Set Free: The Book of Galatians

Galatians is a letter written by Paul to the churches in Galatia, which was in present-day Turkey. These churches had both Jewish and Gentile (non-Jewish) Christians. Paul, an apostle—someone sent out by Jesus Christ Himself—was a messenger to the Gentiles. When Paul found out some Jewish Christians were forcing the Gentile Christians to follow the law of Moses, particularly male circumcision, he wrote this letter. In the letter, he first proves that (1) he was chosen by God to preach and that (2) there is only one gospel message. Second, he emphasizes salvation is through faith in Jesus alone, not things we do, such as circumcision. Lastly, Paul mentions the freedom found in Jesus Christ and the call for Christians to live out their freedom by showing the love Jesus has shown them. Many Jews continued to follow the law of Moses even after they became Christians. However, they thought the Gentile Christians should follow the law in addition to their faith in Jesus. Paul warns the Galatians that whoever preaches this new message should be cursed. A person can only be saved through faith in Jesus Christ, not by obeying the law. Paul reminds his readers that even Abraham, the father of God’s people, became righteous because of his faith in God. But Paul suspects his readers will have a question: If the law doesn’t save, why did God give it? Paul explains that the law was given to reveal sin so that we would realize we were guilty and in need of a Savior. The good news is, those who trust in Jesus have been set free from sin. The book of Galatians reminds us of an important truth: only one work is worth anything as far as salvation—the cross of Jesus Christ. Jesus’ death paid for sin and saves anyone—Jew or Gentile—who believes in Him. • Renae Aberdeen • What do you do when you encounter a new teaching? Where can we turn to find out what is true (2 Timothy 3:12-17)? • Read Ephesians 2:8-10. Why is it so important that nothing we do can save us from sin and death? It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. Galatians 5:1 (NIV)

Read Verses:

Psalm 50; Romans 2:1-16; 2 Peter 3:8-18