First, this is the first time I've ever heard the terms "Federal Vision" or "New Perspectives on Paul." Can someone explain those in one sentence or two?
Second, I'm really interested in the Book of Galatians since I will be leading a group through that Book the next six weeks. I know that "freedom" is a common theme, but now I am seeing "one in Christ" as a theme also. The group is made up of men and women and I am afraid that the "neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, MALE NOR FEMALE" part is going to blow up in my face! How do I get the group to the "lowest common denominator?"
Please look at these verses:
Acts 21:25
Acts 15:1-35
Romans 10:1-13
They describe the Council at Jerusalem and their conclusion on what a Gentile should adhere to as a follower of Jesus Christ. They also explain the "Gospel." It all seems so very, very simple. There are only, like, what...FOUR things the Council says Gentile believers should worry about doing/not doing? Heck, that's less than it takes to join a solid, Bible-believing church in America today! So...what's the deal? Have we complicated the Gospel? Have we added to it? Is it too hard to be THAT free in Christ or to watch someone else be THAT free???
Finally, what about my life in Christ AFTER I believe? What "principles" do I now adhere to as a NON-JEWISH believer in Jesus? Isn't it even MORE hair-raising to try and live as a follower of Christ AFTER believing in Him and have such a simple FREE life? NO ONE will let me do that!!!
What are your thoughts?
Is anyone really FREE out there???
Diamond Dave