An erroneous doctrine that promoted a Jewish-Christian hybrid had infiltrated the church in Galatia. There were some who were binding circumcision as a necessity for salvation. In writing to the church, Paul had to contend for the faith (cf. Jude 3) by defending his apostleship (cf. 1:6-2:21). Next he dealt more specifically with the issue.

He asked a series of rhetorical questions to prove that salvation is by grace through faith, not the keeping of the Law of Moses. By these questions he reminded the Galatians that:

• Salvation is accomplished through Jesus sacrifice on the cross (v. 1).
• The benefits, and revelation, of the Holy Spirit were received through the hearing of the gospel message (v. 2).
• Maturation as a Christian is only accomplished by continuing in the Spirit (v. 3).
• By accepting a different doctrine their suffering in the past was in vain (v. 4).
• The working of miracles, and supply of the Holy Spirit, is given by God through the hearing of the gospel (v. 5).

Paul emphasized the point that their salvation is by faith and not the perfect keeping of the Law. To further his point, Abraham is used as an example of being justified by faith, not works. Abraham was given the promise of the Seed before the Law was established so that justification would be by faith, thereby allowing Gentiles salvation through faith.