What is the theme of chapter 2 in the Book of Galatians?

Answer 1

Paul is defending the Gospel message to the Galatians. In particular, he tells them that the only way a man can be 'justified' or made right to God, is through His gift of Grace (Greek 'charis:' means freely shown favor, a gift).

Galatians 2:16New King James Version (NKJV)

16 knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law; for by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified.

Some Christians will teach that salvation may come via works which is not supported by the Scripture. Many others teach that the Law of God is no longer in effect as we are now under His Grace solely. This is a misunderstanding of what the Scripture says.

The Law and Grace are inseparable. Without the Law, there would be no need for Grace as sin would be undefined, and there would be no forgiveness for sin or breaking God's law. Therefore His gift of Grace would be unavailable to us - each of whom is a sinner.

Remember, Jesus died to take on the sins of all mankind - He tasting death or the penalty of sin for everyone of us:

1 Corinthians 15:3New King James Version (NKJV)

3 For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures,

Hebrews 2:9New King James Version (NKJV)

9 But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels, for the suffering of death crowned with glory and honor, that He, by the grace of God, might taste death for everyone.

Paul is telling the Galatians here and in his other writings that the Law and Grace are totally inseparable. God's Law is needed to define sin for us and the consequences thereof. Grace is necessary so we sinners can be forgiven and led to obedience to God and His perfect Law through the power of His Holy Spirit, via the assistance of Jesus Christ, our only Savior and High Priest.

Romans 3:31New King James Version (NKJV)

31 Do we then make void the law through faith? Certainly not! On the contrary, we establish the law.