What was Galatians?

The term Galatians refers to the people of Galatia, a region in the central part of Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). The name originates from the Greek term “Γαλάτης” (Galatēs), meaning “a Gaul” or “a Galatian.” The Galatians were originally Celtic tribes who migrated into Asia Minor in the 3rd century B.C. and settled in the region that came to bear their name.

In 1 Corinthians 16:1, Paul writes, “Now about the collection for the Lord’s people: Do what I told the Galatian churches to do.” This reference is not to an individual, but to the churches in Galatia—a group of early Christian congregations to whom Paul had ministered and written (cf. the Epistle to the Galatians). The Galatians were among the Gentile believers in the early church, and Paul’s interaction with them holds deep theological importance in the New Testament narrative.

Biblical References and Cross-References

• 1 Corinthians 16:1 – Paul references the instruction given to the Galatian churches regarding the collection for the saints.
• Galatians 1:1-2 – Paul addresses the churches of Galatia directly in his epistle.
• Acts 16:6; 18:23 – Mentions Paul’s missionary journeys through Galatia.
• Romans 15:26 – Refers to the collection for the poor among the saints in Jerusalem, tying into the broader effort Paul referenced in 1 Corinthians 16:1.

What Happened in the Bible?

The Galatian churches were part of Paul’s missionary focus during his journeys. Paul visited the region of Galatia multiple times (Acts 16:6; 18:23) and established churches there. In 1 Corinthians 16:1, Paul brings up the collection for the saints, which was an offering being gathered by Gentile churches to support impoverished Jewish believers in Jerusalem. He had previously given similar instructions to the churches in Galatia, showing their active participation in the larger body of Christ.

In Paul’s letter to the Galatians, he addresses serious theological concerns. False teachers had infiltrated the Galatian churches, attempting to impose Jewish ceremonial law, especially circumcision, on Gentile Christians. Paul passionately defends the gospel of justification by faith alone in Christ alone, apart from the works of the law (Galatians 2:16; 3:11).

Thus, “Galatian” in 1 Corinthians 16 is a reminder of a real body of believers who were part of the early Christian movement and participants in gospel-centered generosity and cooperation across ethnic and regional boundaries.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

The Galatians remind us that Christians, regardless of background, are called to unity in the gospel and active participation in the mission of the church. Their example in contributing to the needs of others reflects how believers are to show tangible love and support for the body of Christ.

Their struggles with false teaching also serve as a sober warning: it is possible for even vibrant churches to be swayed by distortions of the gospel. Paul’s correction to the Galatians reminds us to remain grounded in Scripture, holding fast to salvation by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9).

How Their Story Points to Jesus and the Gospel

The Galatian believers were Gentiles who had been brought into the family of God through faith in Jesus Christ. Paul’s rebuke of the legalism they encountered points us directly to the sufficiency of Christ’s atoning work on the cross. His passionate defense of the gospel shows that Jesus is the only way to be made right with God—no works can add to His finished work (Galatians 2:21).

Moreover, the generosity of the Galatians in the collection for Jerusalem points to a gospel-centered unity that breaks down ethnic, cultural, and historical barriers. In Christ, “there is neither Jew nor Gentile” (Galatians 3:28). Their story echoes the call for all believers to live sacrificially and walk in the Spirit.

Broader Biblical Themes

Justification by Faith

The Galatians were deeply involved in a controversy that prompted Paul to clarify the doctrine of justification by faith, a central tenet of the gospel (Romans 5:1; Galatians 3:24).

Church Unity and Generosity

The collection mentioned in 1 Corinthians 16:1 reveals the early church’s efforts to care for one another beyond ethnic and geographic boundaries (2 Corinthians 8-9; Acts 11:29-30).

Spiritual Warfare Against False Doctrine

Paul’s letter to the Galatians showcases the need for discernment and doctrinal purity, a recurring theme throughout the New Testament (2 Timothy 4:3-4; Titus 1:9).

Reflection Questions

1. What can we learn from the Galatians’ participation in the offering for Jerusalem about Christian generosity and unity?
2. How does Paul’s correction of the Galatians help us identify and resist legalism today?
3. Are there ways in which you may be tempted to “add” to the gospel through works or traditions?
4. How can we as modern believers show solidarity and support for Christians in need, following the example of the Galatian churches?
5. In what ways does the story of the Galatians deepen your appreciation for the gospel of grace through Jesus Christ?

The Galatians, while not a single character, embody the experience of early Gentile believers: saved by grace, called to live by the Spirit, and part of God’s global family through Christ. Their legacy lives on in the truths that shape our faith and our mission today.