Galatians – You are a New Creation

Galatia, a central province in Asia Minor under Roman rule, was visited by Paul during each of his missionary journeys to share the news of Jesus. Initially, the Galatians warmly embraced Paul and his gospel. However, individuals Paul refers to as agitators later questioned his authority and the essence of his teachings. In response, Paul wrote a letter to defend his apostolic legitimacy and reiterate the foundational truth that faith in the Messiah is what integrates individuals into God’s renewed community.

Paul distinguishes his gospel’s divine origin right at the beginning of his letter, clarifying that it was revealed to him directly by Jesus Christ, not received from other apostles.

Central to his discourse is the assertion that Gentile converts to Christianity need not adhere to the Jewish law of circumcision. Paul argues that membership in the promised global family of Abraham is secured through faith in Christ Jesus, not adherence to the Torah. This, he states, has been the trajectory of the biblical narrative all along.

Addressing concerns that abandoning Torah observance might lead to disorder, Paul outlines the characteristics of a life fueled by the Spirit in a community of Christ’s followers. He wraps up his letter by reinforcing its key message: The ritual of circumcision holds no value; rather, being part of the new creation is what truly matters.