Paul's letter by letter curriculum for maturing in Spirit and having Christ formed within you

Paul's Curriculum for Maturing in Spirit and having Christ formed within you.

• Romans to Galatians is focused predominantly on believer growing up and learning of God while here on earth.
• Ephesians to Thessalonians is focused on sonship and sets sights on life in the heavenly position and for eternity.

 

Romans:

Purpose

Paul wrote the letter to the Romans to prepare the believers in Rome for his visit and to present a comprehensive explanation of the gospel. He aimed to address both Jewish and Gentile believers, emphasizing the righteousness that comes from God through faith in Jesus Christ. Paul also sought to unify the diverse Christian community in Rome and to garner support for his planned mission to Spain.

Key Themes

The Righteousness of God: Paul emphasizes that righteousness comes from God and is received through faith in Jesus Christ. He explains that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, but are justified freely by His grace.

Justification by Faith: Paul argues that justification is by faith alone, not by works of the law. He uses Abraham as an example of someone who was justified by faith before the law was given.

The Universality of Sin: Paul highlights that both Jews and Gentiles are under the power of sin and in need of salvation. He explains that the law reveals sin but cannot save.

Life in the Spirit: Paul contrasts life in the flesh with life in the Spirit. He emphasizes that believers are no longer under condemnation and are empowered by God's Spirit within them, which is the written Word of God renewing the mind, so as to live according to God's will.

God's Sovereignty and Israel: Paul addresses the question of Israel's place in God's plan. He explains that God's promises to Israel have not failed and that there is a future for Israel in God's redemptive plan. This is a cornerstone that introduces dispensational truth and a deeper understanding of how the Gentiles fit into God's greater redemption plan.

Practical Christian Living: Paul provides practical instructions for living out the Christian faith, including love for one another, submission to authorities, and the use of spiritual gifts.

Below is a general outline of the Romans foundation of salvation, justification and sanctification. Of critical note is the lessons of walking by grace and faith, avoiding the flesh and the law. Romans 5 to 8 and 12 are key chapters that conclude valuable foundational lessons learned in the chapters that precede them.

• Rom.1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.
• Rom.3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
• Rom.4-5 Justified by faith without works (by Gods work and grace)
• Rom.5 Cannot live by faith in the flesh
• Rom.6-7 Cannot live by faith under the law
• Rom.8-12 No condemnation, set free, renew the mind, be a living sacrifice,
• Rom.13-16 Living practical Christian morality

 

Corinthians:

A book of correction: Believers trying to live the Christian life in the flesh. Corinthians, especially 1 Corinthians, parallels with Romans chapter 6 in which Paul teaches that we are dead to sin. The Corinthian letters show what a church will look like if they violate the principle taught in Romans 6.

• 1 Corinthians 3:1 And I, brethren, could not speak to you as to spiritual people but as to carnal, as to babes in Christ. 2 I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: … 3 For ye are yet carnal:
• 2 Corinthians 13:1 This will be the third time I am coming to you. “By the mouth of two or three witnesses every word shall be established.” 5 Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates (rogue, villains, wrongdoers, sinners destined to damnation)?

Comparison of 1 and 2 Corinthians

1 Corinthians focuses on correcting specific issues and providing practical guidance for living a Christian life. It addresses the immediate problems such as immorality, lawsuits among believers, and issues related to marriage, food offered to idols, and the proper conduct of worship services, and then provides corrective measures. 

On the other hand, 2 Corinthians is more about Paul's personal relationship with the church, his defense of his ministry, and encouraging the church to live out their faith through generosity and reconciliation. Essentially, it deals with the aftermath of the first letter, being more personal and less structured than 1 Corinthians. It focuses on reconciliation and encouragement for the church to continue growing in faith and generosity.

 

Galatians:

Purpose

Paul wrote the letter to the Galatians as a letter of reproof to address a crisis in the churches of Galatia. False teachers, often referred to as Judaizers, were convincing the Galatian Christians that they needed to follow Jewish law, including circumcision, to be truly saved. Paul vehemently opposed this teaching, emphasizing that salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ alone, not by works of the law. This letter parallels with Romans 6:14 to 7:25 in which Paul teaches that we are delivered from the law. The letter shows what a church will look like if they violate the principle and choose to go back under law to serve God.

Key Themes

Justification by Faith: Paul argues that believers are justified by faith in Jesus Christ, not by observing the law. He uses the example of Abraham, who was justified by faith before the law was given.

Freedom in Christ: Paul emphasizes that Christians are free from the bondage of the law. This freedom, however, is not a license to sin but to live by the Spirit.

The Role of the Law: Paul explains that the law was a guardian until Christ came, but now that faith has come, believers are no longer under the law.

Unity in Christ: Paul stresses that in Christ, there is no distinction between Jew and Gentile, slave and free, male and female. All are one in Christ Jesus.

Living by the Spirit: Paul encourages the Galatians to live by the Spirit and produce the fruit of the Spirit, such as love, joy, peace, and self-control.

A book of reproof: Believers trying to live the Christian life by the law.

• Gal.1:6 I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: 7 Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.
• Gal.3:1 O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? 2 This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? 3 Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?
• Galatians 4:19 My little children, for whom I labor in birth again >>> until Christ is formed in you, <<< (Paul’s ultimate goal in all his ministry!!)
• Gal.4:9 But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage? 10 Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years. 11 I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain.
• Gal.5:3 For I testify again to every man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to do the whole law. 4 Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace. ... 6 For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love. ... 18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. ... 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

 

Ephesians:

Purpose

Paul wrote the letter to the Ephesians to strengthen and encourage the believers in Ephesus and the surrounding regions. Unlike some of his other letters, Ephesians does not address specific problems or controversies within the church. Instead, it addresses the nature and purpose of the church, the body of Christ and provides a deeper spiritual foundation of guidance for living out the Christian faith.

Key Themes

Unity in Christ: Paul emphasizes the unity of all believers in Christ, breaking down the barriers between Jews and Gentiles. He highlights that all believers are part of one body, the church, with Christ as the head.

Spiritual Blessings in Christ: Paul begins the letter by praising God for the spiritual blessings believers have in Christ, including adoption, redemption, and the sealing of the Holy Spirit.

The Mystery of the Gospel: Paul reveals the mystery that was hidden for ages but is now made known: that Gentiles are fellow heirs with Jews, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.

The Church as the Body of Christ: Paul describes the church as the body of Christ, with each member having a unique role and function. He emphasizes the importance of unity, maturity, and growth within the body.

Christian Conduct: Paul provides practical instructions for living a life worthy of the calling believers have received. He addresses various aspects of Christian conduct, including relationships within the family and the workplace, and the need to put on the full armor of God to stand against spiritual warfare.

• Eph.1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: 9 Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself:
• Eph.2:6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: 7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.
• Eph.3:2 If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward: 3 How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; 5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;
• Ephesians 4:14 That we hence forth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; 15 but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ—
• Eph.2:15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace;

 

Philippians:

Purpose

This letter highlights the work of the Spirit in producing faith, love and hope in a believer. Paul has confidence in the maturity of the Philippian believers to work out their own salvation. This is not a responsibility you give a child!! It sets the sights for the high calling of God and a call to be perfect.

Paul wrote the letter to the Philippians while he was in prison. The primary purpose of the letter was to thank the Philippians for their support and generosity, particularly their financial assistance. Additionally, Paul wanted to encourage the believers to remain steadfast in their faith and to live in a manner worthy of the gospel, despite the challenges they faced.

Key Themes

Joy and Rejoicing: Despite his imprisonment, Paul repeatedly emphasizes joy and rejoicing in the Lord. He encourages the Philippians to find joy in their relationship with Christ, regardless of their circumstances.

Unity and Humility: Paul urges the believers to be united in spirit and purpose. He highlights the importance of humility, using Christ's example of selflessness and obedience as the ultimate model.

Christ's Example: Paul presents the "Christ Hymn" (Philippians 2:5-11), which describes Jesus' humility, incarnation, and exaltation. This passage serves as a powerful reminder of Christ's sacrificial love and the call for believers to imitate His attitude.

Pressing On Toward the Goal: Paul encourages the Philippians to press on toward their heavenly goal, forgetting what lies behind and striving for what lies ahead. He emphasizes the importance of perseverance and spiritual growth.

Contentment and Trust in God: Paul shares his own experience of finding contentment in all circumstances, whether in abundance or need. He encourages the believers to trust in God's provision and strength.

• Philippians 2:12 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling [license in liberty, no more laws for children]. … 15 That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke [without reproof], in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;
• Philippians 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. 15 Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded:

 

Colossians:

Purpose

Paul wrote the letter to the Colossians to address the supremacy of Christ and the dangers of false teachings because there were heretical teachings that were threatening the church. These false teachings included elements of Jewish legalism, Greek philosophy, and mysticism, which were undermining the sufficiency and supremacy of Christ. Paul aimed to reaffirm the believers' faith in Christ and to emphasize the completeness of their salvation in Him.

These believers at Colossae were mature as they were bearing fruit in every good work. This is the result of God working in and through them. Paul teaches the meat of the Word in regard to the mystery doctrine, Christ ‘formed’ in you. More focus on seeking those things that are above and placing less focus on that which is earthly.

Key Themes

The Supremacy of Christ: Paul emphasizes that Christ is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation, and the head of the church. He highlights that all things were created through Him and for Him, and that in Him all things hold together.

The Fullness of Christ: Paul stresses that in Christ, all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and that believers have been given fullness in Christ. He refutes the idea that additional spiritual practices or knowledge are needed for salvation.

Warnings Against False Teachings: Paul warns the Colossians against being deceived by hollow and deceptive philosophies, human traditions, and the worship of angels. He urges them to hold fast to Christ, who is the head of the body.

Christian Living: Paul provides practical instructions for living a life worthy of the Lord. He encourages the believers to set their minds on things above, to put to death their earthly nature, and to clothe themselves with virtues such as compassion, kindness, humility, and love.

Household Relationships: Paul addresses relationships within the household, including instructions for wives, husbands, children, and slaves. He emphasizes mutual respect and the importance of serving the Lord in all aspects of life.

• Col.1:3 We give thanks to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, 4 Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints, 5 For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; …10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;
• Col.1:26 Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: 27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:
• Col.3:1 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.

 

Thessalonians:

These are mature believers operating in faith, love, and hope to such a degree that they are ensamples for other churches in their area. There faith is growing exceedingly, and Paul is boastful about their maturity and example. They are manifesting Christ within them to the degree that they are persecuted and under constant tribulation from the world. This is a sure sign of maturity in Christ.

Paul wrote 1 Thessalonians to encourage and strengthen the believers in Thessalonica. He wanted to commend them for their faith and perseverance despite persecution, and to provide guidance on living a holy life. Additionally, Paul addressed concerns about the return of Christ and the fate of deceased believers. As a follow up letter, 2 Thessalonians addressed misunderstandings and concerns about the Day of the Lord (the return of Christ). Some believers were confused or anxious about whether the Day of the Lord had already come. Paul also addressed issues related to idleness and disorderly conduct within the church.

Both letters aim to strengthen the faith of the Thessalonian believers and provide guidance on living a life that honors God.

• 1 Thess.1:2 We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers, 3 remembering without ceasing your work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the sight of our God and Father, 4 knowing, beloved brethren, your election by God. 5 For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance, as you know what kind of men we were among you for your sake. 6 And you became followers of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit, 7 so that you became examples to all in Macedonia and Achaia who believe.
• 2 Thess.1:3 We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is fitting, because your faith grows exceedingly, and the love of every one of you all abounds toward each other, 4 so that we ourselves boast of you among the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that you endure, 5 which is manifest evidence of the righteous judgment of God, that you may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God,

Additional Info:

It is interesting to note how some of Paul's epistles flow into each other by ending off with a specific idea, and then continuing with that idea in the beginning of the next epistle. The fact that Paul's letters were not written in the order they appear in the Bible makes this occurrence quite in intriguing and adds credibility to the structure, or curriculum, in the church epistles.

2 Corinthians to Galatians:

• At the end of 2 Corinthians, Paul warns against false teachers who preach another gospel (2 Corinthians 11:13-15).
• Galatians begins with Paul expressing his astonishment that the Galatians have so quickly turned away from the true gospel (Galatians 1:6-7).

Galatians to Ephesians:

• Galatians concludes by emphasizing the concept of the “new creature” (Galatians 6:15).
• Ephesians starts to educate believers on the new creature when Paul writes about their new identity in Christ and the spiritual blessings they have received (Ephesians 1:3-14).

Ephesians to Philippians:

• At the end of Ephesians, Paul encourages believers to put on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18).
• Philippians then shows how to practically live out this spiritual armor through joy, unity, and humility (Philippians 1:27-2:18).

See also: The Big Picture: As grace believers, what is our primary objective? (Part 2) (thebigpicturelink.blogspot.com)