Only One True Gospel Outline

Galatians 1:1–9 ESV

Paul, an apostle—not from men nor through man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead— and all the brothers who are with me, To the churches of Galatia: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave himself for our sins to deliver us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen. 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— not that there is another one, but there are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. 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. 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.

Guarding the One True Gospel

Bible Passage: Galatians 1:1–9

Summary: In Galatians 1:1-9, Paul passionately defends the integrity of the Gospel against distortions and false teachings, emphasizing that there is only one true message of salvation through Jesus Christ.

Application: This message encourages Christians to remain vigilant against false teachings that might lead them astray from the core tenets of their faith. It challenges believers to uphold and defend the truth of the Gospel in a world full of competing messages.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that the Gospel's truth is non-negotiable and foundational to salvation, urging the audience to discern teachings that deviate from the Gospel once delivered by Christ and the apostles.

How this passage could point to Christ: In this passage, Jesus Christ is the center of the Gospel—the only source of salvation. Paul's emphasis on the singularity of the true Gospel points to Christ's unique role in redeeming humanity, affirming His power and authority as the sole Savior.

Big Idea: To protect the integrity of our faith, we must adhere to and proclaim the one true Gospel of grace through Jesus Christ, rejecting any distortions.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, consider diving deeper into the historical context of the Galatian church using your Logos library. Look at commentary on the social and cultural factors that may have influenced the perversion of the Gospel. Explore the nuances of the term 'another gospel' and the implications of Paul's anathema in verse 9, which could sharpen your understanding of how serious the issue of false teachings is.

1. The Apostle's Authority

Galatians 1:1-3

You could begin by establishing Paul's authority as an apostle and how he opens his letter with a clear affirmation of his credentials rooted in Jesus Christ and God the Father. This credibility is essential as he tackles the false teachings threatening the Galatian church. Emphasize the grace and peace that come from God, underscoring the peace found only in the true gospel of Christ. This sets the stage for understanding the weight of Paul's message, encouraging the audience to consider their own sources of spiritual authority.

2. Christ's Central Sacrifice

Galatians 1:4-5

Perhaps focus here on the purpose of Jesus's self-giving act to rescue humanity from the present evil age and glorify God. These verses highlight the heart of the Gospel—Christ's sacrifice for our sins. Stress the singularity of this message, reinforcing that any deviation undermines the core of Christian faith. Invite your audience to reflect on Christ's unchanged mission and its impact on their lives, urging them to cling to the Gospel's purity.

3. Desertion to Deception

Galatians 1:6-7

Consider discussing the astonishment Paul feels over the Galatians' quick desertion to a different gospel. Emphasize the subtlety with which falsehood can blend with truth, making it dangerously deceptive. Encourage discernment and vigilance in recognizing and confronting distortions of the Gospel. Highlight this as a call to action for believers to stand firm amidst confusion and affirm what they know to be true in Christ.

4. Guarding Against Gospel Perversions

Galatians 1:8-9

You might conclude with the seriousness of perverting the Gospel, as expressed in Paul's anathema against those spreading false teachings. This powerful condemnation reinforces the gravity of maintaining the Gospel's purity. Discuss the implications of denying or altering the true Gospel, demonstrating the eternal consequences. Encourage the audience to take a stand for the Gospel with courage and clarity, upholding it as the only message of salvation.