Galatian Dialectical Journal

Step One: Paul is the writer of the book of Galatians. (Gal. 1:1) Paul refers to the audience as those in Galatia. (Gal 1:2) “Galicia was the region of central Asia Minor habituated by Celtic people.”1 “The theme of Galatians, like that of Romans is justification by faith.” 2 Paul wrote the letter because of false teachers who were undermining the NT doctrine of grace. The paragraph before, “Paul warns them that the best attitude against false teachers is not to strive with one another.” 3 The main paragraph (v.15-18) Paul tells them to be led by the Spirit. He concludes, “With a caution against pride and envy.”4(v.19-24) Galatians 5:16-18 still applies to us today. Every since creation, it has been a constant battle for mankind, to live under the law or to be led by the spirit.
The biggest difference is found in the audience. Paul was speaking to Jews and Gentiles. Their fight was over being under the law or grace. The battle today may not be between Jew and Gentiles, but it does remain between believers and denominations. Many churches and leaders believe that God requires us to keep the law and or commandments in order to be saved.
Step Three: The theological principal found in Galatians 5:16-18 is to be led by the Spirit. Paul tells us that the Spirit and flesh are in a constant battle. That you may not do what you may want to do. (v.17) Our sinful nature wants to do evil, and it goes against what the Spirit wants. Everyone is born with a sinful nature, no one is exempt; but once a believer is sealed with the Holy Spirit, you then should be led by the Spirit. No longer can you live to gratify the desires of the flesh the way you used to. You will strive to live a life that will be pleasing to