Paul uses strong language to condemn anything that takes away from the power of the gospel which comes from faith in the cross of Jesus Christ alone. He uses the imagery of running a race and baking bread to make his points.

Paul greets the churches in Galatia, highlighting his calling and authority. He immediately starts to address the problem that has arisen - other Jewish teachers have undermined the gospel and taught ‘another gospel’.

Writing to those who knew the Law of Moses, Paul uses the example of marriage to demonstrate the breaking of the law that binds a woman to a man when the man dies. The same radical change is made for Christians who are in a new relationship with God.

The importance of the Jews is explained despite having been unfaithful to god and rejecting the Messiah. The Law of Moses and circumcision are not enough to save the Jews. They need the gospel, too. Double standards are condemned.

Paul highlights the value of the Old Testament, tracing the story of salvation from the covenant promise given to Abraham. Paul concludes his argument that all people need the gospel - Jew and Gentile alike.

Paul explains how Abraham is an example of faith for every believer, Jew or Gentile. Justification is by faith is not just a beginning but a continuing process that goes on through life. Circumcision is a symbol - it does not save.

Paul continues to develop his explanation of 'justification by faith alone. he recounts the story of Isaac and the simple trust Abraham showed through all the difficulties and circumstances he faced.

Following a disagreement between Paul and Barnabas, they separated and Paul took Silas on his journey. The Holy Spirit hinders his progress in Bithynia and Paul has a vision of a man from Macedonia calling him to go there - to Europe.

An issue arose about the need for Gentiles to become Jews as part of being Christians , including the act of male circumcision. The Council of Jerusalem was convened and it was agreed that this was not right. guidance was given to the gentile believers to help them separate themselves from pagan rites.

Bethlehem is near Jerusalem and the Temple where Jesus is circumcised which was a sign of God's covenant relationship with the Jews. Simeon and Anna meet them and they prophesy. Circumcision and baptism are compared.