The Epistle's Contribution to the Church's Understanding and Practice

Many believe that Galatians' primary contribution to the Church is its treatment of justification by faith. While the epistle does interact with this doctrine, it does so with a perspective and intent that are often missed by its readers. Paul wasn't addressing the issue of how sinners obtain the righteousness they need to be saved; rather his focus was on the new creation inaugurated by Jesus' death and resurrection and what that means for the Church's faith and practice.