Galatians

Paul expresses astonishment that the Galatians are turning to a different gospel. He defends his apostolic authority, insisting his gospel came by direct revelation from Jesus Christ, not from any human source. He recounts his conversion and early years of ministry.

Paul recounts his visit to Jerusalem where the apostles affirmed his mission to the Gentiles. He confronts Peter for hypocrisy in withdrawing from Gentile fellowship. He declares: I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.

Paul argues passionately that the Galatians received the Spirit by faith, not by observing the law. Abraham was justified by faith, and the law was a guardian until Christ came. In Christ there is neither Jew nor Gentile, slave nor free, male nor female—all are one.

Paul explains that before Christ, we were enslaved under the law like children under guardians. But when the fullness of time came, God sent His Son so we might receive adoption as children. Paul pleads with the Galatians not to return to slavery, using the allegory of Hagar and Sarah.

Paul declares that it is for freedom that Christ has set us free—do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. He teaches that the entire law is fulfilled in one command: love your neighbor as yourself. He contrasts the works of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

Paul instructs believers to gently restore those caught in sin and to carry each other's burdens. He warns that God is not mocked—whatever a person sows, they will reap. He urges doing good to all people, especially believers. He closes emphasizing the new creation over circumcision. Let us not become weary in doing good.