The Gospel of the Kingdom in Galatians

Galatians sermon number 4 is on its way. 

As I prepare, not everything I learn makes it into each sermon. Here is a tidbit from J.V. Fesko that may or may not make it into the next message:


Galatians by J. V. Fesko

Three of the key topics that are covered by Paul in Galatians are Justification (by faith alone), Sanctification (as a work of the Spirit in the believer), and Eschatology (specifically regarding its reality for individual believers, whether Jew or Gentile). 

It may be a surprise to many to think about the idea that "The new creation does not begin at the conclusion of all things but in the middle of history." but when you consider this in light of how Jesus actually talks, it makes complete sense. Think, for example, of how Jesus spoke of the Kingdom. He would say that it is coming, but then he would say it is already here or in your midst. The repeated phrase, "...the kingdom of God (or of heaven) is at hand..." It is the Gospel of the Kingdom that we are to proclaim. It is a gospel of a kingdom that is now and is coming.

The question then becomes... as it was with the Galatians... who is in this kingdom? Who are the inheritors of the promises? Is it only those ethnic Jews who are followers of Jesus or are we all now a part of this great kingdom? Is there a distinction between Jew and Gentile? ... If you've read your Bible for any amount of time, you will know that there is no distinction between Jew and Gentile. Romans 10:12 (ESV) -- "For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek (Gentile); for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him."

This matters. Not simply as an aside to the Gospel, but as a main tenet of the Gospel.

First Baptist Church - Galatians Series with Matt Harmless

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