11/08/2026 – Cornerstone Bible Study – Richard Goff –

This lesson emphasizes the Reformation principle of diligent individual study of Scripture while continuing the examination of two perspectives on Paul’s visit to Jerusalem. Its focus brings careful attention to the biblical text together with the ongoing study of Galatians 2:1–10.

In this lesson, the study moves into Galatians 2 and begins examining two perspectives on Paul’s visit to Jerusalem. Attention to Paul’s travels, his Jerusalem visits, and their historical setting frames the discussion of this important episode in his account.

This lesson focuses on Paul’s insistence that his gospel and apostleship came directly from Christ, not from human counsel, other apostles, or churches he visited. His account in Galatians 1:16–22 establishes the source of his message and authority before his missionary journeys.

Continuing the study of Paul’s autobiographical account in Galatians 1–2, this lesson considers how his history substantiates the divine origin of his gospel. Paul’s account serves as evidence that the message he preached was revealed by God rather than invented by people.

This message connects courageous spiritual leadership with properly ordered fear, dependence on God, eternal hope, and compassion. Peter’s compromise in Galatians provides a warning that seemingly ordinary social influences can weaken conviction, calling leaders to trust the Lord rather than their own understanding.

Richard Goff explains why Christians can reckon trials as joy without pretending that suffering is comfortable. Because God uses tested faith to produce endurance and maturity, believers can face hardship with confidence in His completing work rather than treating discomfort as purposeless.

This message distinguishes courageous spiritual leadership from fear-driven reactions and outward displays of masculinity. Surveying biblical examples, it points men toward fearing God, depending on His Word, sacrificially shepherding others, confronting sin, and persevering through hardship rather than cultivating a platform or image.

This lesson examines Paul’s insistence that the gospel comes from God rather than human invention. Against the demand to add circumcision to faith in Christ, it defends the gospel of grace and distinguishes receiving God’s message from merely hearing it.