Many people grew up in a strict religious environment. And even if they didn’t there was often the perception, at least, that religion was rigorous and restrictive. How do we move on from a childhood religion into a grown-up faith? Appreciate religion for its role as a Gal 3:23-25; 4:8-11 What are the benefits? It provides It exposes our And it points us to Move on to a vital faith with God as our Gal 3:26-27 How is this better? In Christ, we all come together as Gal 3:28 It is no longer about our performance, but God’s Gal 3:29 We are released from being Gal 4:1-3 And, instead, set free to be Gal 4:4-7 HomeGroup Questions: If you grew up going to church, how would you tell me you grew up in church without telling me you grew up in church? b) If you didn’t grow up going to church, what was your perception of religion from the outside looking in? Read Galatians 3:23-4:11 and review the outline. What would you like to talk about more with your group? Look at the three benefits of religion. What would you emphasize? What would you add? What are the drawbacks of growing up religious? Paul compares the Law (the rules and regulations of religion) to a guardian. What analogies do you see? When God becomes a Father (not just a guardian), how does it change how we view our faith? How does it change the way we look at the commandments of the Bible? Doug said, “Religion tells us how God wants us to live, but faith in God's promise makes it possible as they show us who we are becoming.” What commands in Scripture can also be turned to promises (Doug used the example, “You shall not steal.”)? Can we really not think about our faith in terms of duty? See if you can argue both sides. How can your group pray for you?