Introduction to the Book of Galatians (Part 1)

Why study the Book of Galatians?

• To get to know the apostle Paul (who wrote almost half of the books of the New Testament.
• To see some of the struggles faced by the early church during this transitional period from the Law to the gospel.
• To see from church history how important controversies were resolved.
• To clearly understand the correct theology of justification by faith alone.

Where is Galatia?

When was the gospel preached in Galatia?

• Paul's first missionary journey took him to the region of southern Galatia.
• Preaching in Antioch of Pisidia (Acts )
• Preaching in Iconium (Acts )
• Preaching in the region of Lyconium: Lystra and Derbe (Acts )

Who were these believers and what was their background?

• Paul preached in Jewish synagogues to an audience of Jews, proselytes, and "God fearers"
  (Acts , , ; and ).
• Paul preached to an entire whole city. He was rejected by the Jews and turned to the Gentiles
  (Acts , ).
• Paul preached to pagan Gentiles who worshipped false gods using elaborate rituals
  (Acts ).