Paul introduces the reality of spiritual warfare that every Christian faces together with the resources that God provides to fight against the enemy. Roman soldiers are guarding him and he uses their armour to explain these resources.

Paul explains the serious situation of those who do not believe - they are dead, separated from God. He balances this with the good news of grace shown by Jesus' death on the cross. Faith is all that is required.

Paul ends his letter to the Galatians by writing in his own handwriting. He confirms that circumcision is not the important factor of a Christian life - the Holy Spirit is. He carries scars on his body for the sake of the gospel and is passionate about the churches in Galatia.

Paul continues to explain that the covenant made with Abraham is the foundation of faith whereas the Law of Moses has become obsolete. He explains the importance of the Law to highlight sin that separates us from God. Now all are equal in God’s sight if they have faith in Jesus.

Peter comes to visit the church in Antioch and then surprisingly stops eating meals with Gentiles, as if he is still trying to obey the Old Testament Jewish food laws which kept the Jews separate from the Gentiles. Paul challenges Peter to change his behaviour because the law of Moses is no longer in operation and the Gospel unites Jews and Gentiles

Paul challenges the Galatians to remember the gospel of justification by faith in Jesus that he preached to them. He reminds them of their forefather Abraham who came before Moses and had faith

In the light of God’s mercy shown to Jews and Gentiles, we should respond by living our lives wholly committed to God. our behaviour and thinking will change.

Paul develops his teaching about the power of sin and explains how sin came into the world through Adam and Eve. Only Jesus' sacrifice can break the power of sin. The Law of Moses increased the sense of what sin is.

Paul uses the imagery of slavery to show what was the old life but compares it to the freedom of the new life. We are obligated to please God in response to God’s generous love towards us. We choose to follow God.

Sin has not only affected human beings, Paul explains that the whole of creation is also struggling because of sin. Although we are suffering now, we have a wondeful hope for the future. The Holy Spirit strengthens us now and helps us to pray.