Galatians Bible Argument Essay -- Religion, Bible, Paul

I. Introduction 1:1-9 In this opening chapter, Paul begins with a formal introduction of himself. He asserts the source from whom he obtained his apostolic call and ministry from- the risen Christ and â€Å"God the Father† (v.1). He follows with a stern rebuke of the Galatian Christians who have allowed themselves to be duped into to embracing the heretical teachings promulgated by the Judaizers. A. Salutation 1:1-5 Paul establishes his credentials forthrightly and formally. This was crucial in terms of validating the ensuing message of the epistle. His readership, as well as his critics (the Judaizers), needed to be reminded of his apostolic authority as he attacked the heresy that had taken foothold in the Galatian Christian community. Denunciation 1:6-10 For Paul, the subversive teaching of the Judaizers warranted the pronouncement of a curse (i.e., anathema). The fact that Paul repeats the â€Å"anathema† in v.9 speaks to the seriousness of the offense. Clearly, this was a situation that required more than a mere reprimand. Thus, the apostle is not concerned with being socially lauded, esteemed, etc. The transgression was egregious and the consequences should be as well. II. Personal: Paul’s Credentials 1:11-2-2:21 Paul reasserts the authenticity and authority of his apostleship in this section. He does so by describing the unique manner by which he was called to into the Lord’s service (cf. Acts 9:1- 18). Years subsequent to the apostle’s special call (i.e., 3 and 14 years, respectively), he met some of the other apostles (i.e., Peter, James). It was crucial that Paul reassert and defend his divine appointment so that his message to the deceived Galatian believers would be regarded as legitimately apostolic and thus authorative. ... ...cerning the intent of the Law, sonship vs. slave status, the Law vs. liberty in Christ, and the practical manifestation of justification evidenced in the production of spiritual fruit as the believer â€Å"walks by the Spirit†. Perhaps the passage that best represents the message of this theologically robust epistle is Gal. 2:16a which reads, â€Å"nevertheless knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the Law but through faith in Christ Jesus†. This is the message that Paul asserts from his introductory comments in chapter one to his closing comments in chapter six. Moreover, Christians today will avoid the mistake of the Galatian Christians provided that we continue standing firm in the grace of our Lord Jesus. We must always be mindful of the fact that it is Jesus who is the author of our salvation (Heb 2:10)- the author and perfector of faith (Heb. 12:2).