Galatians 2:20
Overview
Galatians is Paul's passionate defense of the gospel of grace against those who taught that Gentile Christians must follow the Mosaic law to be saved. Paul argues forcefully that justification comes by faith in Christ alone, not by works of the law, and that Christian freedom must be exercised through love and the power of the Holy Spirit.
Historical Context
Paul wrote to the churches in Galatia (central modern Turkey) to counter Judaizers who insisted that Gentile converts must be circumcised and obey the Mosaic law. This letter may be the earliest of Paul's epistles and addresses the fundamental question of how a person is made right with God.
Book Outline
Paul's Authority and Gospel
Chapters 1-2
Justification by Faith
Chapters 3-4
Christian Freedom and the Spirit
Chapters 5-6
Key Themes
Key Verses
Galatians 2:20
Galatians 3:28
Galatians 5:1
Galatians 5:22-23
Galatians 6:9
How to Study Galatians
Study Tips
- Read through the entire book to understand the overall narrative flow and purpose.
- Pay attention to the historical and cultural context of when it was written.
- Look for repeated words, phrases, and themes — these highlight the author's key messages.
- Cross-reference key verses with related passages throughout Scripture.
- Discuss what you learn with your family using the questions below.
For a deeper study approach, see our guide on How to Study the Bible.
Family Discussion & Activity
Discussion Questions
- ? What does it mean to be free in Christ?
- ? What are the fruit of the Spirit and how can we grow them in our lives?
- ? Why is it important that salvation is by grace through faith, not by our own works?
Family Activity
Read the first chapter of Galatians together as a family this week. Each person can share one thing that stood out to them and what they think it means for your family today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the fruit of the Spirit?
Galatians 5:22-23 lists nine qualities produced by the Holy Spirit in a believer's life: love, joy, peace, longsuffering (patience), gentleness, goodness, faith (faithfulness), meekness, and temperance (self-control). These character traits are the natural result of walking in step with the Spirit.
What were the Judaizers teaching?
The Judaizers were Jewish Christians who taught that Gentile believers must be circumcised and follow the Mosaic law in order to be truly saved. Paul vehemently opposed this teaching as a distortion of the gospel, arguing that adding any requirement to faith in Christ for salvation undermines grace.
What does Galatians 2:20 mean?
"I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me." Paul declares that his old self has died with Christ, and his new life is lived by faith in Christ who now lives within him.
Daily Family Devotional
Start each morning with scripture, reflection, and family discussion questions delivered to your inbox.
Free, delivered daily. Unsubscribe anytime.