Introduction

Explain the background to Galatians and how it is likely to be the earliest letter we have in the New Testament. Give some details on the circumstances that led up to Paul’s initial arrival in Antioch as well as his sending on and his return from his first missionary journey. Try to help people get a feel for the emotions of Paul as he receives news that the churches in Galatia have been captured by Judaizers.

An apostle with the true gospel

• Explain: why does Paul mention his apostleship? What does he mean by men and man?

• Explain: when was Paul called by Jesus Christ? Why does he defend his office?

• Explain: what is the gospel fundamentally about?

• Explain: why does Paul have a doxology and an Amen response so early in his letter?

Responding with Amen

• Explain/Apply: how does the apostolic authority of Paul relate to the authority of Scripture?

• Explain/Apply: what are some of the ways in which Christians today go back to the Mosaic law? Why are we so tempted to make a place for good works when it comes to our salvation?

Concluding prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank you that you called and sent Paul to proclaim your Word throughout Galatia. Thank you for using him to bring your truth to your people, that he wrote letters that we can read so that we may also hear the voice of your Spirit today. Thank you also for the love that you have shown to us, and for sending your Son to bear your wrath in our stead so that we can be rescued from this present evil age and look forward to eternal life in your presence. Please help us to listen carefully to your Word, to submit to your instruction, and to grow in our understanding of what you have done for us in Christ. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.