In this first part of Galatians, Paul is defending both his ministry and his message from legalistic preachers who are trying to add to the gospel message. The area of dispute is whether faith in Jesus is enough, or whether we have to also do something from our side to receive God’s salvation. They tried to discredit Paul, and they exerted considerable pressure so that even Peter started to act differently towards Gentile believers.

But Paul states his case clearly and compellingly. It was faith in Jesus that transformed Paul’s life, even though he had been steeped in the law his whole life. He was taught the gospel by Jesus, but his message was attested by the other apostles. When the legalistic preachers gained influence in the church, Paul opposed them directly and vocally, calling everyone back to the original and pure gospel message – faith in Jesus and not the works of the law.