Galatians WK 7 Handout 2

The concept that God's way of interacting with his people remains consistent, even before the Torah was given to Moses. This continuity is exemplified by Abraham's relationship with God based on trust, which predates the Torah.

Paul argues that faith, not adherence to the Law, is the foundation of true righteousness. This aligns with God's promise to Abraham, where blessings were granted based on faith, not on following specific rules.

Paul emphasizes that trust in God, mediated through faith in Jesus, is fundamental to both Torah observance and a true relationship with God. This trust transcends the limitations of the Law and opens up a direct connection with God.

Paul argues that true heirs of Abraham are those who follow the path of faith, rather than those who seek righteousness through strict adherence to the Law. This suggests a broader interpretation of Abraham's legacy beyond ethnicity.

Paul uses the example of Sarah and Hagar to illustrate the transition from a life bound by legalistic observance to a life of freedom and faith. He encourages Christians to avoid returning to a life of rigid adherence to the Law.

The process of being made righteous, or sharing God-like righteousness at the core of one's character. This transformation is not achieved through legalistic actions but through a spiritual change.

A key concept in Pauline theology, referring to the process of being declared righteous (made right with God). It is not a legal act of forgiveness, but a spiritual transformation.

The Greek word for 'righteousness', which Paul uses to convey the idea of being transformed to share God-like righteousness.

The fundamental character trait of God, the essence of being morally right and just.

The ethical lifestyle of a Christian, shaped by the indwelling Spirit of Jesus. It is not based on a legalistic list of rules but on a transformed heart and actions.

A key element of gospel ethics, emphasizing the importance of treating others as God's image-bearers with respect and dignity.

The Jewish law, a gift from God that provided a way towards righteousness, but ultimately insufficient to bring about complete transformation.

The concept that Christians are not free to do whatever they want. Their freedom is within the framework of God's will and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

A Jewish term that refers to the written and oral instructions given by God to Moses. It's more than just rules, it's a guide for living, a way to connect with God, and an expression of trust in God.

In the context of Paul's teachings, this phrase refers to following the Torah's instructions to show your dedication to God.

This refers to trusting in God directly through faith in Jesus Christ, without relying solely on following the Torah's commandments for salvation.

The concept that believing in God, specifically through trust in Jesus, is the primary way to have a relationship with God, rather than just following the Torah's commandments.

Paul uses this example to illustrate the point that God's approach to people is consistent. Whether it was Abraham trusting in God before the Torah, or Christians trusting in God through Jesus, a trusting relationship with God is key.

Paul argues that you cannot have both. These two approaches are separate ways of relating to God.

Being made righteous in the core of your character, involving a transformation in who you are, not just a removal of guilt or a change in status.

This refers to a type of spiritual favor or blessing from God. In the Old Testament, this was often used in relation to kings and divine figures showing their favor.

A relationship of trust with God through Jesus - a personal familiarity and reliance, beyond just intellectual understanding.

To achieve salvation through religious law or moral rules alone, rather than through God's grace and faith.

The Greek word for faith, expressing both belief in something and a personal relationship of trust with someone.

Paul's main focus in Galatians and Romans is faith as a personal relationship with God, rather than a set of beliefs, doctrines, or a system of rules.

True righteousness is rooted in faith, not merely in following rules or laws.

Justification refers to being made right with God, not just declared right; it implies a deep transformation.

The translation of dikaioō in Galatians and Paul is tricky; 'righteousized' is the best, though unconventional, term.

While the term 'made righteous' is understandable, it can erase the verb aspect of dikaioō and focus too much on the state of being righteous, overlooking the process.

The view that Judaism, Catholicism, and Protestantism are fundamentally different religions based on their approach to faith, Law, and salvation.

Luther argued that salvation comes through faith alone, rejecting the Catholic emphasis on good works for salvation.

The belief that one can be saved by following Jewish Law and performing good works.

The concept that God provides transformative power to become more godly, even while requiring good works.

A new perspective on Paul's writings that emphasizes the continuity between Judaism and Christianity.

A term used to describe Judaism as a covenant-based religion where adherence to the Mosaic Law is essential.

The understanding that Torah, or Jewish Law, was not just a set of rules but a gift from God to Israel.

Both first-century Judaism and Christianity were fundamentally based on faith and grace, not just adherence to the Law.

In covenantal nomism, these markers determine who belongs to the covenant. They function as the gatekeepers of the covenant community. Examples include circumcision, food laws, and Sabbath observance.

This concept emphasizes the reliance on God's grace and the significance of boundary markers in defining who is within the covenant.

Paul's shift from Jewish practices like circumcision and dietary laws to faith in Christ as the key to being part of God's people.

This perspective argues that both Judaism and Christianity were religions of grace, based on covenant, and that both relied on boundary markers to identify their members.

The New Perspective argues that Judaism was not simply a strict legalistic system, but also embraced God's grace. It challenges the idea that Judaism was merely about following rules.

This refers to the understanding that Torah, often viewed as a set of rules, was actually seen as a gift of grace in early Jewish thought.

This perspective asserts that belief in Christ is not simply a replacement for the Law, but a transformation of our relationship with God. It's not about abandoning the Law, but entering into a deeper covenant.

The New Perspective on Paul has had significant impact on understanding Paul's writings. While it offers valuable insights, it also raises questions about the emphasis on justification by faith in Paul's theology.