Introduction to Galatians

Introduction In this lesson, we consider the contrast between the Gospel of Christ and the Law of Moses as seen in the letter to the Galatians.

Establishment of the Church in Galatia Paul established churches in the region of southern Galatia on his first missionary journey. Later, he passed through the upper region of Galatia, having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia (Acts 16:6-8).

Establishment of the Church in Galatia The churches that Paul established in Pisidian Antioch (Acts 13:14-49), Iconium (Acts 13:51- 14:5), Lycaonia, Lystra, and Derbe (Acts 14:6-23). Passing through Pisidia and Pamphylia, Paul and Barnabas preached the gospel in Perga, and then returned to Antioch, where they reported how God had opened a door of faith unto the Gentiles (Acts 14:24).

Summary of Galatians Introduction (Gal. 1:1-5). Those who distort the gospel of Christ stand accursed (Gal. 1:6-9). One cannot simultaneously seek the praises of men and God (Gal. 1:10).

Relevant Background The gospel that Paul preached was received as a direct revelation from Jesus Christ (Gal. 1:11-12). The apostle recalls his history as a persecutor (Gal. 1:13-14). Paul relates his post-conversion experiences (Gal. 1:15-17). He tells of his meeting with Cephas and James, and subsequent ministry (Gal. 1:18-24).

Defending the Faith Before, during and after the Jerusalem council, Paul militantly opposed the Judaizing heresy (Gal. 2:1-10). He openly rebuked Peter's hypocritical inconsistency on this very issue (Gal. 2:11-14). Man is justified—not by the works of the Law—but through faith in Jesus Christ (Gal. 2:15-21).

Confronting the Judaizers Asking a series of related questions, the apostle challenges his readers (Gal. 3:1-5). Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to Him as righteousness; those who are of faith are blessed with Abraham, the believer (Gal. 3:6-9).

God's Promise Seeking justification by meritorious law keeping leads to a curse, not a blessing (Gal. 3:10-14). The seed promise that God made to Abraham preceded the law by 400 years and was singular in number, point to One, i.e., Jesus Christ (Gal. 3:15-18).

God's Precepts Why the Law then? It was added because of transgressions (i.e., revealing man's need), ordained through angels by the agency of a mediator (i.e., Moses), until the fulfillment of the seed promise (i.e., Christ) (Gal. 3:19-22).

The Law was a Tutor The Law was a tutor to bring us to Christ; now that faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor. Baptized believers are one in Jesus Christ, counted as Abraham's descendants, heirs according to the promise (Gal. 3:23-29).

The Law was a Guardian Before reaching maturity, heirs are subject to guardians and managers; in like manner, we were held under bondage to elemental things/first principles; yet, in the fullness of time, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the Law, to redeem those who were under the Law, that we might receive adoption as sons (Gal. 4:1- 7).

Flawed Focus Why romanticize an imperfect past instead of rejoicing in the perfect present? You observe scrupulously outdated customs and traditions. I fear for you, that perhaps I have labored over you in vain (Gal. 4:8-11).

Remember and Compare Paul begs the Galatians, "Remember my sacrificial service and recall your past affection. Contrast both with the exploitive and self-serving approach of the Judaizers" (Gal. 4:12-20).

An O.T. Allegory The story of Hagar (the mother of Ishmael), and Sarah (mother of Isaac) serves as an allegory of the Old and New Covenants. One is a slave; the other is a free woman; One corresponds to Mt. Sinai; the other to Mt. Zion. One represents the slavery associated with present Jerusalem; the other depicts the freedom of heavenly Jerusalem; the son of the bondwoman was cast out; the son of the freewoman is counted as the heir (Gal. 4:21-31).

Freedom v. Slavery Therefore, do not sacrifice the present freedom you enjoy in Christ (Gal. 5:1). Binding circumcision is a spiritually disastrous policy, placing proponents and practitioners under the obligation of keeping the whole Law, and severing their relationship with Christ (Gal. 5:2- 6).

Sharp Criticism Paul expresses strong and pointed criticism of the Judaizers (Gal. 5:7-12).

True Freedom Freedom in Christ should be viewed as an opportunity for love and service (Gal. 5:13-15). Therefore, let us walk, not according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit, avoiding the works of the flesh and being adorned with the fruit of the spirit (Gal. 5:16-26).

True Freedom In the final chapter, Paul encourages believers to "bear one another's burdens" and "bear your own burden" (Gal. 6:1-5). He offers various exhortations relating to sacrifice and service (Gal. 6:6-10). In closing, Paul offers a final warning against the Judaizing heresy (Gal. 6:11-18).

Conclusion Let us recognize the danger of trying to please both man and God. Let us militantly defend the gospel of Christ.`