he knew was true and right. And we can do the same today, with the strength God gives us.

Respond

Can you recall a time in your life when you had to stand up for what you thought was right at the risk of looking awkward or even rude? What was it about your conviction that was so important?

Paul reminds the Galatians that we are justified (made righteous before God) not by how we behave, but what we believe. Have you ever struggled with feeling like you needed to behave a certain way in order to gain God’s approval? Write out Galatians 2:16a in your favorite translation and put it somewhere you can see it often, or use the provided graphic.

What are some of your old patterns or ways of thinking that have been put to death with Christ (Gal 2:20)? How are you living abundantly today?

Go Deeper

Learn more about Galatians 2:11-21 from our sermons series.