Galatians Introduction

The book of Galatians is a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the churches in Galatia. Its central theme is the defense of the gospel of grace, emphasizing that salvation comes by faith in Jesus Christ, not by works of the Law. Paul addresses the issue of Judaizers, who were teaching that Gentile believers must follow Jewish customs, such as circumcision, to be saved. Paul passionately argues that believers are justified by faith and not by the Law, and he stresses the freedom found in Christ. This letter strongly highlights the distinction between living by the Spirit versus living under the Law.

Galatians 1
Paul begins by affirming his apostleship as being from God, not man. He expresses his astonishment that the Galatians are turning to a different gospel, one that perverts the gospel of Christ. Paul warns that anyone preaching another gospel is accursed. He recounts his conversion and how he received the gospel directly through a revelation of Jesus Christ, not from human teachings, emphasizing that his message has divine authority.

Galatians 2
Paul continues by discussing his visit to Jerusalem, where the apostles affirmed his mission to preach to the Gentiles. He recalls confronting Peter in Antioch for acting hypocritically by separating himself from Gentile believers. Paul insists that justification comes through faith in Jesus Christ and not by observing the Law. He highlights that believers have been crucified with Christ, and now live by faith in Him, not by adhering to the Law.

Galatians 3
Paul asks the Galatians why they are returning to the Law after receiving the Spirit through faith. He explains that Abraham was justified by faith, not by works, and that the Law cannot bring life. The purpose of the Law was to lead people to Christ, but now that faith has come, believers are no longer under the Law. Paul declares that in Christ, there is no distinction between Jew and Gentile; all are one in Christ and heirs according to the promise given to Abraham.

Galatians 4
Paul uses the analogy of a child and an heir to show the difference between being under the Law and being free in Christ. He explains that before faith, people were enslaved to the Law, but now they are adopted as children of God. Paul expresses concern that the Galatians are returning to the bondage of the Law by observing Jewish festivals. He reminds them of their initial acceptance of the gospel and urges them not to be led astray by false teachers.

Galatians 5
Paul emphasizes the freedom believers have in Christ and warns them not to return to the yoke of slavery under the Law. He states that circumcision and adherence to the Law are of no value in Christ; what matters is faith working through love. Paul encourages the Galatians to walk by the Spirit and not gratify the desires of the flesh. He contrasts the works of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit, urging believers to live according to the Spirit’s leading.

Galatians 6
Paul concludes with practical exhortations, urging believers to bear one another’s burdens and restore those who have fallen into sin. He reminds them that whatever a person sows, they will also reap, encouraging them to do good, especially to those of the household of faith. Paul stresses that circumcision and the Law are meaningless compared to being a new creation in Christ. He finishes by affirming his authority and blessing those who walk in this truth.