2 Thessalonians 3

1.  3:1-2 What were Paul’s prayer requests?
   Class Answers: He asked the Thessalonians to pray for them, that 1) the word of the Lord may run (spread rapidly) and be glorified; 2) they would be delivered from unreasonable (wicked) and evil men. Note: The Greek word for “unreasonable” also means “out of place, improper.”
2. 3:3-5 What would the Lord do for the Thessalonians?
   v. 3 – Establish (strengthen) them
   v. 3 – Guard them from the evil one. See also Matthew 6:13.
   v. 4 – Help them obey the commands – by working in their lives
   v. 5 – Direct their hearts into the love of (for, from?) God and the patience of (after the manner of?) Christ. [Paul’s prayer for them.]
   Note: This passage also prepares them for the admonition that follows.
3. 3:6-13 What seemed to be a problem in the Thessalonian church? How might a misunderstanding of Paul’s earlier teaching (1 Thessalonians 5:1-3) have led to this problem?
   Class Answers: Laziness, idleness – an unwillingness to work, being disorderly, busybodies – a repetition of 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12; 5:14.
4. 3:6-12 What commands does Paul mention in this passage? To whom are they given?
   v. 6 – Withdraw (keep away) from disorderly brethren. This command is given in the name of, or by the authority of, “our” Lord Jesus Christ. Note: Paul had taught them this in person (v. 10), in the  first letter, and now in this letter. If they still weren’t heeding his command, they needed to lose their fellowship and dependence on the other Christians. It would also diminish their influence on others who might also be tempted to live the same lifestyle.
   v. 10 – If any won’t work, they shouldn’t eat
   v. 12 – Work with quietness, eat your own bread (make your own living). If the early disciples lived communally, this might literally mean “bring your own bread.”  Note: This seems to be in the context of the church family, not dealing with the issue of someone who might not be part of the fellowship. It’s a matter of judgment whether or not helping someone financially is an act of love or enabling.
5. 3:7-9 What kind of model did the apostles leave with them?
   Class Answers: They worked night and day so they wouldn’t be a burden to the Thessalonians. This is also what Paul pointed out in 1 Thessalonians 2:9.
6. 3:13-15 List other instructions Paul gives to the Thessalonian Christ.ians.
   v. 13 – Be not weary in well doing (doing what is right).
   v. 14 – Note the man who does not work.
   v. 14 – Have no company with him (have nothing to do with them).
   v. 15 – Admonish (warn) him as a brother, not an enemy. It is not appropriate to gather into a clique and gossip about the brother (or sister), to treat him or her as “other.”
7. 3:16 How might verse 16 related back to verses 14 and 15?
   Class Answers: When each does his own job, peace is more likely. Peace is more possible when busybodies are not allowed to have influence.
8. 3:16-18 What is the distinguishing mark in all Paul’s letters? How are his greeting (1:1-2) and conclusion similar?
   Class Answers:  The distinguishing mark: His salutation with his own hand – his personal handwritten note at the end of the letter verified and gave the letter credibility.
   Note the “alls” in this passage: “May the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in all ways. The Lord be with you all [including those who may have been walking disorderly]…The peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.

Questions for 2 Thessalonians compiled by Cheryl Bryan
May, 2013

2 Thessalonians 2

Note: There may be as many theories about the meaning of the first 12 verses of this chapter as there are commentators. These questions are designed to reveal what the text says within the context of the Thessalonians’ situation and as a continuation of what Paul had written in 1 Thessalonians. As we answered them in class, we also tried to answer not with our opinions, which are colored by our viewpoints about the second coming of Christ – but simply by what Paul expresses in this letter. (We did allow ourselves a little time for conjecture and discussion after we answered all the questions.)

1. 2:1 What two related things does Paul now address?
   Class Answers: 1) The coming of Christ; 2) Our gathering together with him.
2. 2:2 What might the Thessalonians be told that might alarm or shake them? By what three means would that alarm be communicated?
   Class Answers: That the day of the Lord is at hand (sometimes translated “is already here”). 1) by spirit (or prophecy); 2) by word (report); 3) by epistle (letter). CB Comment: Some things never change; there will always be those who spread rumors as if they are the truth.
3. 2:3 What two things must happen before that day comes?
   Class Answers: 1) The falling away (or rebellion); 2) the revelation of the man of sin (or the lawless one). Note the use of the word the in both phrases – this is speaking of a specific rebellion, a specific man of lawlessness.
4. 2:3-4 List the descriptions of the “man of lawlessness,” or “man of sin.”
   Class Answers: 1) Son of perdition (destined for destruction); 2) Opposes and exalts himself against all that is called God (every so-called god) or worshipped (objects of worship). 3) He sits in the temple (or sanctuary) of God, setting himself forth as God (declaring himself as God). CB Comment: The phrase “son of perdition” is also used to describe Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Jesus.
5. 2:5-6 What should the Thessalonians remember? What do they know?
   Class Answers: They should remember that Paul told them these things. (Note the departure from the pronoun “we.”) They knew that which restrains, to the end that he may be revealed in his own season. (NRSV: …when his time comes.)
   Morris’s comment on this: “The Thessalonians knew; we do not.)
6. 2:7 What was already at work? For how long?
   Class Answers: The mystery of lawlessness (NIV: secret power of lawlessness). Until the one that restrains is taken away (NRSV: the one who restrains it is removed).
7. 2:8 What will happen to the lawless one?
   Class Answers: The Lord will slay him with the breath of his mouth and bring him to naught by the manifestation of his coming (will annihilate him by the manifestation of his coming). CB Comment: What’s important in this passage is the absolute sovereignty of God. When our Lord comes, anyone who would claim or appear to be all-powerful will be shown for what he is at the first appearance of the real Lord and Christ – like the self-important mayor of a small town diminished by the appearance of the President of the United States.
8. 2:9-10 According to what will the coming of the lawless one be? What will accompany his coming?
   Class Answers: His coming will be the working of Satan, accompanied by power, signs, and lying wonders (Morris: imitations of Christ on earth), all deceit of unrighteousness (every kind of wicked deception).
9. 2:10-12 Why does God send a strong delusion?
   v. 10 – Because they did not receive a love of the truth (they refused to love the truth). If they want to believe a lie, God will allow it. See also John 14:6; Ephesians 4:21.
   v. 11 – So they would believe a lie (what is false).
   v. 12 – They didn’t believe the truth but enjoyed unrighteousness (NIV: delighted in wickedness).
   Morris: They not only didn’t love it, they didn’t believe it.
10. 2:13 How did God choose to save the Thessalonians?
    Class Answers: By sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth, from the beginning (as first fruits). Again, Paul says “We are bound to give thanks” as he wrote in 1:3.
11. 2:14 How did God call them? For what purpose?
    Class Answers: Through “our” gospel (proclamation of good news), in order to obtain (or share in) the glory of Christ.
12. 2:15 What two things does Paul exhort them to do?
    Class Answers: 1) Stand fast (stand firm); 2) Hold the traditions they were taught either by word of mouth or by “our” letter.
13. 2:16 What have the Son and the Father done for us?
    Class Answers: They have loved us and given us eternal comfort and good hope through grace.
14. 2:17 What was Paul’s prayer for the Thessalonians?
    Class Answers: That Christ and God would comfort their hearts and establish (strengthen) them in every good work and word. CB Comment: It is not for Christians to be still and wait for Christ’s coming; it is for us to work, to study, to teach.

*CB Comment – my personal observations, added while compiling these notes. – Cheryl Bryan

2 Thessalonians 1

Purposes of 2 Thessalonians: To correct misunderstandings regarding the Lord’s return; warning against idleness; the nature of the second coming; what will happen to the wicked.

1. 1:1-2 Note differences and similarities between this greeting and the one in 1 Thessalonians 1:1.
   Class Answers: Differences: In 2 Thessalonians, he writes “God our Father, not God the Father. To “grace and peace to you” in 1 Thessalonians, here he adds “from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” Leon Morris (pg. 191) on this passage: The joining of God and Jesus are sources of grace and peace.
   Similarities: From Paul, Silas (Silvanus), and Timothy; to the church of the Thessalonians.
2. 1:3-4 For what four attributes does Paul give thanks or boast?
   Class Answers:
   1) Their faith was growing more and more
   2) Their love was increasing
   3) For their perseverance (steadfastness) through persecutions and afflictions
   4) For their faith through persecutions and afflictions
   Note: Paul says he is “bound to” or “must” give thanks because it is the right thing to do. Even if they don’t feel worthy of his praise, Paul is obligated to give it.
   Also note: In the original Greek manuscript (and 1901 American Standard Version), verses 3-10 are one sentence.
3. 1:5 How could persecutions and afflictions be evidence that God’s judgment is righteous?
   Class Answers: God provides strength in persecution; he didn’t leave the Thessalonians to their own devices. God was on their side. The Thessalonians were passing the test. They were working out God’s eternal purpose
   Morris (p. 196): “In the good providence of God, suffering is often the means of working out God’s eternal purpose.” It develops character. It teaches valuable lessons. For believers, it is inevitable. They are appointed (destined) to it (1 Thess. 3:3). Such suffering is a vivid token of the presence of God.
4. 1:5-7 What are three results of the Thessalonians’ perseverance and faith in suffering? (One each from verses 5, 6, and 7)
   Class Answers: v. 5 – They would be counted worthy; v. 6 – God would pay back the trouble they suffered; v. 7 – They would receive relief.
   Morris (p. 201) note on v. 7: “Now the Lord is hid from the view of the world, and it is even possible for people to deny his existence. But on that day he will be revealed in all his glory. He will be shown to be what he is.”
   This also reminds me of the revelation of Jesus in Revelation 1: Jesus with the flaming sword coming from his mouth, with eyes like flame of fire and feet like burnished bronze. Other references given in class were Revelation 19:1ff; 1 Corinthians 3:13; 1 Thessalonians 5:3.
5. 1:6-8 How does Paul describe God’s justice?
   Class Answers: This describes the other side of God’s judgment. v. 6 – He will avenge his people; v. 8 – He will punish the persecutors and those who do not acknowledge him.
6. 1:8 What does it mean to “not know God and obey not the gospel”?
   Class Answers: To not know God is to not acknowledge him or his power. See Romans 1:28. To not obey the gospel is to acknowledge his existence but to pay no attention to what he would want us to do. Morris: To reject the divine invitation.
7. 1:9 What is the punishment for those to whom verse 8 applies?
   Class Answers: Everlasting destruction – shut out from the presence of the Lord and from the majesty of his power. According to Morris (p. 204), the Greek word used here for punish comes from the same root word as right in verse 5 and just in verse 6. He is bringing them to justice. Morris again (p. 205):
   “Those who oppose the things of God here and now are not engaged in some minor error that can easily be put right in the hereafter. They are engaging in that defiance of the will of God which has eternal consequences. Life here and now has a high and serous dignity. In particular, facing up to the gospel invitation is a choice fraught with the most solemn and lasting consequences.”
8. 1:10 When will this happen?
   Class Answers: On the day he comes to be glorified. Believers will find rest, a shared glory with Christ.
9. 1:11 With that in mind, what is Paul’s prayer for the Thessalonians?
   Class Answers: 1) That they would be counted worthy of his calling; 2) That God would fulfill their purposes and acts.
10. 1:12 What is a more immediate purpose of Paul’s prayer for them?
    Class Answers: That Jesus would be glorified by them. That they would be glorified in Jesus. We reflect Jesus’ nature to others.

1 Thessalonians 5

1. 5:1-2 What did the Thessalonians already know?
   Class Answers: Times and dates, or seasons (Morris: times and opportunities). That the day of the Lord would come like a thief in the night. We can prepare, but we can’t know exactly when it will happen.
2. 5:3 How will the day of the Lord be like labor pains? (What is the day of the Lord?)
   Class Answers: It will be sudden, and there will be no escape. The term is used many times in the Old Testament, such as in Amos 5:18-20 (there is no escape). The phrase is found in the New Testament in Acts 2:20 (the Lord’s great and glorious day), 1 Corinthians 5:5, 2 Thess. 2:2. In 1 Corinthians 1:8, it is “the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.,” referring to the second coming of Christ.
3. 5:4-7 How do we protect ourselves against the destruction mentioned in verse 3?
   Class Answers: As children of the day, of the light, we know that the day is coming, and we prepare ourselves. We are awake and sober.
4. 5:8 What are characteristics of children (sons) of light?
   Class Answers: They are sober, with a breastplate of faith and love and a helmet the hope of salvation. The word “sons” or “children” indicates that these are inborn character traits. Notice here the “faith, hope, and love” mentioned back in 1:3. Christians walk in the light of the Lord. Contrary to the way the world might characterize Christians, we are actually the “enlightened” ones – the ones who see the world the way it really is.
   Regarding the word hope, Morris (page 159) states that New Testament hope is grounded in the divine action. (That’s why it’s a confident expectation, not just a strong wish.)
5. 5:9-10 What are Christians destined (appointed) for?
   Class Answers: For obtaining salvation, for “receiving” salvation – from our sins and from wrath. It is God’s work.
6. 5:11 What common (or similar) word do you find in this verse and in 3:2, 5:11, and 5:14?
   Class Answers: In the NRSV, the word “encourage” is used in all three passages. The Greek word used in 3:2 and 5:11 is Parakaleo (admonish, exhort). In 5:14, it’s Paramutheomai (Calm or console).
7. 5:12-13 What are our responsibilities to those who “labor among us” or “have charge of us in the Lord”? (NRSV)
   Class Answers: Those who work among us, have charge over us, and admonish us, which would include ministers and pastors, or elders. The apostles had appointed elders as early as Acts 14:23. It’s likely in such a young Gentile church as Thessalonica that there wouldn’t be many mature Christians, those who had years of experience as Christians. It’s significant that “be at peace among yourselves” is placed after such an injunction. Church leaders can do their work more effectively if they don’t have to solve squabbles among members.
8. 5:14-15 List the ways we are to treat each other.
   Class Answers: 1) Admonish idlers (the unruly); 2) Encourage the fainthearted; 3) Help the weak; 4) Be patient with all of them (even the idler); 5) Don’t repay evil for evil; 4) Seek to do good to one another and all. These define horizontal relationships – one with another.
9. 5:16-18 What is God’s will for us?
   Class Answers: 1) Rejoice always; 2) Pray without ceasing (continually – persistently and regularly); 3) Give thanks in all circumstances. These define a vertical relationship with God.
   Note: Regarding rejoicing, Morris (p. 173) writes: Christianity…turns people’s thoughts away from themselves and their puny deeds to the great God….”
10. 5:19-22 What should be our response to the Spirit and to the things people teach?
    Class Answers: 1) Do not quench the Spirits (Walk by the Spirit; be open to Spirit; 2) Do not despise the words of the prophets (either spoken or written); 3) Test everything; hold to the good, abstain from evil. See these related passages: Acts 11:27-28; 1 Timothy 1:18; 4:14; Revelation 1:3. It’s a balance between being open-minded and using discernment.
11. 5:23-24 What is God able to do for us?
    Class Answers: Sanctify us entirely; keep our spirit, soul, and body sound and blameless. God does it all for us, and He is faithful.
12. 5:25-28 What is a holy kiss?
    Class Answers: A genuine show of affection – not sexual, and not deceitful. The physical kiss is used according to custom. In the U.S., it’s usually a handshake. Other places where the term is used: Romans 16:16; 1 Corinthians 16:20; 2 Corinthians 13:12; 1 Peter 5:14.

1 Thessalonians 4

1. 4:1-2 What are at three motivations mentioned in these verses for living in the right way? (Hint: Who does it please, who is urging it, and by whose authority were the instructions given?)
   Class Answers: 1) To please God; 2) Because Paul was urging them to do as they had been instructed; 3) Because these instructions were given through Jesus.
   Note: The word instructions here is a little weak, because it indicates authority, as a captain giving an order. According to Morris (page 116), the word is found in only two other places in the New Testament as commands to believers: 1 Timothy 1:5, and 1 Timothy 1:18. The ASV uses the word charge in all three instances.
2. 4:3-8 What does being “sanctified” have to do with living a pure life?
   Class Answers: God calls us to be holy, set apart, which is the meaning of sanctified. Living a pure life – controlling our bodies – is what sets us apart from the “Gentiles who do not know God.” See also Romans 1:20-25.
   Note: Again, I like what Morris has to say here: Page 118: “The strong warning is probably to be understood in light of the prevalence of low standards.” Page 119: “We come to Christ in all our sin, and we receive cleansing by his atoning death. Then day by day we become more and more what God would have us to be.”
3. 4:3-8 Which members of the godhead are involved here?
   Class Answers:
   1) God. Verse 1 – please God; v. 2 – the will of God; v. 5 – Gentiles who do not know God; v. 7 – God calls us in holiness; v. 8 – Rejecting God’s authority; v. 9 – taught by God.
   2) Jesus – v. 1 – urge you in the Lord Jesus; v. 2 – by the authority of the Lord Jesus
   3) Holy Spirit. v. 8 – God gives you his Holy Spirit. In the Greek, this is “his Spirit, the holy.”
   Note: The word godhead is not used in this passage. It is the term used in Colossians 2:9 (KJV and ASV) to translate the Greek word Theotes, which means “the state of being God” or “deity.”
4. 4:9-10 How were they taught by God to love one another? (See John 13:34; 15:9)
   Class Answers: It was taught by Jesus verbally (John 13:34) and by example (John 15:9). Also see 1 Thessalonians 3:12.
5. 4:11-12 What three things does Paul encourage them to do? For what purpose?
   Class Answers: 1) To aspire to live quietly. [Interesting paradox – to “be ambitious” to be quiet.] Morris (p. 131) – this does not denote inactivity, but tranquility in the midst of being busy with the Lord’s work. 2) To mind their own affairs; 3) To work with their own hands. [These are all connected: When we are quietly taking care of our own affairs, we don’t have time to be busybodies.]
   The purpose? For reputation’s sake, to set a good example, to take care of our own needs so we’re not a burden on others.
6. 4:13 Who are those who have fallen asleep? Who are those who have no hope?
   Class Answers: Christians who have died. Apparently, the Thessalonians were concerned about those who died before Jesus came again. Morris, p. 137: “When the apostle counsels the Thessalonians not to sorrow as the pagans do, he is not urging them to endure with a deep Stoic calm the buffetings of fortune that they cannot avoid….Rather, he is rejoicing in the complete victory that Christ has won. Those who have died have simply fallen asleep in Christ, and they will wake with him.”
   Those who have no hope are non-believers. See Ephesians 2:12.
7. 4:14 What does this verse imply about those who have fallen asleep?
   Class Answers: That they are with Jesus – or will be, when he comes again. See also Matthew 24:31; 2 Thessalonians 2:1. Morris, pg. 140: “What worried the Thessalonians was not whether their friends would rise, but whether they would have any share in the great events associated with the Parousia [second coming].”
8. 4:15-17 Read these verses, form a picture of the scene in your mind, then try to describe it in your own words.
   My Answer: When Jesus appears again, he will shout a command, an archangel will call, and a trumpet will sound. Those who died in Christ will rise and meet him in the air. Then those who are still alive will rise to meet them and him. Related passages: 1 Corinthians 15:52; Revelation 10:1; 18:1; 20:1; Acts 1:11. There is no mention of the wicked here. They are mentioned, though, in Acts 24:15 and in Paul’s second letter to the Thessalonians.
   Note: There’s so much we can’t comprehend about this event. In response to all our questions, Morris (p. 142) writes: “There are many things we would like to know, but the Bible was not written to satisfy our curiosity. Rather, it is intended to help us in our Christian lives.” The important message here is “Be ready.”
9. 4:18 Where will Christians be when after the Lord returns? How long?
   Class Answers: With the Lord – forever.
   Note: As I understand it, what is referred to as “the rapture” is a quiet event. There’s nothing quiet in this description of Jesus’ Second Coming. I was also curious about the origin of the word “rapture,” since it doesn’t appear in any English translation I’ve read. According to Shogren, p. 188, the Greek word for taken or caught up in verse 17 was translated into Latin as rapiemur, a form of rapio, which in English is rapture. This same word, Harpazo, is used in Acts 8:39 for Philip.
   

1 Thessalonians 3

1. 3:1-3 For what reasons did Paul send Timothy to Thessalonica?
   Class Answers:
   v. 1 – He was desperate to know how the Thessalonians were faring in his absence. He and Silas could no longer stand not knowing.
   v. 2 – To strengthen and encourage them in the faith. To encourage them in their knowledge of their Savior and to make certain they were secure in that faith.
   v. 3 – So that no one would be shaken by the persecutions. He wanted the Thessalonians to know that these current afflictions were signs that things were as they should be, rather than the reverse.
   Note: Persecution is a common theme in the New Testament. In our progressively more secular society, we shouldn’t be surprised when we are criticized or judged backward, or even hateful, because we condemn sinful practices.
   Matthew 5:10-12: Persecution is a cause of rejoicing
   John 15:12-21: If we choose not to be part of this world, we will be persecuted.
   2 Timothy 3:12: If we desire to live godly lives, we will be persecuted.
   1 Peter 4:12-14: Don’t be surprised by persecution, but rather rejoice in it.
2. 3:3-4 What were the evangelists destined (or appointed) for ?
   The question should read, What are Christians destined for?
   Class Answers: For persecution. For the very afflictions the Thessalonians were experiencing.
   Note: More warnings (promises) of persecution:
   Acts 9:15-16: God told Ananias that he would show Paul what he would suffer for God’s sake.
   James 1:2: James tells his readers to rejoice in trials.
3. 3:5 Who is the tempter? How would he cause Paul’s labor to be in vain?
   Class Answers: Satan. (See also 1 Thessalonians 2:18.) If they succumbed to temptation, they would be right back where they started. He would undo all the apostles’ teaching. See 2 Peter 2:20-22: like a dog eating its own vomit.
4. 3:6 What was the good news that Timothy brought back to Paul?
   Class Answers: Of their faith and love. That they always remembered Paul and Silas kindly and they longed to see them. That the Thessalonians wanted to see and be with Paul as much as he wanted to connect with them, that they were continuing in the faith and love that he’d shared with them.
   Note: The Greek word for “good news”  here is Euaggelizo, usually translated “gospel.”  Also note the change of Paul’s tone: From concern to joy at Timothy’s good news.
   From Morris: “The combination of faith and love is no mean summary of the whole duty of Christians.” See also Galatians 5:6.
5. 3:7-10 What responses did Paul and Silas have to this news?
   Class Answers:
   v. 7 – Comfort. Even in the apostles’ own distress and persecution, they were encouraged about them through the Thessalonians’ faith. (This is the fourth time the word faith is used in this chapter.)
   v. 8 – Life. They now “live,” if the Thessalonians stand firm. Philippians 1:21 – For Paul, to live was Christ. Their faithfulness gave him new life, new energy.
   v. 9 – Joy. They couldn’t thank God enough for the joy they felt. Note the object of their gratitude – not the Thessalonians, but God. This was God’s work.
   v. 10 – Prayer. They prayed even more intensely that they could see them in person and strengthen whatever still might be lacking (to complete them).
6. 3:11-13 What are Paul’s three prayers?
   v. 11 – That God and Jesus would direct their way to the Thessalonians, clear the pathway to them.
   v. 12 – That the Thessalonians would increase and abound in love for one another and for all.
   v. 13 – That God would strengthen their hearts in holiness, so that they would be blameless. (NIV – blameless and holy)
7. 3:13 What does Paul write about the coming of Jesus?
   Class Answers: That he will come with all his saints (NRV), or “holy ones” (NIV). Commentators disagree on whether this refers to Christians who have died or angels. Morris contends that it is both. Hendricksen (page 93) ties it to 4:14:

Not a single one of [those who have fallen asleep in Jesus] will be left behind in heaven: all those who at death went to heaven – and therefore are now with him in heaven – will leave their celestial abodes at the very moment when the Lord begins his descent. Very quickly they will reunite with their bodies, which now become gloriously resurrected bodies, and will then immediately (together with those children of God who still survive on earth, and who will be changed “in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye”) ascend in order to meet the Lord.
This interpretation brings 3:13 into complete harmony with 4:13-18…. The coming is one; but it is a coming both with and for his saints.

1 Thessalonians 2

1. 2:1-2 What had Paul and his companions endured prior to coming to Thessalonica? What was their attitude when they arrived?
   Class Answers: They had suffered and been shamefully mistreated in Philippi (Acts 16:11-40). Still, they were courageous in preaching the gospel to the Thessalonians. Hendriksen’s explanation of “our coming to you was not in vain” (NRSV): Our message was not empty. When we came to you, our hands were not empty. We came to give, not to take. Shogren: “not without good results.”
2. 2:3-6a The appeal (urging) they made was not from error (deceit) or impure motives (uncleanness). (v. 3)
   They were not trying to trick them (or use cunning). (3)
   They spoke as men approved (tested) by God and entrusted with the gospel. (4)
   They were not trying to please mortals (men) but God (who tests our hearts). (4)
   They never used flattery, nor did they cover up greed (put on a mask). (5)
   They were not looking for praise from men. (6) (Quotes from NIV.)
   Note the use of antithesis: Not this, but that. In this list, Paul exposes the characteristics of false teachers: their motives are not pure, they use deception and flattery to persuade people, they are motivated by the praise of men, not the approval of God.
3. 2:6b-9 In what ways did the evangelists show their affection and love for the Thessalonians?
   Class Answers: 1) Though as apostles they could have made demands, they didn’t ask for praise; 2) they were gentle, as a nurse with her children; 3) they shared not only the gospel but themselves; 4) they worked night and day so they wouldn’t be a burden to the Thessalonians.
   Note on the word “apostles”: Though not of the Twelve, Silas (2:7), Barnabas (Acts 14:14), Andronicus and Junia (Romans 16:7), and James (Galatians 1:19), are referred to as apostles in the literal meaning of “messengers from God.“
   Note on the word “gentle”: According to Shogren, there’s a textual variant in the Greek word usually translated gentle. He chooses to translate this phrase, “we were as children.”
4. 2:10 What did the Thessalonians (and God) witness about their behavior?
   Class Answers: They were pure, upright, and blameless in conduct.
5. 2:11-12 What did the Christians know about how the evangelists dealt with them?
   Class Answers: They dealt with each of them as a father with his children: urging, encouraging, and pleading (imploring) for them to lead a life worthy of God – worthy of the death of Christ, being holy as God is holy. Hendriksen: “in harmony with their relationship to God.”
   Note: In verse 7, they were “gentle, like a nurse caring for her children.” In verse 11 and 12, they were more like fathers “admonishing” their children.
6. 2:13 Who was the source of the word they preached? What does the word do for those who believe?
   Class Answers: God. The word works in believers. See also Romans 1:16 and Philippians 2:13.
7. 2:14 What did the Thessalonian Christians have in common with their brothers and sisters in Judea?
   Class Answers: They suffered the same things from their compatriots that the Christians in Judea suffered from the Jews. See Acts 4:1-4; Acts 5:26; Acts 8:1; 1 Peter 4:4; and Jesus’ prediction that this would happen, in Matthew 10:16-25. Of this, Shogren writes, “When Jews or Gentiles receive Christ, they find themselves cut off from their former people and persecuted by them.”
8. 2:15-16 List the accusations Paul makes against the Jews.
   Class Answers: 1) They killed the Lord Jesus and the prophets (Matthew 23:37; Acts 7:52,53. 2) They drove out the apostles (Acts 17:5-9; Acts 9:29-30. 3) They displease God and hinder the Gentiles from hearing the gospel. 4) They constantly fill up the measure of their sins, or “always heap up their sins to the limit” (NIV). Hendriksen: God’s wrath had come; the woes would come later (1 Thessalonians 1:10). 
9. 2:17-18 What had hindered Paul from seeing the Thessalonians as he wished to?
   Class Answers: Satan blocked their way. Hendriksen: How? We do not know. But Satan exerts powerful influence over the affairs of men (Job 1:6-12; Daniel 10), and (from the class), God allows him this power for reasons we can’t always comprehend. It’s possible that Paul would not have written this impassioned letter to the Thessalonians if he had been able to see them in person.
10. 2:19-20 How were the Thessalonians Paul’s hope, joy, or crown?
    Class Answers: Because of their faith, they would receive their reward. They were children of faith who had exceeded Paul’s expectations. Their walking with the Lord is a reward of his walking with the Lord. A crown is a prize to boast about.
11. 2:19 What does Paul write about the coming of Jesus?
    Class Answers: Paul will be rejoicing when Jesus comes again. Shogren: “At Jesus’ coming, the Thessalonian converts will redound [contribute greatly] to the team’s credit.”

1 Thessalonians 1

Read Acts 17:1-15; 1 Thessalonians 1

1. 1:1 Who was with Paul when he wrote this epistle?
   Class Answers: Silvanus (Roman name for Silas) and Timothy. See also 2 Corinthians 1:19; Acts 15:22; Acts 15:40 and Acts 16:1,2. Note: I’m not sure of the significance, but it’s interesting to note that Paul addresses this letter not to the church in Thessalonica, but the “church of the Thessalonians,” which is in keeping with the personal nature of the rest of the letter. Note also his common greeting: Grace (Hebrew hesed) and Peace (Hebrew shalom).
2. 1:2-3 When Paul mentioned the Thessalonians in his prayers, what did he remember about them?
   Class Answers: Their work of faith, labor of love, and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. The words work, labor, and steadfastness, indicate a progression: from activities of work to exhaustive labor to persevering. Faith, love, and hope are also reflective of the closing verse of 1 Corinthians 13. Hope as the last word in the series indicates Paul’s theme for the letter. Note also the words constantly and always.
3. 1:4 What did Paul know about the Thessalonians?
   Class Answers: That God had chosen them, as shown in verses 6-9. It was the general consensus of the discussion that God does not choose us against our free will. If he did, what would be the use of all the instructions in the New Testament? It may be like one of us “choosing” all those with brown hair. Likewise, God chooses all those who choose to accept his offer of salvation. For more about election, or how God has chosen followers, see 2 Peter 1:10; 2 Thessalonians 2:13; Romans 9:11; 11:5,7,28; and my favorite, Ephesians 1:4.
4. 1:5 How had the gospel come to the Thessalonians?
   Class Answers: In word, in power (See Romans 1:16), in the Holy Spirit, with full conviction.
   Note: Another question might be asked here: What did the Thessalonians know? Answer: What kind of people the evangelists were.
5. 1:6 How did the Thessalonians receive the word? (What is the word?)
   Class Answers: With joy (in spite of persecution), inspired by the Holy Spirit. Persecution is temporary; joy is eternal. See also Acts 16:25; 5:41; Galatians 5:22.
6. 1:7 What was the result of the way they received the word?
   Class Answer: They became an example (NIV: model) to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia. The Greek word for example, or model, is tupoß (tupos), which is defined as “the pattern in conformity to which a thing must be made” (NAS New Testament Greek Lexicon).
7. 1:8 What two things had sounded forth, or gone out, from the Thessalonians? How are these two things different?
   Class Answers: 1) The word of the Lord (that comes from the Lord) – the Truth. 2) Their faith in God – Living the Truth.
8. 1:9 From whom had Paul and his companions heard of the success of the Thessalonians?
   Class Answers: From the people in Macedonia and Achaia. Apparently, the Gentiles in the region were talking about changes the Gentiles in Thessalonica had made in their pagan lifestyles.
9. 1:9 What kind of change did the gospel make in the lives of the Thessalonians?
   Class Answers: They had turned away from idols to serve a living and true God. They hadn’t just added another god to their worship. Also note that this was a conscious desire to serve only one God – which resulted in their abandoning idol worship. They weren’t just running away from paganism; they were drawn to God.
10. 1:10 For what were the Thessalonians waiting?
    Class Answers: For Jesus, for God’s Son from heaven. See Romans 8:25; this waiting is a “sustained expectation.”
11. 1:10 What does Paul write about the coming of Jesus?
    Class Answers: That he will come from heaven and that he will rescue us from the wrath that is coming. See Romans 1:18; Ephesians 5:6. Thus we are motivated by both fear and gratitude.

Galatians 6

1. 6:1 How does this verse expand on 5:22-25?
   Class Answers: If we are bearing fruits of the Spirit – if we are guided by the Spirit – we will seek to restore one who is *detected, caught, or overtaken in a sin rather than to shun or condemn, while being careful that we don’t succumb to the temptation ourselves. Note the word gentleness, which is also sometimes translated meekness: Sensitivity of disposition and kindness of behavior, founded on strength and prompted by love.
   *After-class note: The Greek word translated detected in the NRSV, caught in the NASV, and overtaken in the NKJV is Prolambano, which the NAS New Testament Lexicon defines as 1. to take before, 2. to anticipate, to forestall, 3. to take one by forestalling (him i.e. before he can flee or conceal his crime) 4. surprise, detect. It indicates that the sinner is not sinning with a defiant attitude but is either unaware of the sin or caught up in something she can’t handle by herself.
2. 6:2 How are 6:2 and 5:14 related?
   Class Answers: The law of Christ is love. “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself” (Galatians 5:14) is taught both in the Old Law (Leviticus 19:18) and the New Law (Matthew 7:2; Matthew 22:39 ). It is called the Royal Law in James 2:8. We try to lighten others’ loads just as we would want help, and just like members of our physical body come to the aid of other members. (The left leg bears more weight when the right leg is injured.) See also John 13:34,35.
   Note: The Greek word for burden is baros: weight or heavy load.
3. 6:3-5 What three attitudes are suggested in this passage?
   Class Answers:
   v. 3 – arrogance. Anything but personal humility is deceptive.
   v. 4 – making comparisons, judging
   v. 5 – being responsibility for our own work. (See James 4:17.)
   Note: The NAS New Testament Lexicon defines load  (Phortion) as 1. a burden, load, 2. of the freight or lading of a ship, 3. of burdensome rites, 4. of the obligations Christ lays upon his followers, and styles a "burden" by way of the contrast to the precepts of the Pharisees, the observance of which was most oppressive, 5. faults of the conscience which oppress the soul.
4. 6:6 What responsibility do students have toward their teachers?
   Class Answers: To share in all good things. A teacher’s greatest reward is to see her students take the lessons to heart, to see them grow because of the things they have learned. This applies to all teachers, but particularly to teachers of God’s word, because the lessons learned are so vital to life.
   In Philippians 4:14-19, Paul refers to material gifts he was given by the Philippian Christians. They also shared in his distress. As thankful as he is for their material help, he is even more thankful to see their generosity of spirit.
5. 6:7-9 What general truths does Paul reveal here?
   Class Answers:
   v. 7 – God is not mocked.
   vv. 7-8 – You reap what you sow, both physically and spiritually. Sin leads to destruction. Sowing to the Spirit leads to eternal life.
   v. 9 – Don’t quit trying. Persevere.
   See also 2 Corinthians 9:6-11.
6. 6:10 Why should spiritual family members receive special attention?
   Class Answers: It’s just natural that family members take care of one another, rely on each other. We look to each other for help, not outsiders. It’s also a sign to nonbelievers of our love for one another (John 13:35).
   The observation was made that at times we feel closer to our spiritual family members than our physical family. For example, we’ll draw closer more quickly to strangers at a conference of believers than we will at a reunion of physical family members who are not believers.
7. 6:11 Why do you think Paul emphasizes that he is writing this with his own hand?
   Class Answers: To make it more personal. It’s possible that up to this point, he had dictated the letter to a scribe, as mentioned in Romans 16:22.  But he writes this last portion himself, perhaps giving it more weight as his final warning to them to avoid the Judaizers.
   It shows his personal interest as contrasted with the Judaizers whose aim is to use the Gentile Christians for their own purposes.
   It’s also possible it alludes to a problem he has with his eyesight (Galatians 4:12-15)
8. 6:12-13 What motivated the Judaizers (those who insisted on circumcision)?
   Class Answers:
   v. 12 – For show – for a good showing in the flesh. They wanted to appear righteous to those who would judge or criticize them.
   v. 12 – To avoid persecution from the Jews for proclaiming the cross of Christ.
   v. 13 – So they could boast in their flesh. They could boast in their ability to get Gentiles to submit to the Law. It was all about them.
9. 6:14-15 What things are most important?
   Class Answers: The cross of Christ; being a new creature. Verse 16: The rule: boasting only in the cross, the peace and mercy that God would give the Israel of God (the church of Christ).
10. 6:17 What marks might Paul be talking about? (See 2 Corinthians 11:23-30)
    Class Answers: His physical suffering: whippings, beatings, stoning (Acts 14:19; 16:22.) They would be particularly aware of the beating he had suffered in Lystra, one of the Galatian cities.

Choose a verse from Chapter 6 to memorize (or to post in a prominent place).

Verses chosen were 6:2-3; 6:7, 6:8, 6:9, and 6:10.

Galatians 5

1. 5:1 What is the “yoke of slavery”?
   Class Answers: As a class member pointed out, the verse (in most versions) reads “a yoke of slavery,” so she answered (if I remember right) that this was any type of reliance on our ability to keep the law. In the context of Galatians, the particular “yoke of slavery” or “yoke of bondage” Paul is addressing is the Old Law. See also Acts 15:6-11, especially vs. 10, and Galatians 2:4.
         R. C. Bell compares it to a new master buying a slave and telling him, “I have bought you to set you free.” The slave wouldn’t think about going back to his former cruel master.
2. 5:2-4 Why does Paul condemn circumcision?
   Class Answers: He doesn’t condemn circumcision per se, but he does condemn having it done in order to gain approval from God. To be circumcised for religious reasons is to reinstate the Old Law, to subject oneself to the Old. Law. Circumcision is not part of the Law of Christ.
        Again, to quote R. C. Bell from his book Studies in Galatians (pg. 61-62): “Christian freedom has both a negative and positive aspect. Men are freed from some things and freed for other things…. God has worked out a unique plan by which Christ’s slave becomes his own master! Christ gets the essential law of life obeyed, human nature fulfilled, and his slave in possession of life abounding—all this without slavish drudgery or ‘dragging of feet’ on the part of the slave.”
3. 5:5-6 What two manifestations of faith are mentioned here?
   Class Answers:
   v. 5 – We eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness. See Romans 8:23. John Stott (The Message of Galatians) points out that we wait for it, we don’t work for it; Bell compares this hope to the crown of righteousness Paul mentions in 2 Timothy 4:8.
   v. 6 – Faith works through love. See John 13:34,35. A motive of love means we go beyond what the Law would demand.
4. 5:7-8 What does it mean to “obey the truth”?
   Class Answers: Stott writes that it means applying belief to behavior. Obeying the truth means we subject ourselves to the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. From Ed Wharton’s The Constitution of Christian Freedom: Legalism hinders submission: I have to do what is required, or commanded, nothing more.
5. 5:6-12 List 7 fallacies of legalism mentioned here. (Legalism: The effort to be justified through keeping the law.)
   Class Answers:
   v. 6 – In Christ, keeping the law means nothing. (NIV: It has no value.)
   v. 7 – It prevents us from obeying the truth, hinders our submission.
   v. 8 – It doesn’t come from Christ, the one who calls us.
   v. 9 – It affects others in the body. Wharton: It leavens the church with disobedience. Bell: This powerless form of religious would destroy the life of the church.
   v. 10 – It confuses us. Wharton: causes trouble.
   v. 11 – It abolishes (removes) the offense of the cross. The “offense of the cross” reflects back to Galatians 3:13 and the shame of the cross. How could we worship a God who was not only killed but went through a humiliating, excruciating death at the hands of lesser men?
   v. 12 – It agitates, unsettles new Christians. Wharton: It mutilates the body.
6. 5:13-15 Freedom in Christ gives us freedom to love one another and serve God. NOT to sin! It’s freedom from sin, not freedom to sin.
   Bell (pg. 66): “As the character of Christ proves, law itself and love are not incompatible; Pharisaic legalism, not law, is what contradicts gospel grace, truth, and love.”
7. 5:16-18 What conflict is described here?
   Class Answers: The conflict between the Spirit and the flesh (NIV – sinful nature). [I didn’t write down anyone else’s answer . Feel free to put a better explanation in the comment section.] Comment from Bell’s book: Flesh is not sinful; it’s just how Satan reaches us.
       We also had a discussion about whether or not we can be led by the Spirit without the Word. See Galatians 5:5; 2 Corinthians 5:7; Romans 10:17. The general consensus was that only the Word can reveal the will of God, but the indwelling Spirit helps us to carry out His will. When we follow our best impulses – which we can identify as “best” because of what the Spirit has revealed in the Word – we allow the Spirit to guide us.
8. 5:19-21 Below is the list of “acts of the sinful nature” from the NIV. Beside each word, write a synonym, either from another version or a dictionary.
   Class Answers:
   sexual immorality – fornication, adultery (NKJ)
   impurity – uncleanness
   debauchery – licentiousness, lewdness, indulgence
   Note: These first three are also condemned in the 7th of the 10 commandments (Exodus 20:14)
   idolatry – worship of an image or other material object representing a deity
   witchcraft – sorcery, magic
   Note: Idolatry and witchcraft also break the 1st of the 10 commandments (Exodus 20:2-3).
   hatred – enmities, hostility, animosity
   discord – strife, contentions, quarreling
   jealousy – resentment against a rival or against another’s success. It occurs when someone else wants to take something I own.
   fits of rage – anger, wrath, outbursts of anger
   selfish ambitions – quarrels, factions, disputes
   dissensions –strong disagreements, contentions or quarrels, discord
   factions – heresies, a party spirit (Stott), “a feeling that everyone else is wrong except those in your own little group” (New Living Translation)
   envy – a feeling of discontent or covetousness with regard to antoher’s advantages, success, possessions. Having to do with wanting other people’s things.
   Note: These have to do with our relationships with others, which would be covered in the 10th commandment (Exodus 20:17) and Leviticus 19:17-18 – “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.”
   drunkenness – given to intoxication
   orgies – carousing, revelries
   Note: Don’t overlook the “and the like” at the end of this passage. Legalism would say “If it’s not on the list, it’s not sin.” Wharton: We can make our own list. We know the difference between what is good and what is sin.
9. 5:21 What is the result of such a lifestyle?
   Class Answer: Loss of inheritance in the kingdom of God.
10. 5:22-25 Some would look at these verses as a to-do list as opposed to the “do-not” list in verses 19-21. How do we develop these attributes?
    Class Answers: By crucifying the flesh with its passions and desires, following the Spirit’s guide, not just by moral discipline. It is all based on love. Without love, the rest is not possible. Bell: The Holy Spirit is the only tree that produces this fruit.
         It is not a to-do list but is rather what we can reap when we follow the Spirit rather than our selfish desires.
11. 5:26 How does our opinion of ourselves affect the way we treat others?
    Class Answer: Being self-centered leads to competition and envy.

Choose a verse from Chapter 5 to memorize (or to post in a prominent place).
Verses chosen were Galatians 5:13b,14; 5:22; and 5:25.

Galatians 4

1. 4:1-3 How is being under the Law like being an under-age heir?
   Class Answer: As members of the class pointed out, the Law isn’t mentioned in these verses, but in context, that’s the subject of Paul’s discourse and the aim of this comparison. Though an under-age heir will one day benefit from the inheritance, as long as he’s not of age, he has no freedom, being subject to guardians and trustees. Being under the Old Law is like having the promise of an inheritance, but not the reality of the inheritance. The heir has no control, no freedom.
   
   “Religious legal systems are for the moral immature.” Studies in Galatians, R.C. Bell, pg. 49.
   
   Just as during a child’s ministry his guardian may ill-treat and even tyrannize him in ways which his father never intended, so the devil has exploited God’s good law, in order to tyrannize men in ways God never intended. God intended the law to reveal sin and to drive men to Christ; Satan uses it to reveal sin and so drive men to despair. God meant the law as an interim step to man’s justification; Satan uses it as a final step to his condemnation. God meant the law to be a stepping-stone to liberty; Satan uses it as a cul-de-sac, deceiving his dupes into supposing that from its fearful bondage there is no escape. From The Message of Galatians, John Stott, page 105.
2. 4:4-7 Name four blessings we receive because God sent His Son.
   Class Answers:
   v. 5 – redemption (for those under the law)
   v. 5 – full rights of sons, or adoption as sons (for you Gentiles.)
   v. 6 – The Spirit of His Son (Given to us)
   v. 7 – We are no longer slaves, but children of God.
   Note: All three members of the Godhead are mentioned in verse 6: God, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Also note the word Abba: The Aramaic word for Father – a personal, pet name. Now the Gentiles – for whom God was formerly far away – can address him personally, as their Father.
3. 4:8-11 How were the Galatians – who had been pagans – turning back to those principles by observing special days?
   Class Answers: They were being legalistic and ritualistic. They were superstitiously observing rituals as if the rituals saved them. They were enslaving themselves to those (Judaizing teachers) who were not gods. 
4. 4:10-11 Why is Paul condemning the observance of special days? (See Colossians 2:16-17)
   Class Answers: They were only shadows of things to come, according to Colossians 2:16-17. The observance of days does not bring salvation. They were judging and being judged by whether or not they observed days and by what they ate and drank.
5. 4:12-16 How had the Galatians welcomed Paul when he first preached to them? (See Acts 13:13 - 14:26)
   Class Answers: As if he were an angel of God or even Jesus himself. They would have torn their eyes out and given them to him if they could. Possible References: In Acts 14:11, those in Lystra at first wanted to worship Paul and Barnabas as gods. In Acts 14:20, after Paul was beaten and thought to be dead, he and Barnabas went to Galatian cities. Note on verse 12: Become like me – free – because I became like you when I was among you.
6. 4:17-18 Who were “those people”? (NIV) What motivated them?
   Class Answers: Judaizing teachers: In 1:7 – “some people.” In 1:9 – anyone who was preaching another gospel. In 3:1 – those trying to bewitch them. They were motivated by envy. They were trying to ruin Paul’s influence.
7. 4:19-20 What was Paul’s motivation?
   Class Answers: He wanted to “form Christ in them,” for them to be conformed to the image of Christ. Instead, it was like going through the pain of childbirth a second time.
8. 4:21-23 What was the difference between Ishmael and Isaac? (Old Testament reference: Genesis 16:1-2, 15; 21:1-3)
   Class Answers: Ishmael – born of a slave, in an ordinary way (NIV), or according to the flesh (NKJV), not an heir. Isaac – born of a free woman, a child of promise (Hebrews 11:11). His birth was not ordinary – Sarah was too old to conceive a child. (Historical Background)
9. 4:24-27 What symbols does Paul use for the two covenants? (OT reference: Exodus 19:1-6; 20:1-2)
   Class Answers: 1) Old Law – Mt. Sinai, Hagar, the present city of Jerusalem, slavery 2) New Law – Jerusalem above, free, children of promise. (Allegorical argument)
10. 4:28-31 How was the “physical” son persecuting the “spiritual” son? (OT reference: Genesis 21:8-10)
    Class Answers: Just as Ishmael taunted Isaac, those who were Jews physically were trying to persecute, or enslave, those who were born again spiritually. (Personal application)

Choose a verse from Chapter 4 to memorize (or to post in a prominent place).

Verses chosen were 4:4-5, 4:6, 4:7, and 4:18.

Galatians 3

1. 3:1-2 What are the answers to the questions Paul asks: “Who has bewitched you?” and “Did you receive the Spirit by observing the law, or by believing what you heard?” (NIV)
   Class Answers: 1) The Judaizers – the ones insisting that Gentile Christians should also obey the Old Law; Satan – through Jewish Christians. 2) They received the Spirit through faith.
2. 3:3-5 How were the Galatians trying to attain their goal?
   Class Answers: verse 3 – by human effort. From verse 2 – by works of the law.
3. 3:6 Why does Paul mention Abraham? Why was Abraham considered righteous?
   Class Answers: 1) Because he was their physical father. They were “sons of Abraham.” He lived before the law was enacted. 2) Because he believed God. Our works are proof of our faith as opposed to trying to prove our faith.
4. 3:7-9 Who are the true children of Abraham?
   Class Answers: Those who are his spiritual children, those who believe the promises of God. See verse 16: those who are of faith.
5. 3:10 What are the results of obeying the law? (CB Note: This question should have read: “What are the results of relying on obedience to the law?) What law is Paul talking about?
   Class Answers: 1) Being cursed, for no one can keep the law perfectly (Deuteronomy 27:26). The law can only condemn, it cannot save. 2) The Old Law – the “Book of the Law” – the Law of Moses.
6. 3:11-13 How did Christ become a curse for us?
   Class Answers: He hung on the cross – the sign of a man who has been condemned. See Leviticus 18:5; Habakkuk 2:4; Deuteronomy 21:23; Romans 8:3.
7. 3:14-18 To whom did God give these promises? What were the promises? (See Genesis 12:1-3)
   Class Answers: 1) To Abraham and his seed: Christ and all who are in Christ; 2) God will make him a great nation; He will make his name great; He will bless them that bless Abraham; all families of the earth will be blessed.
8. 3:19-20 What was the purpose of the law? How long would it last?
   Class Answers: From John Stott: “The function of the law was not to bestow salvation but to convince men of their need for it.” See Romans 7:7-10 – The purpose of the law was to define sin. 2) It would last until the Seed (Christ) came.
9. 3:21-23 Did the Old Law stand in the way of God’s promises? What was its limitation?
   Class Answers: 1) No. It reminded us of our sins, which only Christ could remove. 2) It held us prisoners to sin. It can not give life but is the antithesis of life. It couldn’t save, it revealed the sin that alienates God from man.
   Stott’s explanation of “But God is one”: In Christ, both Abraham and Moses come together, because God is one. To Abraham he gave a promise (Genesis 12:1,2), and to Moses he gave a law (Exodus 20). In Christ, both the promise and the law are fulfilled.
10. 3:24-25 What was the purpose of the Law?
    Class Answers: To act as a tutor (ASV), disciplinarian (NRSV), someone put in charge (NIV) to bring us to Christ. The Greek is paidagogus – a custodian, guide, guardian of boys, disciplinarian, like a strict governess. When a man is mature, he doesn’t go back to boarding school.
11. 3:26 How do we become “sons” of God?
    Class Answers: Through faith in Christ Jesus (not by physical birth). Ed Wharton: “full grown sons.” Stott: …who obey their father out of love, not coercion. By adoption, being made full heirs.
12. 3:27 How do we “clothe” ourselves in Christ? What does that mean?
    Class Answers: Through baptism, raised to walk in newness of life (Romans 6:1-4). It means we make no provision for the flesh (Romans 13:14). We envelope ourselves in Christ so that we look like him.
13. 3:28-29 In what ways does belonging to Christ unify us?
    Class Answers: We are one body. Our backgrounds no longer matter; we are all children of God, spiritual brothers and sisters.

Choose a verse from Chapter 3 to memorize (or to post in a prominent place).
Class choices: Galatians 3:21, 3:28, 3:29.

Galatians 2

1. 2:1-3 Who were Barnabas and Titus? What ethnicity were they? (See Acts 4:36,37; 9:26,27; 2 Corinthians 2:13; Titus 1:4,5)
   Class Answers: Barnabas was a Levite from Cyprus, who introduced Paul to the apostles in Jerusalem. He was a companion of Paul. Titus was a Greek (Gentile), who also traveled with Paul and later preached for the church in Crete. Even though Titus was a Gentile, he was not “compelled” to be circumcised, even though that’s what the Judaizing teachers would have desired.
2. 2:2 What was the gospel Paul preached among the Gentiles? (See 1 Corinthians 15:1-4)
   Class Answer: The gospel of salvation: the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ.
3. 2:3-5 Why did Paul want a private meeting with the church leaders? Who was trying to interfere?
   Class Answer: He didn’t want to be running “in vain,” to have his ministry rendered fruitless by the false teachers. He wanted to be able to speak to the leaders without the disruption of those were trying to take away freedom in Christ and impose slavery to the Law.
4. 2:6-10 What were the leaders’ responses to Paul’s
   Message - v. 6 – They added nothing to it. As far as they were concerned, the gospel Paul preached lacked nothing.
   Ministry - v. 7 – They saw he had been entrusted with the gospel to the Gentiles.
   Mission - vv. 9-10 – They gave him the right hand of fellowship, asking him only that he and Barnabas continue to remember the poor.
   Comment by John Stott: The meeting proved there was no rift among the apostles.
5. 2:11-14 How was Peter “clearly in the wrong”? What caused him to act this way?
   Answer: When men came from Jerusalem (or James), Peter withdrew from socializing with the Gentiles. In doing so, he was trying to force the Gentiles to live by Jewish customs. Why? He was afraid of those who came from Jerusalem – afraid of crossing them.
6. 2:15-16 By what are we justified? (Romans 4:1-3) Does this mean we’re not subject to any law? (See James 2:8)
   Answer: Not by observing the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. James 2:8 states that we are subject to the “Royal” law of Christ: to love our neighbors as ourselves. Obedience to commandments of Christ by itself doesn’t save us, but it’s evidence of our faith. How can God know we believe unless we obey, as Abraham did?
7. 2:17 In what way would Christ promote sin?
   Answer: If, while claiming to be justified in Christ, we willfully sin. But that’s not the case. Justification in Christ doesn’t give us license to sin (Romans 6:1,2). Trying to follow the law will make us lawbreakers, because it is impossible to keep perfectly.
8. 2:18 What had Paul destroyed?
   Answer: His old way of life, his allegiance to the Old Law. Why bring that back again? 1:23 – In the past, Paul had tried to destroy the church. So he had destroyed that life of destruction.
9. 2:19-20 How had Paul been “crucified with Christ”?
   Answer: Paul’s identity was gone; he was now living by faith. The old Paul/Saul was gone. We are spirits in a body, not merely bodies with spirits. If our will – our spirit – has been replaced with the Spirit of Christ, then that renewed spirit will be manifest in what we do with our physical bodies.
10. 2:21 How could Christ “die for nothing”?
    Answer: If we can be righteous through the law, then Christ’s death was in vain. Commentary: To mingle legalism with grace makes grace a mockery.

Choose a verse from Chapter 2 to memorize (or to post in a prominent place).

Verses chosen: Galatians 2:16 and 2:20.

Galatians 1

1. 1:1 Why should the Galatians listen to Paul?
   Class Answers: 1) Because he was appointed by God, not man. 2) Because he was an apostle; he had seen the risen Christ.
2. 1:2 Identify the churches of Galatia. (Acts 13, 14)
   Class Answers: Perga of Pamphyllia (Acts 13:13); Antioch of Pisidia (Acts 13:14); Iconium (Acts 13:51); Derbe and Lystra in Lycaonia (Acts 14:6-8). Paul was also in Attalia (Acts 14:24-26), which was a seaport, but there’s no indication that he started a church there.
3. 1:3-7 What is this “different gospel? Why is it really not a gospel? (What does “gospel” mean?)
   Class Answers: According to Acts 15:1, men from Judea were telling Antioch Christians, “You can’t be saved without circumcision.” In other words, Gentiles must submit to the Old Law before they can follow Christ. This is not a gospel – or good tidings – because it negates the cross of Christ, which made the Old Law unnecessary.
4. 1:8-9 What will be the consequence of preaching another gospel?
   Class Answers: KJV – Anathema. Other versions: Eternal condemnation – which makes teaching the gospel a serious responsibility.
   Note: The word anathema is oddly derived from a word that means “to consecrate or devote.” Anything devoted to God could not be redeemed and therefore would be destroyed. So the word came to mean “devoted to destruction.” Idols were “anathema,” or banned, in Deuteronomy 7:26. Where the NASV uses the word banned, the ASV calls it “a devoted thing”; the KJV translates it as “cursed thing”; and the NIV translates it “set apart for destruction.”
5. 1:10 What principle can we learn from verse 10?
   Class Answers: If our aim is to please men, we can’t also be servants (or slaves) of Christ.
6. 1:11 Paul calls the Galatians “brothers.” Why might this be significant, seeing they have “deserted” the gospel?
   Class Answers: 1) Even though they seem to be accepting false doctrine, they are still part of the spiritual family. 2) To demonstrate that he hadn’t deserted them. 3) The gospel is for all, received by grace.
   Note: According to John Stott’s The Message of Galatians, the Greek word translated deserting (v. 6) means to transfer one’s allegiance.
7. 1:12, 15-17 Why does Paul emphasize the lack of any man’s influence on him?
   Class Answers: In order for the Judaizers to discredit Paul’s message, they had to discredit him. His emphasis on his calling from God gave him the same credibility as the other apostles.
   More questions: How did Saul spend his time in Arabia? Did he receive private instruction directly from Christ at this time? Was he re-studying the Hebrew scriptures, viewing them in light of this new revelation? How could anyone know? It is interesting that the three years he spent before seeing Peter is the same time period the other apostles had spent in Jesus’ presence.
8. 1:13-14 Considering the consequences of his decision, how could Saul of Tarsus make such a radical change?
   Class Answers: Paul’s aim had always been to please God, not men. As soon as he knew the truth about Jesus, he was willing to change – and not privately – though, as pointed out in the previous question – he seemed to prepare for this for a long time. According to verse 16, he also knew from the beginning that God had a plan for him. Paul had the courage that comes from a sense of purpose. See also Acts 9:9-16.
9. 1:18-20 Why might Paul choose to visit Peter instead of one of the other apostles?
   Class Answers: 1) Peter was recognized as a leader in the early church. 2) Peter also had a great zeal for God. 3) Peter had been part of Jesus’ inner circle of apostles. 4) Paul had been called by God to preach to the Gentiles, but, as recorded in Acts 10, God had revealed the plan to Peter that the Gentiles were included in His plan.
10. 1:21-24 What was the response of the churches in Syria and Cilicia to Paul?
    Class Answers: The verses here don’t say. They do say that when the churches in Judea heard the report, they praised God because of Paul.
    Note: This question should have asked about the churches of Judea, not Syria and Cilicia. Also note: Cilicia was Paul’s home territory. I’m not sure if we read anywhere what their response was to his conversion.

Choose a verse from Chapter 1 to memorize.
Class Choices: 1:3; 1:6-7; 1:8; 1:10

Studies in Acts–Lesson 14

Read Acts 25:14 through Chapter 28.

Who said it – or might have said it? Where? When? Why?

Acts 25

1. "There is a certain man left a prisoner by Felix." v. 14. Who? Festus, to King Agrippa. Where? In Caesarea. When? While the King was staying in Caesarea, several days after Paul appealed to Caesar. Why? Possibly to find out Agrippa’s judgment in the matter.
Note: This King was Agrippa II, and Bernice was his sister – and his wife. Previously, she had been married to her uncle. Their father – Agrippa I – was the member of the Herod family that was eaten up by worms as recorded in Acts 12.

2. "For it seems absurd to me in sending a prisoner, not to indicate also the charges against him." v. 27 Who? Festus. Where? In the audience hall. When? The next day. Why? He wanted to know what to write to Rome about the charges against Paul. He knew Paul had done nothing deserving of death, so he was trying to explain his actions.

Acts 26

3. "You are permitted to speak for yourself." v. 1 Who? Agrippa to Paul. Why? So Agrippa could hear Paul’s side of the story. He was curious. 

4. "... especially because you are an expert in all customs and questions among the Jews; therefore I beg you to listen to me patiently. v. 3. Who? Paul to Agrippa. Why? He knew Agrippa’s background and wanted an informed listener. Maybe also a bit of flattery? Paul’s hope was in the promises of God.

5. “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.” Who? Jesus, to Saul, in Hebrew. Where? On the road from Jerusalem to Damascus on one of his journeys to arrest Christians. When? At midday, after Saul was blinded by the sun. Why? Jesus had chosen Saul to serve.

6. “In a short time you will persuade me to become a Christian.” v. 28. Who? Agrippa, to Paul, at the end of Paul’s speech. Why? It’s hard to know what was in Agrippa’s mind. In some versions, this is stated as a question, as if to ask Paul his intentions. In other versions, it’s a statement – either honest or in derision.

 

Acts 27

7. "And when it was decided that we should sail for Italy…." v. 1. Who? Luke. Where? Caesarea. Why? Paul was headed for Rome – at government expense. According to Don DeWelt’s Acts Made Actual, this was probably in late August.

8. “You may go to your friends.” v. 3. Who? Julius, the centurion, to Paul. When? When the ship docked in Sidon. Why? So they could care for Paul. Note: It appears they traveled 65 miles that first day.

9. “Men, I perceive that the voyage will certainly be attended with damage and great loss….” v. 10 Who? Paul, to the centurion and sailors. Where? Near Lasea. When? According to commentaries, October. Why? He perceived there would be danger if they continued. Also, according to commentaries, sailing after September 15 was dangerous.

10. “…you must stand before Caesar….” v. 24. Who? An angel of God, to Paul. Where? On the ship at Paul’s bed. When? At night, after passing Cauda after the third day out. Why? In order to assure him they would all survive the storm. God wanted Paul to preach in Rome.

11. “…this is for your preservation….” v. 34. Who? Paul, to the rest of the men on the ship, as they drifted across the Adriatic Sea. Why? To urge them to eat.

Acts 28

12. "Undoubtedly this man is a murderer. ... " v. 4. Who? The natives of Malta, after a viper attached itself to Paul’s hand. Why? He must have been deserving of death, and since the sea hadn’t punished him, the viper would.

13. “Let the fever pass from him….” v. 8. Who might have said it? Paul, about the father of Publius, while he stayed with Publius in Malta. He was sick with dysentery, and God could heal him.

14. “Stay with us for a week.” v. 14. Who? Believers in Puteoli (chief port of Rome), to Paul, when the ship docked there.

15. "...nor have any of the brethren come here and reported or spoken anything bad about you.” v. 21. Who? The Jewish leaders in Rome, to Paul. When? Three days after arriving in Rome, assembled at Paul’s request. Why? Because Paul had told his story, the reason for his chains.

16. “We do not believe these things.” v. 24. Who? Some of the Jews in Rome, to Paul, after he had taught them the gospel. “They refused to believe.”

17. "You will keep on hearing, but will not understand; and you will keep on seeing, but will not perceive." v. 26. Who? Paul, to the unbelieving Jews in Rome. He is quoting what Jesus quoted, from Isaiah 6:9-10.  (Matthew 13:14-15)

18. “This salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles; they will also listen.” v. 28 Who? Paul, to the Jews, as they left him in prison. Why? Maybe to shame them? Maybe they wouldn’t listen, but the Gentiles would.