Galatians can be summarized as “Jesus Plus Nothing = Everything.” (I did not come up with that, but it succinctly shares the essence of the book.)

Paul was writing to a group of churches in an area now known as Turkey. Jesus had ascended around 25 years prior, so His earthly presence was still part of the contemporary history, rather like many of us remembering Ronald Reagan.

In the first chapter, we see the following major points:

Paul’s authority: Paul established himself as an authority the Galatians could listen to. He had already ministered to them and then left for other missionary work. He reminded them that he had directly encountered the Lord, and that major life change had happened.

Paul’s astonishment: Early in the book (Paul wastes no time) he tells the Galatians how shocked he is that they are already turning from the simple truth of believing in Christ alone for salvation. A group of false teachers known as Judaizers had infiltrated and were teaching that in addition to belief in Jesus, certain rituals (such as circumcision) were still required for salvation. Paul is adamant that this is not true. Salvation is by faith in Jesus alone…no other action, ritual, practice or performance is required. Our good works as Christians come out of appreciation, not obligation.

Paul’s approval: Paul actually did not seek the approval of man (see verse 10.) He instead sought the approval of God. In our group, we discussed what happens when we don’t get credit for something we have done. We saw a beautiful descriptor in verse 24: “And they praised God because of me.” Our focus as believers should be less and less on ourselves.

Wouldn’t you want that to be the thing that people say about you at the end of your life?