Connect:
- Open in prayer.
- Share about a time when you have been lost. What did you to do? How were you found?
Discuss:
- Read Galatians 5:1-12. What does spiritual freedom mean to you personally? Are there specific aspects of “freedom to” that you are challenged to embrace, such as patience, joy, or self-sacrifice?
- Think about the voices that draw you away from Christ. What voices in your life—whether internal or external—tempt you to easily surrender your freedoms?
- Paul encourages us to “stand firm” in the freedom we have in Christ. What helps you to stay grounded in the freedom Jesus has purchased for you, and what practices could help you stand firm against spiritual pressures?
- Legalism can subtly take our focus off God’s grace by allowing something that is valuable to become the ultimate thing. Are there areas in your life where you’ve added extra rules for yourself or others to feel accepted by God? What could you do to replace those with grace instead?
- Paul speaks strongly about rejecting false doctrines. How do you discern teachings or ideas that are inconsistent with the gospel? What resources or practices strengthen your understanding of true gospel freedom?
- Paul says, “The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love” (Galatians 5:6). How does faith working through love distinguish the Christian faith from other faiths based on following rules? What are some practical ways you can let your faith in Jesus flow into acts of love this week?
Pray:
- Spend time thanking Jesus for the freedom He has purchased for us.
- Ask God to help you stand firm in the freedom found in Christ, avoiding the temptation to add rules, rituals, or worldly standards to the gospel.
