But God forbid that i should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me and I to the world.15) for in Christ Jesus, neither circumcision not uncircumcision avails anything, but a new creation. (16) And as many as walk, according to this rule, peace and mercy, be upon them, and upon the Israel of God. (17) From now on let no one trouble me, for I bear in my body, the marks of the Lord Jesus. (18) Brethren, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, be with your spirit. Amen

The letter to the Galations was written by the apostle Paul. Paul received a report that the church he had planted in Galatia had fallen into error. Groups of Judiazers – those who make a living under the Mosaic Law – had gained an influence in the Galation church in advance of the Council of Jerusalem. A letter was sent from that Council that speaks wisdom and clarity into the first real controversy that plagued the church in the early years and it was decided that circumcision was not necessary. The relationship between Jews and Christian Gentiles was preached as unity in Christ.

Paul peaches the gospel of grace to them and justification comes from people by faith in Jesus Christ, not by works under the law.Even today we must walk a fine line – not to fall into legalism – but we cannot live as if anything goes. THe Christian commitment is to Christ based on the free gift of grace through faith in Christ and that results in the life of walking in the Spirit. Circumcision or uncircumcision are contrary matters. Paul denies either of them do any good. In both the natural man receives not the things of the Spirit of God. Paul felt he was talking about two different gospels, not two different Interpretations of the same gospel. In one gospel man stands before God on the basis of human merit, in the other he stands before God recognizing he can do nothing to satisfy God. So there is nothing under the sun that can make us righteous before God – and a new creature – except by Christ Jesus. We cannot be a new creature by good works but by Christ alone.

Paul felt he should not glory except in the cross. Circumcision is not relevant. This epistle is of rhe contrast between faith and the law. Our salvation is through Jesus Christ and is always and only through the Lord.