Objectives of the Study
- Understand the true Gospel of grace through repentance and faith.
- Recognize and guard against distorted versions of the Gospel.
- Deepen our appreciation for God’s sovereign work in salvation.
Session 1: The Foundation of the Gospel
Key Passage: Galatians 1:3-4
Grace to you and peace from God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so that He might rescue us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father.
Discussion Questions
- What do the terms grace and peace mean in this context?
- How does Paul describe Christ’s work in verse 4? What does this reveal about God’s will in salvation?
Session 2: Guarding Against Distortion
Key Passage: Galatians 1:6-9
I am amazed that you are so quickly deserting Him who called you by the grace of Christ, for a different gospel, which is not just another account; but there are some who are disturbing you and want to distort the gospel of Christ.
Discussion Questions
- What does Paul mean by a “different gospel”? How does he describe its impact on the church?
- Why is Paul so strong in his warnings (v. 8-9)? What can we learn from his repetition of the curse?
Group Activity
- Identify Modern Distortions: Brainstorm examples of “different gospels” in contemporary Christianity. Reflect on how these distortions deviate from the true Gospel.
Session 3: Repentance as the Gateway
Key Passage: 2 Corinthians 7:10
For the sorrow that is according to the will of God produces a repentance without regret, leading to salvation.
Discussion Questions
- In verse 4, what or who is God’s kindness, restraint, and patience directed to? How does this demonstrate His purpose in leading sinners to repentance? a. 2 Peter 3:19 The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not willing for any to perish, but for all to come to repentance.
Personal Reflection
- Read Psalm 51 and meditate on the steps of repentance outlined in David’s prayer. Share how this passage resonates with your understanding of repentance.
Session 4: The Process of Salvation
Key Passage: Ephesians 2:8-9
For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.
Discussion Questions
- Why is salvation described as a gift? How does this contrast with a works-based mindset?
- What role does faith play in the process of salvation?
Group Activity
- Faith in Action: Reflect on the relationship between grace, faith, and good works by reading James 2:14-26. How do these passages complement the teaching in Ephesians?
Session 5: Prevenient Grace and God’s Sovereignty
Key Passage: John 6:44
No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him.
Discussion Questions
- How does prevenient grace reveal God’s initiative in salvation?
- What is the significance of Titus 2:11 in understanding God’s grace as universal?
Application
- Identify ways to rely on God’s grace in your personal evangelism and discipleship efforts.
Final Reflections
- How has this study deepened your understanding of the true Gospel?
- In what areas of your life do you need to reaffirm the purity of the Gospel message?