Bible Study: Galatians 1- Paul’s Defense of the Gospel and His Divine Authority

Road to Damascus

Welcome back to our Bible Study of Galatians! My name is Ryan and I am a Bible Nerd! Today, I want to share some reflections on Galatians chapter 1. As we continue our journey through this powerful letter from Paul, it’s important to understand the foundation of what he’s defending: the truth of the gospel and his divine calling as an apostle.

Setting the Stage: Paul’s Introduction

Right from the opening, Paul establishes his authority—not from human sources, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father who raised Him from the dead. His greeting is more than polite words; it’s a declaration of divine authority. He says, “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins, to rescue us from this present evil age.” This isn’t just a typical greeting—it’s an affirmation of what Christ accomplished for us and the central focus of the gospel.

Astonishment at Turning Away

In verses 6-7, Paul expresses deep astonishment, even shock, that the Galatians are so quickly turning away from the true gospel to “another gospel,” which isn’t really the gospel at all. The word “astonished” here is powerful—similar to how Jesus marveled at great faith or when He calmed the wind and waves. Paul’s words convey a sense of urgency; this isn’t minor disagreement but a serious deviation that threatens their salvation.

Guarding the Truth

Paul warns that anyone—even an angel from heaven—who preaches a gospel contrary to what he originally proclaimed should be “accursed.” That’s a profound and weighty statement. It reminds us to be vigilant about doctrines that distort or add to the true message of Jesus Christ. The gospel is simple yet profound: salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus alone.

Paul’s Personal Testimony: Divine Revelation

Verses 11-24 are among the most compelling parts of this chapter. Paul boldly states that his gospel didn’t come from human sources but was revealed directly by Jesus Christ. His past as a zealous Jewish persecutor makes his witness all the more remarkable. Remember, Paul was there when Stephen was martyred, and he approved of it. He was a Pharisee, deeply committed to the law, yet he encountered Jesus on the road to Damascus—a defining moment in history.

He recounts how God set him apart from his mother’s womb and revealed His Son to him so that he could preach among the Gentiles. Paul’s conversion demonstrates that true authority comes from divine revelation, not human persuasion. His zealousness for God’s law was transformed into passionate service for the gospel of grace.

Reflections for Our Lives

What does all this mean for us today?

• We must guard against teachings that distort the gospel.

• Our faith is rooted in divine authority, not human tradition or effort.

• Genuine salvation is by grace—nothing added, nothing taken away.

• Our own lives are shaped by the truth of Christ’s finished work on the cross.

Closing Thoughts

Galatians chapter 1 is a passionate reminder that the gospel we believe and preach is under attack from many angles—within churches, societies, and even within ourselves. We’re called to hold fast to the truth, to discern what is truly from God, and to live confidently in the grace of Jesus Christ.

Next time, we’ll move into chapter 2, where Paul recounts his interactions with other apostles and further defends the gospel’s integrity. I encourage you to read Galatians 1 for your self and reflect on Paul’s testimony. Consider where you might need to renew your focus on the core message of grace through faith.

Thank you for being part of this journey. May God strengthen you to stand firm in His truth, and may His peace fill your heart today.

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