Introduction:
In this study of the letter to the Galatians, we will be using passages of the Bible as the introduction for each lesson. For readability and convenience, we will be using the World English Bible. “The World English Bible (WEB) is a Public Domain (no copyright) Modern English translation of the Holy Bible. The World English Bible is based on the American Standard Version of the Holy Bible first published in 1901, the Biblia Hebraica Stutgartensa Old Testament, and the Greek Majority Text New Testament.”✡
The region of Galatia was named as such after it was invaded in the third century B.C. by a group from Gaul (modern France). It was located in Asia Minor. This letter was written to the churches in that area.
There are differing theories on when the letter was written and to exactly which churches. However, it was most likely written between A.D. 48-50. Paul gives some historical markers in his letter, such as Galatians 1:18 where he states that he went to Jerusalem three years after he returned to Damascus following his time in Arabia. Also, in Galatians 2:1 he states that after 14 years working in the mission field, he returned to Jerusalem to settle the matter of legalism that was spreading through the Gentile church. Thus, we know this letter was written some 15 years after his conversion.
This letter was written to the Galatian churches to clarify the freedom they have through the grace of God, that their salvation is not based on keeping the law of Moses. To do this he first establishes his right to have an opinion on the matter, then he gives a historical account of his conversion and the official position made by the Jerusalem Council, which is found in Acts 15. Drawing on all of his education as an up-and-coming Pharisee, he expertly crafts his argument against legalism and defends the gospel of salvation by faith alone. He then goes on to teach how this applies to our daily lives.
It is strongly recommended that, prior to beginning this study, the following passages from the book of the Acts of the Apostles be reviewed: Acts 8:1-3; 9:1-31; 10:1-11:30; 13:1-16:6a. These passages will help to lay a historical foundation for the events and teachings discussed in this letter.
We pray that you are abundantly blessed as you seek Him through His word.
Unless otherwise noted, Scripture quotations are taken from The World English Bible, Public Domain. That means that it is not copyrighted. However, “World English Bible” is a Trademark.
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CLICK ON THE LESSONS BELOW:
Lesson 1 – Commission, Greeting, and Gospel
Lesson 2 – Paul’s Calling and a Bit of History
Lesson 3 – Verified by the Brethren
Lesson 4 – Practice What We Preach
Lesson 5 – Proven by Your Experience
Lesson 6 – The Promise to Abraham
Lesson 7 – The Heir and the Bondservant
Lesson 8 – Allegory of the Two Sons
Lesson 9 – You Were Running Well!
Lesson 10 – Walk by the Spirit
Lesson 11 – The Law of Christ
Lesson 12 – Peace and Mercy Be on Them
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✡ https://worldenglish.bible/
Additional Sources:
Rose Book of Bible Charts, Maps, and Time Lines. (2015). Torrance, California: Rose Publishing. p 14
Blue Letter Bible. Web. 16 May, 2022. <https://www.blueletterbible.org/study/paul/timeline.cfm>
Blue Letter Bible. Web. 16 May, 2022. <https://www.blueletterbible.org/Comm/macarthur_john/bible-introductions/galatians-intro.cfm>
Blue Letter Bible. Web. 16 May, 2022. <https://www.blueletterbible.org/comm/mcgee_j_vernon/notes-outlines/galatians/galatians-notes.cfm>
All scripture quotations are taken from The World English Bible, Public Domain. That means that it is not copyrighted. However, “World English Bible” is a Trademark.
The General Council Churches of God, (Seventh Day) does not endorse any particular translation of the Bible.