January 31, 2026
Galatians Study — False Brethren, the True Gospel, and the Two Covenants
In this continuation of our study through the book of Galatians, we begin with a brief overview of the historical and spiritual background of the epistle. Particular attention is given to the rise of the Judaizers, whom Paul describes as “false brethren”, and the influence they exerted.
We examine Paul’s uncompromising defense of the gospel, including his striking declaration that even an angel from heaven would be disqualified if they preached any message contrary to the gospel that had been entrusted to him. This sets the tone for understanding why Galatians is one of the strongest defenses of gospel purity found in Scripture.
The second half of the study turns to Paul’s allegory of the two covenants, illustrated through Hagar and Sarah, and their respective sons. We explore how Paul contrasts:
Mount Sinai and the earthly Jerusalem, associated with bondage and reliance on law,
With the heavenly Jerusalem, whose children are born by promise and live by faith.
This discussion helps clarify the difference between outward religious privilege and true spiritual inheritance, showing that the heart of the gospel is not law-centered confidence, but faith in Christ and participation in the promises of God.
Key Passages:
Galatians 1–4 | Genesis 16–21 | Isaiah 54 | Hebrews 12
