In Week 6, we will spend time in three of Paul's letters: to the churches in Corinth, Galatia, and Rome.  

In 2 Corinthians 8–13, Paul urges the Corinthians to give generously to support believers in need, teaching that generosity reflects God’s grace. He also defends his apostleship against critics who challenge his authority, emphasizing that his weaknesses reveal God’s strength. He encourages the church to recognize his genuine commitment and sacrifice for their spiritual growth.

In Galatians, Paul writes to counter false teachings that insist Gentile Christians must follow Jewish laws, like circumcision. He explains that salvation comes through faith in Christ alone, not by observing the law. Paul emphasizes freedom in Christ and the importance of living by the Spirit, which produces love, joy, and peace.

In Romans 1–8, Paul presents a detailed argument for the gospel, explaining that all people have sinned and need God’s grace. He describes how faith in Jesus brings righteousness, peace, and a new life empowered by the Spirit. Paul explores themes of sin, salvation, and the assurance of God’s love.

Let's enter into our rhythm of LEARN, READ, INTERACT.

From How to Read the Bible through the Jesus Lens, Michael Williams makes these points about Galatians:

Phrase: Grace versus legalism
Theme: God calls for rejecting the legalistic demands of the Judaizers and embracing the gospel of his grace.
Christ-focus: Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law so that by faith we could participate in the blessing given to Abraham (Galatians 3:13-14).
Implications: Let us live and serve in the joy of our freedom in Christ and not as slaves to the law (Galatians 5:1).
Questions: Do you think of yourself more as a human being or a human doing?  If faithfulness to God in the New Covenant is not measured by obedience to the law, how is it measured?

From How to Read the Bible through the Jesus Lens, Michael Williams makes these points about Romans:

Phrase: Death to life
Theme: Through Christ, God brings his chosen ones from death to life.
Christ-focus: Jesus died to sin and lives for the glory of God (Romans 6:10).
Implications: We have died to sin through the death of Christ, and through the resurrection of Christ we live for God's glory (Romans 6:11).
Questions: What harmful habits are you having a hard time kicking?  What is standing in your way to a more fulfilling life?

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