Theme - The background and occasion for this Epistle can be traced quite readily. The churches mentioned were established by Paul and Barnabas on the first missionary tour, and Paul visited them again on the second missionary journey accompanied by Silas. Believing that the churches were well established in the faith, Paul and his companions entered larger fields of missionary service, and no return visit was made over a long period of years. During this protracted absence, Judaizing teachers from Palestine came into Southern Galatia and not only deflected the churches from the true faith of the gospel, but violently attacked the apostleship and ministry of Paul. Paul then wrote this impassioned and indignant letter of protest against the heresies and heretics troubling the churches of Galatia.

Outline - A simple outline of the purpose and plan of the Epistle sets forth also a comprehensive analysis: I. Paul Vindicates Himself and His Gospel (1:1-2:21) II. The Defence of the Doctrine of Justification by Faith (3-4) III. Application of the Doctrine of Justification by Faith to Christian Conduct (5:1-6:10) IV. Warnings against Judaizers and Conclusion (6:11-18)