Chapter Summary

The Gospel Paul preached, a revelation not tradition.

Discussion Questions for Galatians, Chapter 1

1. Why is it important that Paul identified the origin of his Apostleship? How would you define an Apostle from scripture? Do we have apostles today? Why or why not?
2. What role does discernment play in Paul's accusation that the Galatians have forsaken the true Gospel? How do you keep from going astray from the Truth?
3. What specifically did the Galatians do wrong? Why do you think Paul takes their deviation from the Truth so seriously? What impact does this charge have on your own life today?
4. Why do you think Paul did not go to Jerusalem to meet with the other apostles after he was converted? What does this say about his testimony? In what ways might this challenge your perception of Paul's apostolic authority?
5. Paul states that the Gospel did not come from "human thought" (HCSB)? In what ways does the Gospel of Jesus differentiate from the other major religions? How does the supernatural nature of the Gospel make it more trustworthy?
6. It seems as if Paul is trying to defend his authority as an apostle throughout this chapter, even going so far as to say "I am not lying" (HCSB). What is the significance of this in light of his confrontation with the Galatians? What purpose does it serve for Paul to defend his identity as an apostle?
7. How important are the geographic locations and timeline that Paul produces for the Galatians? Does this help confirm his ministry? Why do you think Paul had to so fiercely defend the authenticity of his ministry to the Galatians specifically?
8. What are the elements of Paul's conversion and past life in this chapter? Can you relate? How would you describe your own conversion experience and the change God brought to your life? How important is your testimony in leading others to Christ?
9. What role did persecution play in the life of Paul before his conversion? What role did persecution play in his life after he became a believer? What role, if any, does persecution play in your life and witness today?
10. How do you know when someone is teaching or preaching a false Gospel? What metrics would you use to determine something is false? How can you use Scripture to verify if a teaching is true or not?

Key Words/Phrase

Paul's gospel, v. 7.

Characters

God, Christ, Paul, Peter, James.

Strong Verse(s)

4, 8.