Biblical Stewardship - Through A Citizens Lens

Matthew 6:19-24; Philippians 3:20, Matthew 22:21
Mike Maglish

Part of Earthly Treasures

January 4, 2026

14 Now after John was arrested, Jesus came into Galilee, proclaiming the gospel of God, 15 and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.” —Mark 1:14–15 

20 But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself. —Philippians 3:20–21 

“If you read history you will find that the Christians who did most for the present world were precisely those who thought most of the next.” - CS Lewis 

CITIZENSHIP shapes STEWARDSHIP 

1. The Pharisees 
• Religious conservatives 
• Strongly opposed Roman rule 
• Popular with the Jewish people 
• If Jesus endorsed the tax, He’d lose public favor

2.The Herodians 
• Political loyalists to Herod Antipas and, by extension, Rome 
• Supported Roman taxation 
• If Jesus rejected the tax, they could accuse Him of treason 

15 Then the Pharisees went and plotted how to entangle him in his words. 16 And they sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians, saying, “Teacher, we know that you are true and teach the way of God truthfully, and you do not care about anyone’s opinion, for you are not swayed by appearances. 17 Tell us, then, what you think. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?” 18 But Jesus, aware of their malice, said, “Why put me to the test, you hypocrites? 19 Show me the coin for the tax.” And they brought him a denarius. 20 And Jesus said to them, “Whose likeness and inscription is this?” 21 They said, “Caesar’s.” Then he said to them, “Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” 22 When they heard it, they marveled. And they left him and went away. —Matthew 22:15–22 

THE RESPONSE…

1. Affirms Civil Responsibility 
   • Taxes, governance, civic order have a legitimate place 
   • Jesus is not an anarchist or political revolutionary
2. Limits the State’s Authority 
   • Caesar gets what belongs to Caesar—but not everything 
   • The state does not get worship, conscience, or ultimate allegiance
3. Claims Everything for God 
   • Coins bear Caesar’s image → belong to Caesar 
   • People bear God’s image (Genesis 1:26–27) → belong to God

This reframes the question from taxes to ultimate ownership. 

STEWARDSHIP is a HEART issue 

19 “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. —Matthew 6:19–21 

13 So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love. —1 Corinthians 13:13 

Kingdom of God investment looks like… 
-Spending what you can’t keep on what you can’t lose. 
-Trading temporary comfort for eternal impact 
-Using earthly currency to build heavenly capital 
-Planting seeds you may never see grow 
-Living today with tomorrow’s glory in mind 

Eternal INHERITANCE is the REWARD 

Takeaway: What you invest NOW echoes into ETERNITY 

“I commit to being a good steward of the KINGDOM in 2026” 

Change that Sticks in 2026

2 Kings 5:1-18
Tim Nay

December 28, 2025

“It is no good choosing a change you’d like to see in someone else. You can’t choose ‘well-behaved children’ or ‘more attentive friends.’ You must choose something about you—such as ‘not shouting at my children’ or ‘getting less irritated by my housemates.’” (Chester, You Can Change, p. 19) 

“Naaman, commander of the army of the king of Syria, was a great man with his master and in high favor, because by him the Lord had given victory to Syria. He was a mighty man of valor, but he was a leper.” —2 Kings 5:1 

1. Humility is necessary for change. 

 —2 Kings 5:2-6 

2. Listening to other thoughts and ideas is essential. 

9 “So Naaman came with his horses and chariots and stood at the door of Elisha’s house. 10 And Elisha sent a messenger to him, saying, “Go and wash in the Jordan seven times, and your flesh shall be restored, and you shall be clean.” 11 But Naaman was angry and went away, saying, “Behold, I thought that he would surely come out to me and stand and call upon the name of the Lord his God, and wave his hand over the place and cure the leper. 12 Are not Abana[c] and Pharpar, the rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? Could I not wash in them and be clean?” So he turned and went away in a rage. 13 But his servants came near and said to him, “My father, it is a great word the prophet has spoken to you; will you not do it? Has he actually said to you, ‘Wash, and be clean’?” 14 So he went down and dipped himself seven times in the Jordan, according to the word of the man of God, and his flesh was restored like the flesh of a little child, and he was clean.” —2 Kings 5:9-14 

3. Obedience before understanding is often necessary. 

—2 Kings 5:17-18 

I ASKED GOD… 

I asked for strength 
and God gave me difficulties to make me strong.

I asked for wisdom 
and God gave me problems to learn to solve.

I asked for prosperity 
and God gave me a brain and brawn to work.

I asked for courage 
and God gave me dangers to overcome.

I asked for love 
and God gave me people to help.

I asked for favors 
and God gave me opportunities.

I received nothing I wanted. 
I received everything I needed.

—AUTHOR UNKNOWN (tribute to a civil war soldier) 

4. Real, lasting transformation begins in the heart. 

18 “Hear then the parable of the sower: 19 When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart. This is what was sown along the path. 20 As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy, 21 yet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while, and when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately he falls away. 22 As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. 23 As for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it. He indeed bears fruit and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty, and in another thirty.” —Matthew 13:18-23 

TYPES of HEARTS affecting Change:

Hard Heart - lacks understanding and does not act before it’s snatched away. 
Rocky Heart - receives but runs into tough times and abandons. 
Thorny Heart - receives but cares of the world and deceitfulness of riches chokes it out. 
Good Heart - understands and acts immediately and continues. 

TAKEAWAY: Real change comes from a heart surrendered to God. 

Share the Light

Luke 2:15-20
Tim Nay

Part of The Light Has Come

December 18, 2025

“When the angels went away from them into heaven..” —Luke 2:15a 

God will use anything to get our attention. 

What is God using to get your attention? 

24 “The God who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in temples made by man, 25 nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all mankind life and breath and everything. 26 And he made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined allotted periods and the boundaries of their dwelling place, 27 that they should seek God, and perhaps feel their way toward him and find him. Yet he is actually not far from each one of us.” —Acts 17:24-27 

“When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger.” —Luke 2:15-16 

Investigate to try and discern what God is saying. 

How to Investigate:

• Find a list of Scriptures dealing with whatever the topic is.
• Read and pray through the Scriptures.
• Seek wisdom from spiritually mature people.
• Read and listen to books and messages to give you a different perspective.
• Respond to what God is asking of you.

17 “And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. 18 And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. 20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.” —Luke 2:17-20 

Be willing and ready to share how God is transforming you. 

“Preach the gospel at all times, if necessary, use words.” St. Francis of Assisi 

Ways to Share the Good News of Jesus:

• Bumper sticker 
• Act of kindness/love 
• Personal invite to Christmas Eve Service 
• Share your faith story 
• Share what God is currently doing in you 
• Share the saving message of Jesus. 

16 “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. 17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, “The righteous shall live by faith.” —Romans 1:16-17 

TAKEAWAY: Tell others about how Jesus changed your life and experience joy.

Welcoming God’s Light Brings Peace

Luke 2:8-20
Tim Nay

Part of The Light Has Come

December 14, 2025

“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone.” —Isaiah 9:2 

Christmas can be a ‘Dark Time’:

• Loneliness 
• Financial stress 
• Family conflict 
• Unrealistic expectations 
• Stress/anxiety 
• Grief/loss 
• Addictions increase 
• Unexpected crisis

GOOD NEWS: We do not have to stay in the dark! 

8 “And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. 10 And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” —Luke 2:8-11 

God’s light prevails in the darkest of times. 

1 “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. 4 In him was life, and the life was the light of men. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” —John 1:1-5 

Let God’s light reveal your shadows. 

“All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.” —Isaiah 53:6 

8 “for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light 9 (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), 10 and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. 11 Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. 12 For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. 13 But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible.” —Ephesians 5:8-13 

12 “And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” —Luke 2:12-14 

Peace comes to only those who welcome the Light. 

8 “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 9 What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” —Philippians 4:8-9 

“Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” —John 8:12 

TAKEAWAY: To shine Jesus’ light, we must soak in His presence. 

4 “Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. 5 But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed. 6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. 7 He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so he opened not his mouth.” —Isaiah 53:4-7

The Light of Prophecy

Isaiah 9:2-7, 60:1-13, Micah 5:2-5
Mike Maglish

Part of The Light Has Come

December 7, 2025

Darkness is OPPRESSIVE. 

—Isaiah 9:2 

. —Isaiah 9:3-7 

1. Wonderful Counselor: God’s wisdom guides perfectly. Imagine a king who never makes mistakes, always leading with insight and righteousness. 
2. Mighty God (El Gibbor): God’s strength is unmatched. He is unstoppable against any enemy. 
3. Everlasting Father: God cares for His people tenderly and eternally. Unlike earthly fathers who fail or die, His care is unending. 
4. Prince of Peace: Shalom is more than absence of conflict. It is wholeness, restoration, and completeness in every area of life—justice, mercy, and security.

The Light Is JESUS 

 —Daniel 2:44 

—Matthew 4:16-17 

Jesus FULFILLS the PROMISE 


 —Isaiah 60:1-3 

• Global Scope: The prophecy points beyond Israel. Nations will be drawn to this Light. Darkness will be overcome. 
• Jesus’ Ministry: People from all walks of life—Jew and Gentile—were drawn to Him. He healed, taught, overturned oppressive systems, and drew the nations to Himself. 
• Revelation 21 Connection: In the New Jerusalem, “the Lamb is its lamp, illuminating everything forever.”2 “But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, 
who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, 
from you shall come forth for me 
one who is to be ruler in Israel, 
whose coming forth is from of old, 
from ancient days. 
3 Therefore he shall give them up until the time 
when she who is in labor has given birth; 
then the rest of his brothers shall return 
to the people of Israel. 
4 And he shall stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the Lord, 
in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. 
And they shall dwell secure, for now he shall be great 
to the ends of the earth.” 
5 And he shall be their peace. —Micah 5:2-5 

—Daniel 7:9 

13 “I saw in the night visions, 
and behold, with the clouds of heaven 
there came one like a son of man, 
and he came to the Ancient of Days 
and was presented before him.” —Daniel 7:13 

22 until the Ancient of Days came, and judgment was given for the saints of the Most High, and the time came when the saints possessed the kingdom. —Daniel 7:22 

The Lamb and the Shepherd 
• The Lamb: Vulnerable, sacrificial, aligning with God’s redemptive plan. 
• The Shepherd: Tender, guiding, protective, caring for His flock.

The Messiah is both LAMB and SHEPHERD 

…and He shall be our PEACE 

THE THREAD OF PROPHECY - ONE LIGHT MANY CENTURIES 

• Isaiah 9: Light shines, a King is promised. 
• Isaiah 60: Light draws nations. 
• Micah 5: King born in Bethlehem, eternal yet newborn, Lamb and Shepherd, He is our Peace. 
• Daniel 2: God’s kingdom as the unstoppable stone, cutting through oppressive empires. 
• Matthew 4: Jesus fulfills prophecy. 
• Revelation 21: Light shines forever in the New Jerusalem.

THE HEART OF GOD IN PROPHECY 

1. God intentionally enters darkness. Nothing intimidates Him—your fears, grief, sin, hopelessness.
2. God speaks His promises as if already done. The prophetic perfect shows His Word is alive and unstoppable.
3. Jesus is not just a light — He is YOUR light. Eternal, personal, restoring, guiding, protecting.
4. Prophecy shows God’s heart. He wants you to trust, to follow, to step into the Light.

The Light Of Prophecy Is HOPE and CERTAINTY 

Our Identity is in the Cross

Galatians 6:11-18
Tim Nay

Part of Galatians

November 30, 2025

14 “But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.” —Galatians 6:14 14 “But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.” —Galatians 6:14 

14 “set free from the stifling atmosphere of pleasing others and fitting into the little patterns that they dictate.” —Galatians 6:14 (The Message) 

12 “It is those who want to make a good showing in the flesh who would force you to be circumcised, and only in order that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ.” —Galatians 6:12 

We no longer live to impress others. 

13 “For even those who are circumcised do not themselves keep the law, but they desire to have you circumcised that they may boast in your flesh.” —Galatians 6:13 

We no longer exaggerate our abilities. 

15 “For neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation.” —Galatians 6:15 

We emphasize being a new creation. 

16 “And as for all who walk by this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God. 17 From now on let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus. 18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers. Amen.” —Galatians 6:16-18 

TAKEAWAY: Peace and mercy come from boasting only in the cross. 

The Satisfying Work of Mutual Support

Galatians 6:1-10
Tim Nay

Part of Galatians

November 23, 2025

1 “Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” —Galatians 6:1-2 

19 “Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.” —Galatians 5:19-21 

CONDEMNATION: 
Often an emotional, impulsive reaction stemming from anger, self-righteousness, or a need for self-protection. It can provide a temporary feeling of superiority or a boost in self-worth by pointing out others’ flaws.

RESTORATION: 
Requires vulnerability, empathy, and the humble acknowledgment of one’s own weaknesses and brokenness.

We emphasize RESTORATION, not ACCUSATION. 

The GOAL of CONDEMNATION is often punishment or shaming, leading to despair and a downward spiral. 

The GOAL of RESTORATION is reconciliation, growth, and freedom, which involves a multi-step process of learning, molding, and getting back on the right path.

3 “For if anyone thinks he is something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself. 4 But let each one test his own work, and then his reason to boast will be in himself alone and not in his neighbor. 5 For each will have to bear his own load.” —Galatians 6:3-5 

11 “The Pharisee, standing by himself, prayed thus: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector.” —Luke 18:11 

Our approach is from a humble and gentle spirit. 

“Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” —Proverbs 16:12 

3 “For if anyone thinks he is something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself. 4 But let each one test his own work, and then his reason to boast will be in himself alone and not in his neighbor. 5 For each will have to bear his own load.” —Galatians 6:3-5 

Burden = baros = “heaviness (of life)” 

Burden = baros = “heaviness (of life)”

Load = phortion = “lading of a ship”

We bear the burden, but do not assume responsibility for the load. 

6 “Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches. 7 Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. 8 For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. —Galatians 6:6-8 

9 “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. 10 So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.” —Galatians 6:9-10 

We encourage steadfast sowing for eventual blessings.

TAKEAWAY: Who can you mutually support in their desire to live by the Spirit? 

Woman Caught in Adultery 
(John 8:1-11)

TAKEAWAY: Who can you mutually support in their desire to live by the Spirit?

Feed What You Want

Galatians 5:13-16
Mike Maglish

Part of Galatians

November 16, 2025

Galatians 5:13-18 

Paul pits the SPIRIT against the FLESH. He frames it as a conflict, a battle, a choice. 

Flesh - σάρξ (sarx) - “Body” or “Human nature apart from God”

Spirit - πνεῦμα (pneuma) - “God’s living presence within us. Shapes us more like Jesus.” 

Flesh (σάρξ / sarx) 
• Romans 7:18: “I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh.” 
• Galatians 5:17: “The flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit.” 
The “flesh” is not your skin — it’s your old self, your default setting of self-centeredness.

Spirit (πνεῦμα / pneuma) 
• Romans 8:9: “You are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you.” 
• Galatians 4:6: “God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts.” 

The FLESH leads to DESTRUCTION 

Galatians 5:19–21 

“And that’s not an exhaustive list … there are many more, many more that could be added to the list.” 
— John MacArthur, The Fruit of the Spirit, Part 1 

Other Examples Of Flesh In Scripture 
• Greed and Covetousness – Colossians 3:5 
• Pride and Arrogance – Proverbs 16:18; James 4:6 
• Neglect of the Poor or Injustice – Amos 5:11–12; Luke 16:19–31 
• Unforgiveness and Bitterness – Ephesians 4:31–32 
• Deception and Hypocrisy – Acts 5:1–11 
• Abuse of Power or Control – 3 John 9–10 
• Fear and Distrust of God – Romans 14:23 
• Slander and Gossip – 2 Corinthians 12:20

FROM SERMON CLUB 
gossip, church splits, ego before others, cliques, division between young and old, philosophical disagreements, majoring in non-gospel doctrine

21 “I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.” —Galatians 5:21 
πράσσοντες (prassontes), implies a habitual lifestyle. This isn’t about one-time failure; it’s a life consistently ruled by the Flesh. 

The SPIRIT produces LIFE 

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control.” —Galatians 5:22-23 

Other Examples Of Fruit In Scripture 
• Generosity – 2 Corinthians 9:8 
• Humility – James 3:13–18 
• Mercy – James 3:17 
• Purity – James 3:17 
• Righteousness – Romans 14:17 
• Wisdom – James 3:1723 “against such things there is no law.” —Galatians 5:23 

“Neither God nor man has ever made a law against these things; the more there is of them, the better will it be for everybody.” - Charles Spurgeon 

We must CRUCIFY the FLESH daily 

24 “And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” —Galatians 5:24 

23 “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” —Luke 9:23 

25 “If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit.” —Galatians 5:25 

στοιχῶμεν (stoichōmen) literally means to walk in line, like soldiers or a marching band following the cadence of the leader. 

Practical Ways To Keep In Step With The Spirit 
• Stay close to Jesus daily — prayer, Scripture, worship. 
• Walk with others — accountability and community matters. 
• Crucify the Flesh daily — refuse gossip, envy, anger, etc.. 
• Respond to the Spirit’s nudges — small acts of kindness, patience, love. 

Galatians 5:13-14 

Takeaway: Live In SPIRIT-LED freedom 

Sinner, Lay Your Burdens Down

Galatians 5:1-12
Mike Maglish

Part of Galatians

November 9, 2025

“For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” —Galatians 5:1 

2 “Look: I, Paul, say to you that if you accept circumcision, Christ will be of no advantage to you.” —Galatians 5:2 

GRACE brings FREEDOM 

21 “that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God.” —Romans 8:21 

When you live under law, you live under burden. 
When you live under grace, you live under blessing. 
The law says “do more.” 
Grace says “it’s done.” “Take my yoke upon you… for my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” —Matthew 11:29–30 

LEGALISM leads to BURDEN 

4 “You are severed from Christ, you who would be justified by the law; you have fallen away from grace.” —Galatians 5:4 

“You’re so focused on cutting the flesh… that you’ve cut yourself off from Christ.” 

• Spiritually: You’re disconnecting from grace by relying on law. 
• Symbolically: You’re obsessed with physical cutting (circumcision), and as a result, you’ve spiritually “cut” yourself away from the true source of righteousness — Christ.

“The grace of God is infinite and eternal. As it had no beginning, so it can have no end.” - A.W. Tozer 

5 “For through the Spirit, by faith, we ourselves eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness. 6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love.” —Galatians 5:5-6 

STAND in FREEDOM 

7 “You were running well. Who hindered you from obeying the truth? 8 This persuasion is not from him who calls you. 9 A little leaven leavens the whole lump.” —Galatians 5:7-9 

The Greek for “hindered” is ἐνέκοψεν (enekopsen), from the verb enkoptō — which literally means “to cut in on,” “to hinder by breaking up a road,” or “to impede by cutting off.”

It was often used in athletic or military contexts: 
• In a race, it described someone who cut into your lane and blocked your progress. 
• In warfare, it could mean cutting a trench or obstacle in a road to slow the enemy down. 

“These Judaizers are obsessed with physical cutting (circumcision), but they’re the ones doing the REAL damage — cutting you off from grace, cutting into your progress, cutting away your freedom in Christ.” 

12 “having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead. 13 And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, 14 by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. 15 He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him.” —Colossians 2:12-15 

12 “I wish those who unsettle you would emasculate themselves!” —Galatians 5:12 

Takeaway: When you live under GRACE, you live in FREEDOM 

“Grace is not opposed to effort; it’s opposed to earning.” — Dallas Willard

Harassment vs. Freedom

Galatians 4:21-31
Tim Nay

Part of Galatians

November 2, 2025

21 “Tell me, you who desire to be under the law, do you not listen to the law? 22 For it is written that Abraham had two sons, one by a slave woman and one by a free woman. 23 But the son of the slave was born according to the flesh, while the son of the free woman was born through promise.” —Galatians 4:21-23 

The Law vs. Promise 

1 “Now Sarai, Abram’s wife, had borne him no children. She had a female Egyptian servant whose name was Hagar. 2 And Sarai said to Abram, “Behold now, the Lord has prevented me from bearing children. Go in to my servant; it may be that I shall obtain children by her.” And Abram listened to the voice of Sarai. 3 So, after Abram had lived ten years in the land of Canaan, Sarai, Abram’s wife, took Hagar the Egyptian, her servant, and gave her to Abram her husband as a wife. 4 And he went in to Hagar, and she conceived. And when she saw that she had conceived, she looked with contempt on her mistress. 5 And Sarai said to Abram, “May the wrong done to me be on you! I gave my servant to your embrace, and when she saw that she had conceived, she looked on me with contempt. May the Lord judge between you and me!” 6 But Abram said to Sarai, “Behold, your servant is in your power; do to her as you please.” Then Sarai dealt harshly with her, and she fled from her.” —Genesis 16:1-6 

The Law vs. Promise

• The Law represents human effort. 

1 “The Lord visited Sarah as he had said, and the Lord did to Sarah as he had promised. 2 And Sarah conceived and bore Abraham a son in his old age at the time of which God had spoken to him. 3 Abraham called the name of his son who was born to him, whom Sarah bore him, Isaac.” —Genesis 21:1-3 

The Law vs. Promise

• The Law represents human effort.

• The Promise represents God’s effort. 

24 “Now this may be interpreted allegorically: these women are two covenants. One is from Mount Sinai, bearing children for slavery; she is Hagar. 25 Now Hagar is Mount Sinai in Arabia; she corresponds to the present Jerusalem, for she is in slavery with her children. 26 But the Jerusalem above is free, and she is our mother. 27 For it is written, “Rejoice, O barren one who does not bear; break forth and cry aloud, you who are not in labor! For the children of the desolate one will be more than those of the one who has a husband.” —Galatians 4:24-27 

Hagar vs. Sarai

• Hagar represents the Law which brings slavery and bondage.

• Sarai represents the Promise which brings freedom and spiritual rebirth. 

28 “Now you, brothers, like Isaac, are children of promise. 29 But just as at that time he who was born according to the flesh persecuted him who was born according to the Spirit, so also it is now. 30 But what does the Scripture say? “Cast out the slave woman and her son, for the son of the slave woman shall not inherit with the son of the free woman.” 31 So, brothers, we are not children of the slave but of the free woman.” —Galatians 4:28-31 

Genesis 21:8-21 

Ishmael vs. Isaac 

• Ishmael represents the Law which harasses us for not being spiritually mature. 
• Isaac represents our freedom in Christ to continue to grow toward spiritual maturity. 

TAKEAWAY: Live out Christian freedom and avoid toxic religious environments.

A Spiritual Parent’s Emotional Appeal

Galatians 4:8-20
Tim Nay

Part of Galatians

October 26, 2025

8 “Formerly, when you did not know God, you were enslaved to those that by nature are not gods. 9 But now that you have come to know God, or rather to be known by God, how can you turn back again to the weak and worthless elementary principles of the world, whose slaves you want to be once more? 10 You observe days and months and seasons and years! 11 I am afraid I may have labored over you in vain.” —Galatians 4:8-11 

5 “When an attempt was made by both Gentiles and Jews, with their rulers, to mistreat them and to stone them, 6 they learned of it and fled to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and to the surrounding country, 7 and there they continued to preach the gospel.” —Acts 14:5-7 

Do not turn back to a list of religious rituals. 

“The pharisaical goal is to make the commands of righteousness just easy enough for me to follow, but too difficult for almost everyone else. That will allow me to look pretty good while leaving me plenty of people to judge.” —p. 20, 12 Steps for the Recovering Pharisee, by John Fischer 

20 “If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world, why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations— 21 “Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch” 22 (referring to things that all perish as they are used)—according to human precepts and teachings? 23 These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh.” —Colossians 2:20-23 

FAITH VS. PERFECTION

FAITHFULNESS means being authentic, devoted, consistent, and loyal.

PERFECTION means there is not any room for error. 

“When God calls for perfection, it is assumed that we cannot perform it. It’s the demand for perfection that keeps me relying on God’s mercy and grace.. But the call to faithfulness is a call I can answer. Faithful to follow, faithful to confess, faithful to obey, faithful to repent, faithful to believe, faithful to pray and seek God—all these are the requirements of faithfulness.” 
— p. 21, 12 Steps for the Recovering Pharisee, by John Fischer

12 “Brothers, I entreat you, become as I am, for I also have become as you are. You did me no wrong. 13 You know it was because of a bodily ailment that I preached the gospel to you at first, 14 and though my condition was a trial to you, you did not scorn or despise me, but received me as an angel of God, as Christ Jesus. 15 What then has become of your blessedness? For I testify to you that, if possible, you would have gouged out your eyes and given them to me. 16 Have I then become your enemy by telling you the truth?” —Galatians 4:12-16 

Allow others to be honest and truthful with you. 

8 “Do not rebuke mockers or they will hate you; rebuke the wise and they will love you. 9 Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning.” —Proverbs 9:8-9 

17 “They make much of you, but for no good purpose. They want to shut you out, that you may make much of them. 18 It is always good to be made much of for a good purpose, and not only when I am present with you.” —Galatians 4:17-18 

Be aware some people have ulterior motives. 

19 “My little children, for whom I am again in the anguish of childbirth until Christ is formed in you! 20 I wish I could be present with you now and change my tone, for I am perplexed about you.” —Galatians 4:19-20 

Emotion is a part of Christ being formed in us. 

TAKEAWAY: Who’s your heart burdened for to become like Christ?

No Nanny Needed

Galatians 3:23-4:7

Tim Nay

Part of Galatians

October 19, 2025

23 “Now before faith came, we were held captive under the law, imprisoned until the coming faith would be revealed.” —Galatians 3:23 16 “You shall not go around as a slanderer among your people, and you shall not stand up against the life of your neighbor: I am the Lord.” —Leviticus 19:16 

17 “You shall not hate your brother in your heart, but you shall reason frankly with your neighbor, lest you incur sin because of him.” —Leviticus 19:17 

The Law imprisons us because we stand condemned. 

24 “So the law was our guardian until Christ came that we might be justified by faith. 25 Now that this faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian.” —Galatians 3:24-25 

GUARDIAN (Pedagogue) 
• Responsible for training up a child morally & socially 
• Responsible for protecting the child. 
• Was to be obeyed 
• Treated the child more like a slave than someone free 
• Responsible for a determined time

LAW OF MOSES 
• Trained observers morally and socially 
• Protected the observer 
• Was to be obeyed 
• Observers were enslaved to it 
• Responsible for a determined amount of time

1 “I mean that the heir, as long as he is a child, is no different from a slave, though he is the owner of everything, 2 but he is under guardians and managers until the date set by his father. 3 In the same way we also, when we were children, were enslaved to the elementary principles of the world. 4 But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, 5 to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.” —Galatians 4:1-5 

The Law is no longer a guardian between us and our Abba Father! 

6 “And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father!” 7 So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God.” —Galatians 4:6-7 

TAKEAWAY: Our energy is for loving God, not for keeping rules.

Standing in the Courtroom of Heaven

Galatians 3:15-22
Mike Maglish

Part of Galatians

October 12, 2025

STANDING IN THE COURTROOM OF HEAVEN 
(Not Guilty By Abraham Solomon) 

 —Romans 3:19–20 

The Law SHOWS our GUILT 
19 “Why then the law? It was added because of transgressions, until the offspring should come to whom the promise had been made, and it was put in place through angels by an intermediary. 20 Now an intermediary implies more than one, but God is one. 
21 Is the law then contrary to the promises of God? Certainly not! For if a law had been given that could give life, then righteousness would indeed be by the law. 22 But the Scripture imprisoned everything under sin, so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe.” —Galatians 3:19–22 

THE SCOPE OF THE LAW 
The Law wasn’t a mistake, it was a mirror. 
The Law reveals sin, it doesn’t remove it. 
The Law defines righteousness, but can’t deliver it. 
The Law can’t heal, but it shows what’s broken. 

“You don’t blame the thermometer for the fever. The thermometer only shows you what’s wrong. The Law does the same — it shows us how far we’ve fallen short.” 

“The Law shows us our sin, but it can’t save us from it. It’s a diagnostic, not a cure.” - Tim Keller 

WHAT WE LEARN 
• Until we admit our guilt, we’ll never reach for grace. 
• The Law strips away pride and self-justification. 
• It says to every human heart, “You don’t measure up — but Someone does.”

The PROMISE shows God’s PLAN 

15 “To give a human example, brothers: even with a man-made covenant, no one annuls it or adds to it once it has been ratified. 16 Now the promises were made to Abraham and to his offspring. It does not say, “And to offsprings,” referring to many, but referring to one, “And to your offspring,” who is Christ. 17 This is what I mean: the law, which came 430 years afterward, does not annul a covenant previously ratified by God, so as to make the promise void. 18 For if the inheritance comes by the law, it no longer comes by promise; but God gave it to Abraham by a promise.” —Galatians 3:15-18 

Explanation 
Paul points back 430 years before the Law - To Abram (Septuagint Math) 

Explanation 
Paul points back 430 years before the Law - To Abram (Septuagint Math) 
God made a covenant that salvation would come through faith 
The Law didn’t cancel that; it simply came alongside it for a long time 
The Promise shows us that GRACE was God’s plan all along

“If God’s promise to Abraham was a signed contract, the Law was just a temporary regulation. It couldn’t alter the terms. The covenant still stands.” (Both and Jewish Contract Law) 

APPLICATION 
Our salvation doesn’t depend on our performance - It depends on God’s Promise. 
The Promise shows that God always intended to bless the world through one Offspring - Christ. 
Your standing before God rests on HIS faithfulness, not yours. 

Christ GIVES us STANDING 

16 Now the promises were made to Abraham and to his offspring. It does not say, “And to offsprings,” referring to many, but referring to one, “And to your offspring,” who is Christ —Galatians 3:16 

22 But the Scripture imprisoned everything under sin, so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe —Galatians 3:22 

Jesus is the true heir of the covenant (STANDING) 
Through faith, we are united with Him 
His standing becomes ours 
We’re not just forgiven; we’re declared righteous (FULL LEGAL STATUS) 

Takeaway: The Law Reveals GUILT, but Christ gives STANDING. 

Foolish, Bewitched and Cursed - Without the Cross

Galatians 3:1-14
Mike Maglish

Part of Galatians

October 5, 2025

“O foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you? It was before your eyes that Jesus Christ was publicly portrayed as crucified.” —Galatians 3:1 

τίς ὑμᾶς ἐβάσκανεν 
tis hymas ebaskanen 
→ “Who has bewitched you?” 
• ἐβάσκανεν = “to cast an evil eye on, cast a spell, bewitch, deceive.” Paul uses a strong word implying spiritual deception or enchantment. 

“O foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you? It was before your eyes that Jesus Christ was publicly portrayed as crucified.” —Galatians 3:1 

ἐσταυρωμένος = perfect passive participle of σταυρόω (stauroō) → “to crucify.” 
• Perfect tense = past action, present results. (Christ was crucified and remains so) 
• Passive voice = done to the subject (Jesus was crucified by others). 
• Participle = a verbal adjective, functioning almost like a title (“the Crucified One”).

We are BEWITCHED when we take our EYES off the CROSS 

2 “Let me ask you only this: Did you receive the Spirit by works of the law or by hearing with faith? 3 Are you so foolish? Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh?” —Galatians 3:2-3 

Two big words 
SPIRIT - Holy Spirit 
BEING PERFECTED - brought to completion 

 —2 Corinthians 3:5-6 

13 “In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit.” —Ephesians 1:13 

FAITH in CHRIST brings COMPLETION 

4 “Did you suffer so many things in vain—if indeed it was in vain? 5 Does he who supplies the Spirit to you and works miracles among you do so by works of the law, or by hearing with faith— 6 just as Abraham “believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”? 
7 Know then that it is those of faith who are the sons of Abraham. 8 And the Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel beforehand to Abraham, saying, “In you shall all the nations be blessed.” 9 So then, those who are of faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith.” —Galatians 3:4-9 

“Abraham hoped against hope, resting on the truth of God alone. His faith was imputed for righteousness; not because it merited righteousness, but because by believing, he confessed himself destitute of all righteousness, and sought it from God.” - John Calvin 

10 “For all who rely on works of the law are under a curse; for it is written, “Cursed be everyone who does not abide by all things written in the Book of the Law, and do them.” 11 Now it is evident that no one is justified before God by the law, for “The righteous shall live by faith.” 12 But the law is not of faith, rather “The one who does them shall live by them.” —Galatians 3:10-12 

—Deuteronomy 27:26 

We are CURSED under the LAW 

13 “Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree”— 14 so that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised Spirit through faith.” —Galatians 3:13-14 

 —Deuteronomy 21:22-23 

Jesus became a CURSE for US 

—Romans 8:3-4 

“He took the curse, and left the blessing. He drank the wormwood and left the honey. He was spit upon and we are kissed. He was mocked and we are applauded. He was robed in shame and we are robed in glory. He was condemned and we are justified.” - Charles Spurgeon 

Takeaway: Put your FAITH in the ONE who became CURSED so you may be BLESSED 

Justification by Law or Christ?

Galatians 2:15-21
Tim Nay

Part of Galatians

September 28, 2025

11 “But when Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned. 12 For before certain men came from James, he was eating with the Gentiles; but when they came he drew back and separated himself, fearing the circumcision party.” —Galatians 2:11-12 

14 But when I saw that their conduct was not in step with the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas before them all, “If you, though a Jew, live like a Gentile and not like a Jew, how can you force the Gentiles to live like Jews?” —Galatians 2:14 

JUSTIFICATION = to declare righteous 

JUST - [as] - IF - I’D - [never sinned] 

15 “We ourselves are Jews by birth and not Gentile sinners; 16 yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified.” —Galatians 2:15-16 

It is IMPOSSIBLE to be JUSTIFIED by the Law. 

19 “Now we know that whatever the law says it speaks to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be stopped, and the whole world may be held accountable to God. 20 For by works of the law no human being will be justified in his sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin.” —Romans 3:19-20 

The Law condemns both Jews and Gentiles. 

 —Romans 3:21-24 

A person believing they are saved by works…

• Cannot rest 
• Needs others approval and validation 
• Wonders if they have done enough 
• Wonders if they are enough 
• Never sure of their salvation 
• Has fear of others 
• Fears their faults will be found out 
• Judges others by outward appearance 
• Continually carries guilt and shame 
• Lacks fellowship with other people 
• Disputes and divides over non-essentials

17 “But if, in our endeavor to be justified in Christ, we too were found to be sinners, is Christ then a servant of sin? Certainly not! 18 For if I rebuild what I tore down, I prove myself to be a transgressor. 19 For through the law I died to the law, so that I might live to God.” —Galatians 2:17-19 

We were not justified by Christ to return to justification by works. 

6 “But if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace.” —Romans 11:6 

G - God’s 
R - Riches 
A - At 
C - Christ’s 
E - Expense 

8 “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast. 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” —Ephesians 2:8-10 

TAKEAWAY: 
I no longer live, but Christ in me. 

Exposing a Hypocritical Gospel

Galatians 2:1-14
Tim Nay

Part of Galatians

September 21, 2025

1 “Then after fourteen years I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, taking Titus along with me. 2 I went up because of a revelation and set before them (though privately before those who seemed influential) the gospel that I proclaim among the Gentiles, in order to make sure I was not running or had not run in vain. 3 But even Titus, who was with me, was not forced to be circumcised, though he was a Greek. 4 Yet because of false brothers secretly brought in—who slipped in to spy out our freedom that we have in Christ Jesus, so that they might bring us into slavery— 5 to them we did not yield in submission even for a moment, so that the truth of the gospel might be preserved for you.” —Galatians 2:1-5 

By being aware of THREATS to the Gospel. 

4 “Yet because of false brothers secretly brought in—who slipped in to spy out our freedom that we have in Christ Jesus, so that they might bring us into slavery” —Galatians 2:4 

1 But some men came down from Judea and were teaching the brothers, “Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.” —Acts 15:1 

By learning to MANAGE conflict well. 

11 “But we believe that we will be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, just as they will.” —Acts 15:11 

 —Acts 15:2-11 

Managing conflict well involves: 
-HONEST face to face dialogue 

Managing conflict well involves: 
- HONEST face to face dialogue 
- Disagreement and DEBATE 
- Managed EMOTIONS 
- RESOLUTION 

19 “Therefore my judgment is that we should not trouble those of the Gentiles who turn to God, 20 but should write to them to abstain from the things polluted by idols, and from sexual immorality, and from what has been strangled, and from blood.” —Acts 15:19-20 

Managing conflict well involves: 
- HONEST face to face dialogue 
- Disagreement and DEBATE 
- Managed EMOTIONS 
- RESOLUTION 
- HUMILITY to move PAST the conflict

By CONFRONTING behaviors not in step with how JESUS would live. 

11 “But when Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned. 12 For before certain men came from James, he was eating with the Gentiles; but when they came he drew back and separated himself, fearing the circumcision party. 13 And the rest of the Jews acted hypocritically along with him, so that even Barnabas was led astray by their hypocrisy. 14 But when I saw that their conduct was not in step with the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas before them all, “If you, though a Jew, live like a Gentile and not like a Jew, how can you force the Gentiles to live like Jews?” —Galatians 2:11-141 “Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples: 2 “The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. 3 So you must be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. —Matthew 23:1-3 

TAKEAWAY: How will I better REPRESENT Jesus this week?

When Man Corrupts Gospel

Galatians 1:11-24
Mike Maglish

Part of Galatians

September 14, 2025

 Galatians 1:11-12 
Acts 9:3–6 

Galatians 1:11–12 

Received (παρέλαβον, parelabon) — v. 12 
• A rabbinic word for receiving tradition from a teacher. 
• Paul says, “I didn’t receive the gospel like a tradition handed down.” 

The GOSPEL comes directly from JESUS

What is Man’s Gospel? 
1) Not divine, but man-made 
2) Based on works, not grace 
3) Coordinated with others 
4) Different than the Gospel of Jesus

“If the message of the cross is from man, it is just one more religion; if it is from God, it is the only way of salvation.” - John Stott, The Message of Galatians: Only One Way 

“The greatest enemy to the gospel is not persecution from without but distortion from within.” 
- John MacArthur, The Truth War 
The Gospel is PURE when man preaches WITHOUT personal bias 

OUR GOGGLES = OUR WORLDVIEW 

How may we preserve the Gospel? 
1) Acknowledge our goggles 
2) Take off our goggles as we study God’s Word 
3) Humbly approach the text 
4) Go where our study leads us 
5) Put our goggles back on 
6) Promote what we know to be true 
7) Stand against distortion 

Examples Of Man-Made Gospels Today 

The gospel of Self-Help 
• Message: “God just wants you to be the best version of yourself.” 
• Problem: Reduces Christianity to motivational therapy instead of redemption through Christ. 
 (Galatians 3:13) 

The gospel of Tolerance/Relativism 
• Message: “All paths lead to God; Jesus is just one way among many.” 
• Problem: Denies the exclusivity of Christ and empties the cross of its necessity. 

 (John 14:6)

The gospel of Moralism/Legalism 
• Message: “Be a good person, obey the rules, and God will accept you.” 
• Problem: Assumes salvation is earned by works, not received by grace. 

 (Mark 10:18) 

The gospel of Political Ideology 
• Message: “The kingdom of God comes through your party, your policies, your nation.” 
• Problem: The Kingdom of God comes only through the blood of Jesus. 

(Philippians 3:20) 

The gospel of Outward Image 
• Message: “As long as you look spiritual and keep up appearances, you’re fine.” 
• Problem: Elevates reputation and performance over inward transformation. 

 (Matthew 23:27-28) 

We must WATCH OUT for false Gospel 

 —Galatians 1:13-24 
Timetable (approximate) 
Scholars reconstruct a timeline using Galatians, Acts, and Paul’s letters: 
1. Conversion (c. AD 33–35) – On the Damascus Road (Acts 9:1–9). Paul emphasizes he did not “receive” the gospel from men (v. 12). 
2. Immediate aftermath – Preached briefly in Damascus (Acts 9:19–22). 
3. Arabia (unspecified period, maybe 1–3 years) – Paul says he went away to Arabia (v. 17). Likely a time of solitude, prayer, and revelation, not formal training. 
4. Return to Damascus – Continued ministry until opposition forced him to leave (Acts 9:23–25; 2 Cor. 11:32–33). 
5. First visit to Jerusalem (3 years after conversion) – Met Peter (Cephas) and James (v. 18–19). Stayed only 15 days, not long enough to be “taught” by them. 
6. Departure to Syria and Cilicia (Paul’s home region, including Tarsus) – v. 21. This period may have lasted close to 10 years, until Barnabas brought him to Antioch (Acts 11:25–26). 
7. Recognition by Judean churches – They only knew him by reputation: “He who once persecuted us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy” (v. 23). 
TAKEAWAY: COMMIT to the Gospel of Jesus - GRACE

Jesus Is Enough

Galatians 1:1-10
Mike Maglish

Part of Galatians

September 7, 2025

“The Judaizers’ heresy was not that they denied Christ, but that they insisted that you cannot be saved by Christ alone. You must add your works of the law to His work of the cross.” 
-John Stott (On Galatians) 

“The gospel is not advice to be followed; it is good news to be believed. The Judaizers had turned it back into advice - something we do - rather than something Christ has done.” 
-Tim Keller (Galatians For You) 

1 Paul, an apostle—not from men nor through man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead— 2 and all the brothers who are with me, 
To the churches of Galatia: 
3 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, 4 who gave himself for our sins to deliver us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, 5 to whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen. —Galatians 1:1-5 

Waste NO TIME contending for the GOSPEL 

6 I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel —Galatians 1:6 

“So Quickly” 
-Acts 13-14 - Paul first preached in Galatia 47-48 AD. (Churches planted) 
-The writing of Galatians - Maybe 49 AD (1-2 years of planting those churches) 

 —Galatians 1:6 

Military word: The Greek verb metatithesthe was used for soldiers deserting their post or politicians switching allegiance. It carries the sting of betrayal, treason, or defection. It’s as if Paul is saying “You’re not just adjusting a doctrine. You’re defecting from your Commander.” 

We do not desert an IDEA. We desert the COMMANDER. 

6 I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel —Galatians 1:6 

“Grace means God moving heaven and earth to save sinners who could not lift a finger to save themselves.” 
-J.I. Packer (Knowing God) 

“The gospel is this: We are more sinful and flawed in ourselves than we ever dared believe, yet at the very same time we are more loved and accepted in Jesus Christ than we ever dared hope.” 
-Tim Keller 

7 not that there is another one, but there are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. 8 But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed. 9 As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed. —Galatians 1:7-9 

Greek word behind “accursed” 
• The word is ἀνάθεμα (anathema). 
• Originally it meant something devoted to God (set apart). 
• Over time, it came to mean something devoted to destruction because it was opposed to God. 
Think: in the Old Testament when something was “devoted to destruction” (like Jericho in Joshua 6) — it was under God’s judgment. 

It is DANGEROUS to CHANGE the Gospel of Grace 

Modern Day Parallels to Judaizing 

1) Legalism in the Church (Jesus + Church attendance + personal holiness) 
2) Cultural Christianity (Jesus + my culture + my political view + my worship style) 
3) Spiritual Scorekeeping (I read my Bible more, I homeschool, I give more) 
4) Adding Rules for Belonging (Dress like us, act like us, know our lingo, clean up your life) 
5) The Inner Judaizer (We KNOW the Gospel, but we still feel like we have to EARN it.) 

 —Colossians 2:9-14 

Takeaway 
God’s COVENANT is COMPLETE in CHRIST 

Fruit Comes Where the Spirit Leads

Acts 16:6–10
Derek Murphy

August 31, 2025

“Pardon me, my lord,” Gideon replied, “but if the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us? Where are all his wonders that our ancestors told us about?” —Judges 6:13 NIV“6 Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. 7 When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. 8 So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas. 9 During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” 10 After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.” —Acts 16:6-10 NIV

Key Points from vv 6-10: 

Keep Moving: Paul was on the move, and God leads people in motion.

Wait When Needed: God sometimes blocks our plans—patience is part of obedience.

Release Control: True obedience means surrendering personal agendas.

Be Flexible: God may redirect our steps—be willing to shift your plan.

Step Immediately: When God calls, act without delay: “we got ready at once…”

Big Insight: Obedience doesn’t require a detailed plan, just a clear next step.

3 UNLIKELY CONVERSIONS

a. Lydia – The Seeker (vv. 11–15)

b. Slave Girl – The Oppressed (vv. 16–18)

c. The Jailer – The Skeptic (vv. 25–34)

6 I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. 7 So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. 8 The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor. 9 For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building. —1 Corinthians 3:6-8 NIV“3 I thank my God every time I remember you. 4 In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” —Philippians 1:3–6 NIV

Passing the Baton

Deuteronomy 31; Joshua 1:1-9
Tim Nay

Part of Wanderings & WondersLessons from the Wilderness

August 24, 2025

Deuteronomy 34:7-9 

Four Zones of Passing the Baton:

1. OBSERVATION zone 
   
   Exodus 24:13 
   
   

11 Thus the Lord used to speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend. When Moses turned again into the camp, his assistant Joshua the son of Nun, a young man, would not depart from the tent. —Exodus 33:11

• Observation Zone - Set the EXAMPLE. 
  
  1 “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.” —I Corinthians 11:1 
• ACCELERATION zone 
  
   —Numbers 11:27-30 
• 
  
• Acceleration Zone - Share your LIFE 
  
  8 “So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God BUT ALSO OUR OWN SELVES, because you had become very dear to us.” —1 Thessalonians 2:8 
• HANDOFF zone

18 So the Lord said to Moses, “Take Joshua the son of Nun, a man in whom is the Spirit, and lay your hand on him.” —Numbers 27:18

22 And Moses did as the Lord commanded him. He took Joshua and made him stand before Eleazar the priest and the whole congregation, 23 and he laid his hands on him and commissioned him as the Lord directed through Moses. —Numbers 27:22-23 

 —Deuteronomy 31:2-6 

44 Moses came and recited all the words of this song in the hearing of the people, he and Joshua the son of Nun. —Deuteronomy 32:44 

3. Handoff Zone - Encourage others with OPPORTUNITIES for ministry. 

 —Exodus 17:8-13 

2 Timothy 1:6 “For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands,”

2 Timothy 2:2 ““and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.”

2 Timothy 4:2 “preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.”

4. RUNNING zone 

3 “Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given to you, just as I promised to Moses. 4 From the wilderness and this Lebanon as far as the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites to the Great Sea toward the going down of the sun shall be your territory. 5 No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life. Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you or forsake you. 6 Be strong and courageous, for you shall cause this people to inherit the land that I swore to their fathers to give them. 7 Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success[a] wherever you go. 8 This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” —Joshua 1:3-9 

- God is WITH you. 
- Be strong and COURAGEOUS. 
- MEDITATE day and night on God’s WORD. 
- Do not FEAR. 
- God is WITH you. 

4. Running zone - Let them TAKE OWNERSHIP of ministry. 

TAKEAWAY: BEGIN passing on the baton of your FAITH and MINISTRY.

A Different Spirit

Numbers 13 & 14
Tim Nay

Part of Wanderings & WondersLessons from the Wilderness

August 17, 2025

Numbers 13:1-17 

THE STORY: 
• Twelve warriors INVESTIGATED the land. 

Numbers 13:17-20 
Spies Sent to Investigate the Promised Land: 
• Are the people strong or weak? 
• Are the people many or few? 
• Is the land (soil) good or bad? 
• Are the cities, camps or strongholds? 
• Is the land rich or poor? 
• Are there trees or no trees? 
• Bring some fruit of the land.

21 So they went up and spied out the land from the wilderness of Zin to Rehob, near Lebo-hamath. 22 They went up into the Negeb and came to Hebron. Ahiman, Sheshai, and Talmai, the descendants of Anak, were there. (Hebron was built seven years before Zoan in Egypt.) —Numbers 13:21-22 

Numbers 13:25-29; 31-33 
Ten of Them Report: 
- It flows with milk and honey 
- People are too strong for us. 
- Cities are too fortified for us. 
- People are giants. 
- The land devours its inhabitants. 
- We are NOT able to go against these people.

THE STORY: 
• Twelve warriors investigated the land. 
• Ten saw DEFEAT. 

Numbers 13:30; 14:6-9 
Two of them report: 
- It’s an exceedingly good land. 
- God delights in us! 
- God will give it to us! 
- We are well able to overcome it! 
- Let’s go into Canaan at once!

THE STORY: 
• Twelve warriors investigated the land. 
• Ten saw defeat. 
• Two saw VICTORY. 

LESSONS 
What is POPULAR is NOT always RIGHT. 

13 “Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. 14 For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.” —Matthew 7:13-14 

 —Hebrews 13:7 

1 “Then all the congregation raised a loud cry, and the people wept that night. And all the people of Israel grumbled against Moses and Aaron. The whole congregation said to them, “Would that we had died in the land of Egypt! Or would that we had died in this wilderness! 3 Why is the Lord bringing us into this land, to fall by the sword? Our wives and our little ones will become a prey. Would it not be better for us to go back to Egypt?” 4 And they said to one another, “Let us choose a leader and go back to Egypt.” —Numbers 14:1-4 

LESSONS 
What is popular is not always right. 
On the road to God’s future, DO NOT look BACK.

Have the ‘DIFFERENT spirit’ Caleb had. 

 —Numbers 14:20-24 

29 “your dead bodies shall fall in this wilderness, and of all your number, listed in the census from twenty years old and upward, who have grumbled against me, 30 not one shall come into the land where I swore that I would make you dwell, except Caleb the son of Jephunneh and Joshua the son of Nun. 31 But your little ones, who you said would become a prey, I will bring in, and they shall know the land that you have rejected.” —Numbers 14:29-31 

Have the ‘different spirit’ Caleb had.

• FEAR God and not MAN. 
  
  “The remarkable thing about God is that when you fear God, you fear nothing else, whereas if you do not fear God, you fear everything else.” ― Oswald Chambers 
  
  Have the ‘different spirit’ Caleb had.
• Fear God and not man.
• TRUST God will deliver on what He PROMISES.
• Be FULLY devoted to God.
• See OBSTACLES as OPPORTUNITIES. 
  
  TAKEAWAY: 
  Follow God WHOLE-heartedly, believing He is PERSONALLY involved in your life. 

God's Limitless Power

Numbers 11:16-30
Mike Maglish

Part of Wanderings & WondersLessons from the Wilderness

August 10, 2025

16 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Gather for me seventy men of the elders of Israel, whom you know to be the elders of the people and officers over them, and bring them to the tent of meeting, and let them take their stand there with you. 17 And I will come down and talk with you there. And I will take some of the Spirit that is on you and put it on them, and they shall bear the burden of the people with you, so that you may not bear it yourself alone.” —Numbers 11:16–17 

13 “Where am I to get meat to give to all this people? For they weep before me and say, ‘Give us meat, that we may eat.’ 14 I am not able to carry all this people alone; the burden is too heavy for me. 15 If you will treat me like this, kill me at once, if I find favor in your sight, that I may not see my wretchedness.” —Numbers 11:13–15 

God ANSWERS our prayers when we are OVERWHELMED

(See Exodus 18, Acts 6) 

18 And say to the people, “Consecrate yourselves for tomorrow, and you shall eat meat, for you have wept in the hearing of the Lord, saying, ‘Who will give us meat to eat? For it was better for us in Egypt.’ Therefore the Lord will give you meat, and you shall eat. 19 You shall not eat just one day, or two days, or five days, or ten days, or twenty days, 20 but a whole month, until it comes out at your nostrils and becomes loathsome to you, because you have rejected the Lord who is among you and have wept before him, saying, ‘“’Why did we come out of Egypt?’” —Numbers 11:17–20 

God shows his POWER in EXCESS as discipline 

21 But Moses said, “The people among whom I am number six hundred thousand on foot, and you have said, ‘I will give them meat, that they may eat a whole month!’ 22 Shall flocks and herds be slaughtered for them, and be enough for them? Or shall all the fish of the sea be gathered together for them, and be enough for them?” 23 And the Lord said to Moses, “Is the Lord’s hand shortened? Now you shall see whether my word will come true for you or not.” —Numbers 11:21–23 

God CREATES and OWNS everything 

Psalm 24:1 

10 For every beast of the forest is mine, 
the cattle on a thousand hills. 
11 I know all the birds of the hills, 
and all that moves in the field is mine. 
12 If I were hungry, I would not tell you, 
for the world and its fullness are mine. —Psalm 50:10–12 

Colossians 1:16 

Deuteronomy 10:14–15 

24 So Moses went out and told the people the words of the Lord. And he gathered seventy men of the elders of the people and placed them around the tent. 25 Then the Lord came down in the cloud and spoke to him, and took some of the Spirit that was on him and put it on the seventy elders. And as soon as the Spirit rested on them, they prophesied. But they did not continue doing it. —Numbers 11:24–25 

God’s POWER is POURED OUT on us 

26 Now two men remained in the camp, one named Eldad, and the other named Medad, and the Spirit rested on them. They were among those registered, but they had not gone out to the tent, and so they prophesied in the camp. 27 And a young man ran and told Moses, “Eldad and Medad are prophesying in the camp.” 28 And Joshua the son of Nun, the assistant of Moses from his youth, said, “My lord Moses, stop them.” 29 But Moses said to him, “Are you jealous for my sake? Would that all the Lord’s people were prophets, that the Lord would put his Spirit on them!” 30 And Moses and the elders of Israel returned to the camp. —Numbers 11:26–30 

More SPIRIT EMPOWERED leaders means MORE ministry potential 

TAKEAWAY - TRUST that God meets our LIMITS with His LIMITLESS power

How to Stop ComplainingNumbers 11:1-11
Tim Nay

Part of Wanderings & Wonders

Lessons from the Wilderness

August 3, 2025

1 And the people complained in the hearing of the Lord about their misfortunes, and when the Lord heard it, his anger was kindled, and the fire of the Lord burned among them and consumed some outlying parts of the camp. 2 Then the people cried out to Moses, and Moses prayed to the Lord, and the fire died down. —Numbers 11:1-2 

Dangers of Complaining:

• Complaining is CONTAGIOUS. 

Dangers of Complaining:

• Complaining is contagious. 
• Complaining ignites God’s ANGER and JUDGMENT. 

“These are grumblers, malcontents, following their own sinful desires; they are loud-mouthed boasters, showing favoritism to gain advantage.” —Jude 16 

Dangers of Complaining:

• Complaining is contagious. 
• Complaining ignites God’s anger and judgment. 
• Complaining creates DIVISION. 

4 Now the rabble that was among them had a strong craving. And the people of Israel also wept again and said, “Oh that we had meat to eat! 5 We remember the fish we ate in Egypt that cost nothing, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic. 6 But now our strength is dried up, and there is nothing at all but this manna to look at.” —Numbers 11:4-6 

Dangers of Complaining:

• Complaining is contagious. 
• Complaining ignites God’s anger and judgment. 
• Complaining creates division. 
• Complaining brings DISCOURAGEMENT. 

10 Moses heard the people weeping throughout their clans, everyone at the door of his tent. And the anger of the Lord blazed hotly, and Moses was displeased. 11 Moses said to the Lord, “Why have you dealt ill with your servant? And why have I not found favor in your sight, that you lay the burden of all these people on me? 12 Did I conceive all these people? Did I give them birth, that you should say to me, ‘Carry them in your bosom, as a nurse carries a nursing child,’ to the land that you swore to give their fathers? 13 Where am I to get meat to give to all these people? For they weep before me and say, ‘Give us meat, that we may eat.’ 14 I am not able to carry all these people alone; the burden is too heavy for me. 15 If you will treat me like this, kill me at once, if I find favor in your sight, that I may not see my wretchedness.” —Numbers 11:10-15 

14 “Do all things without grumbling or disputing, 15 that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world,” —Philippians 2:14-15 

How to Stop Complaining: 
1. Bring your complaints to God in PRAYER. 

6 “Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.” —Philippians 4:6-7 (The Message) 

How to Stop Complaining: 
1. Bring your complaints to God in prayer. 
2. REMEMBER God’s PROVISIONS in the past. 

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” —1 Thessalonians 5:18 

How to Stop Complaining: 
1. Bring your complaints to God in prayer. 
2. Remember God’s provisions in the past. 
3. Learn to be CONTENT. 

TAKEAWAY: Understand complaining is SINFUL and does NOTHING to improve anything.

Rules in Relationship

Exodus 19 & 20
Tim Nay

Part of Wanderings & WondersLessons from the Wilderness

July 27, 2025

1 On the third new moon after the people of Israel had gone out of the land of Egypt, on that day they came into the wilderness of Sinai. 2 They set out from Rephidim and came into the wilderness of Sinai, and they encamped in the wilderness. There Israel encamped before the mountain. —Exodus 19:1-2 

31 Israel saw the great power that the Lord used against the Egyptians, so the people feared the Lord, and they believed in the Lord and in his servant Moses. —Exodus 14:31 

Rules without Relationship = Rebellion 

Preparing Our Hearts for Rules in Relationships:

• Have a WILLINGNESS to obey/SUBMIT.

 —Exodus 19:3-6 

Preparing Our Hearts for Rules in Relationships:

• Have a willingness to obey/submit. 
• Be sensitive enough to LISTEN. 

9 And the Lord said to Moses, “Behold, I am coming to you in a thick cloud, that the people may hear when I speak with you, and may also believe you forever.” —Exodus 19:9 

Preparing Our Hearts for Rules in Relationships:

• Have a willingness to obey/submit. 
• Be sensitive enough to listen. 
• Do YOUR part to PREPARE and PROTECT. 

 —Exodus 19:10-14 

Consecration = “the separation of oneself from things that are unclean, specially anything that would contaminate one’s relationship with a perfect God.” 

9 “I wrote to you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people— 10 not at all meaning the sexually immoral of this world, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters, since then you would need to go out of the world. 11 But now I am writing to you not to associate with anyone who bears the name of brother if he is guilty of sexual immorality or greed, or is an idolater, reviler, drunkard, or swindler—not even to eat with such a one.” —I Corinthians 5:9-11 

Preparing Our Hearts for Rules in Relationships: 
• Have a willingness to obey/submit. 
• Be sensitive enough to listen. 
• Do your part to prepare and protect. 
• Be RESPECTFUL of God’s PRESENCE. 

21 And the Lord said to Moses, “Go down and warn the people, lest they break through to the Lord to look and many of them perish. 22 Also let the priests who come near to the Lord consecrate themselves, lest the Lord break out against them.” 23 And Moses said to the Lord, “The people cannot come up to Mount Sinai, for you yourself warned us, saying, ‘Set limits around the mountain and consecrate it.’ —Exodus 19:21-23 

Learning the Ten Commandments 
Memory by Numbers 
Exodus 20

What Rules Cannot Do: 
• Rules cannot fix ATTITUDE.

 —Amos 5:21-24 

8 “These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. 9 They worship me in vain; their teachings are merely human rules.” —Matthew 15:8-9 

What Rules Cannot Do: 
• Rules cannot fix attitude. 
• Rules cannot be the SUBSTITUTE for HUMAN interaction. 

What Rules Cannot Do: 
• Rules cannot fix attitude. 
• Rules cannot be the substitute for human interaction. 
• Rules cannot KEEP people from SINNING. 

” —Colossians 2:20-23 

What Rules Cannot Do: 
• Rules cannot fix attitude 
• Rules cannot be the substitute for human interactions 
• Rules cannot keep people from sinning. 
• Rules cannot cover EVERY situation. 

WHY RULES? They are to be a BENEFIT to relationships. 

TAKEAWAY: The Law of God LEADS us to our NEED for a Savior.