Paul’s letter to the Galatians contrasts greatly with his letter to the Philippians. Galatians addresses a time when the early Christian movement was struggling with its identity and mission. Paul is angry and direct in his advice. His passionate effort to solve the problems the Galatians are facing is quite evident.
Philippians presents a very different Paul. It is easy to understand how the first European church, comprised of many gentiles, would also suffer identity problems. This letter finds Paul in prison, but his message is overwhelmingly concerned with his joy that the Philippians continue to follow his teaching. He promises them that such faithfulness will, indeed, lead them to the peace of God.
