An Advanced Study in Galatians: Part Two

Ordering the Messiah Community: An Advanced Study in Galatians (Part Two)

📚 Course Headline: Dive deep into the essence of early Christian identity with An Advanced Study in Galatians: Part Two. Led by the esteemed New Testament scholar N.T. Wright, this course is a theological masterpiece that unravels the complexities of Paul's letter to the Galatians and its profound implications for understanding the Messiah community.

Course Description:

Paul’s letter to the Galatians, one of the New Testament's earliest documents, presents a fascinating snapshot of theological debates within the nascent Jesus movement. In this course, we delve into the heart of these discussions, examining how early Christians grappled with issues of identity and inclusion within the community.

• The Letter’s Context: We begin by setting the scene for Paul's intervention in Galatia, where a significant challenge to the new faith was posed: Should Gentiles convert to Christianity adopt Jewish laws, like circumcision, to be considered true believers?

• Paul’s Vision: Through Paul's arguments against this imposition, we uncover a broader vision of what it means to be part of the Messiah community. This isn't just a debate over ritual practices; it's about reconceiving family and faith in light of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection.

• Theological and Historical Journey: Spanning 37 lectures, this course is a journey through time and theology. We explore Paul's letter with a fresh perspective, considering both its original intent and its interpretation over centuries.

• Back to Basics: With N.T. Wright as our guide, we retrace our steps to understand the core issues at stake for the Galatian believers and for us today. We aim to grasp Paul's message in its historical context, shedding light on what he considered vital for the new community of faith.

Course Outline:

📌 Exploring the Messiah Community: We delve into how this community, marked by reciprocal faith in Jesus, fits within the broader narrative of God's family promised through the Old Testament.

• Fulfillment of Old Testament Promises: How does the Jesus movement align with the hopes and expectations of the Old Testament? What does this mean for understanding ethics and the Law in a New Age?

• Life in the Spirit: The role of God's spirit in shaping the life and practices of the community is examined, offering insights into the dynamic interplay between faith and spiritual guidance.

• Unity Across Ages: Prof. Wright emphasizes Paul’s ultimate focus on the unity of all believers, highlighting the timeless nature of this community's bond with Messiah Jesus.

Why Take This Course?

• Advanced Insights: For those who have already engaged with Galatians or are familiar with N.T. Wright’s work, this course offers an in-depth exploration of the text and its significance.

• Theological Clarity: We aim to demystify Paul's argument, making it accessible and relevant for modern believers.

• Resource Rich: This course is complemented by Greek lexicons and concept reflection prompts, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the text and its implications.

Join Us on this Theological Adventure:

Embark on this transformative learning journey with Ordering the Messiah Community: Part Two. Engage with the complex interplay between faith, tradition, and scripture as you uncover the depths of Paul's letter to the Galatians. Whether you are a seasoned scholar or a curious learner, this course promises to enrich your understanding of one of the most pivotal documents in Christian history. Let's explore together how this ancient text continues to resonate and shape our contemporary expressions of faith and community. 🕊️