Paul’s principle for Christian discipleship is to accept the circumstances you are in rather than seek to change them - even if they are difficult. God can use you in those circumstances. He applies this to relationships, circumcision and slavery.

Paul explained his method of reaching all the people he met in his mission to the Gentiles. He identified with them so he could preach the gospel to them. Paul described the Christian life as a race with a prize at the end - eternal life.

This passage is known as the “Philippian Hymn'. Paul urges the believers to think about Jesus and to copy his example of humility and love.

Paul’s teaching on marriage was challenging to the Christians in Ephesus. The husband must imitate Christ and his servant leadership. The wife could then respect and submit to that leadership.

Paul continues his teaching about Christian family life and discipleship. He teaches both the children and their fathers and also both slaves and their masters. Being a Christian affects the whole of life.

The Gospel and Adoption into God’s Family: Galatians 4:1-7Paul introduces the ideas of adoption and inheritance based on the experience of the Gentile areas he is preaching to. Adopted children could inherit all that belonged to the family. All those blessings are ours in Christ Jesus. We do not need to look back.

Paul continues to explain that the covenant made with Abraham is the foundation of faith whereas the Law of Moses has become obsolete. He explains the importance of the Law to highlight sin that separates us from God. Now all are equal in God’s sight if they have faith in Jesus.

Paul uses the imagery of slavery to show what was the old life but compares it to the freedom of the new life. We are obligated to please God in response to God’s generous love towards us. We choose to follow God.

Paul develops his understanding of the gospel. Everyone falls short of God’s standard. With Christ, there is a new era; he has the power to rescue humanity. Paul uses imagery from the law courts, the slave market and the Temple sacrifice to explain Christ’s death on the cross