Galatians: A 12-Week Study

Knowing the Bible

by Geoff Ziegler, J.I. Packer (Editor)

The Knowing the Bible series is a resource designed to help Bible readers better understand and apply God’s Word. These 12-week studies lead participants through books of the Bible and are made up of four basic (1) Reflection questions help readers engage the text at a deeper level; (2) “Gospel Glimpses” highlight the gospel of grace throughout each book; (3) “Whole-Bible Connections” show how any given passage connects to the Bible’s overarching story of redemption, culminating in Christ; and (4) “Theological Soundings” identify how historic orthodox doctrines are taught or reinforced throughout Scripture. With contributions from an array of influential pastors and church leaders, these gospel-centered studies will help Christians see and cherish the message of God’s grace on each and every page of the Bible.

The book of Galatians is one of the apostle Paul’s most impassioned and eloquent letters. It warns Christians of the dangers of both legalism and lawlessness, while calling them to live lives that are shaped by the gospel. In this study, pastor Geoff Ziegler walks readers through the promises, warnings, and gospel declarations found in Galatians. Both accessible and theologically robust, this study will help Christians find freedom in their identity as God’s adopted children.

99 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 31, 2015

Reviews

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is another great study guide in Crossway's "Knowing the Bible" series. One thing I realized that I really appreciated this time around is that each 12-week study has an overview at the beginning and a summary and conclusion at the end. The conclusion is especially helpful on reflecting on the book as a whole. When I get to the end of a book it can be easy to forget what I learned at the beginning and the reminder of how the whole book is laced together is so important.

[Matthew C. · Rating 3 out of 5]

We used this book to guide a Bible study at a friend's home. It "does what it says on the tin," that is, it explained the basic premise and crucial aspects of Galatians. Unfortunately, I found it too basic and repetitive. Furthermore, the hypothetical applications were cliché and tired (though not improper). This would be appropriate for a brand new believer, but not so much for a moderately well-read layperson.

[Lisa Maxwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Used as a guide for a church-sponsored women's bible study, Ziegler's book is a great resource. I loved the weekly chapter headings, which informed ( The Place of the Passage, The Big Picture), connected other biblical passages ( Gospel Glimpses, Whole Bible Connections, Theological Insights), and encouraged thoughtful reflection (Reflection & Discussion, Personal Implications, As You Finish This Unit...). I've done a lot of bible studies on a lay level, as well as at the collegiate level, and this is one of the best.

My main peccadillo is that the passages are not produced in the book. I think it's helpful for everyone to be working off one translation in a meeting of lay learners because we can sometimes get hung up on textual differences.

Highly recommended! Particularly if read in conjunction with Martin Luther's commentary on this epistle.