Placement in the Holy Bible:
- Ninth book of the New Testament
Author:
- Paul, who wrote this letter to provide messages and instructions to the churches in Galatia.
Intended Audience:
- Members of the churches in Galatia and all Christians seeking guidance on righteousness, freedom, and spirituality.
Purpose:
- To protect the churches in Galatia from the influence of other teachers and false teachings.
- To clarify the importance of salvation and freedom through faith.
Key Themes:
- Freedom and Righteousness: The difference between law and faith, and the affirmation of freedom through faith.
- Opposition to False Teachings: Criticism of false teachings and the influence of false teachers.
- True Life and Spiritual Fruits: Description of the nature of true Christian life and the fruits of the Holy Spirit.
Major Sections:
- Paul’s Defense and Doctrine of Salvation (Chapters 1-2): Defence of Paul’s apostolic authority and explanation of the doctrine of salvation.
- Warning Against False Teachers (Chapters 3-4): Difference between law and faith and confirmation of freedom through faith.
- Guidance for Spiritual Life (Chapters 5-6): Characteristics of true Christian life, fruits of the Spirit, and rules for personal conduct.
Structure:
- Chapters 1-2: Paul’s defence, his apostolic authority, and the doctrine of salvation.
- Chapters 3-4: Difference between law and faith, and freedom through faith.
- Chapters 5-6: Guidance for spiritual life, fruits of the Spirit, and rules for personal conduct.
Characteristics:
- Freedom and Righteousness: Clear description of freedom through faith and the limits of the law.
- Opposition to False Teachings: Rejection of false teachings and affirmation of true doctrine.
- Spiritual Fruits: Characteristics of the fruits of the Holy Spirit and true Christian life.
