In Galatians Paul gets down to the central question of Christianity – How are we made right with God – by what we believe or by what we do? Galatians was written for a group of new believers at churches Paul planted. They were very sincere in their desire to please God, but they were easily led astray. Paul wanted to get them back on track as quickly as possible. The apostle doesn't pull any punches. The tone is occasionally harsh but always passionate. After all, someone is messing with his (spiritual) kids and he takes it personally.
Some ways to study Galatians
Follow the key theme – justification. What does it mean? How does it happen? What does the Law have to do with it? And the $64,000 question, are believers required to keep the Mosaic law (or any other set of rules)?
The Apostle Paul – In chapters 1-2 we get a good deal of information about Paul. In later chapters, his concerns for the church shows through. What biographical things do you learn about Paul? Look at his account of the Jerusalem council in ch. 2. What was the major issue at that meeting? How was it resolved? How did that apply to the Galatians?
Justification by Law vs. Justification by Faith – How does Paul make his case? Keep a list of what he says about the Law. What does it do? What does the illustration about Isaac and Ishmael mean in chapter 4. Why is faith better (esp. chapter 5)?
Practical applications – What do you learn about living a Christian life, especially about living with each other (esp. chapter 6)?
The bottom line-
I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. Galatians 2:20
