Galatians CommentaryThe Bible Says Commentary on Galatians

The Book of Galatians was written by the Apostle Paul, traditionally dated to sometime between AD 48-55. Addressed to the churches in the region of Galatia, which was located in what is now central Turkey, the letter confronts confusion caused by certain teachers who claimed Gentile believers needed to adopt Jewish customs and practice the Law of Moses to be fully Christian. Paul, who had evangelized the area, sought to reaffirm that salvation is found through faith in Jesus Christ alone and not by legalistic adherence to the law.

In Galatians, Paul strongly defends his apostleship and message, explaining how he received his gospel directly through a revelation of Jesus. He recounts his interactions with other early church leaders, pointing out that they agreed Gentile Christians need not become subject to circumcision or Jewish food laws. Paul’s aim was to protect the believers in Galatia from placing their confidence in rituals or traditions for salvation, emphasizing instead the work of the Holy Spirit and faith in Christ. He reminds them, “For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:26).

Throughout the letter, Paul contrasts life in the flesh with life in the Spirit, urging believers to stand in the liberty Christ has granted them: “It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm” (Galatians 5:1). He calls them to bear one another’s burdens, to love one another, and to reject any belief that would undermine the sufficiency of Christ’s sacrifice. At the heart of Galatians lies the message that righteousness is credited to those who trust in Jesus Christ, demonstrating God’s grace to Jew and Gentile alike.