Letters to the Romans and Galatians

Who wrote the Letters to the Romans and to the Galatians? Why were these letters composed? What were the major arguments in early Christian communities? How does lectio divina move us to pray with Scripture?


Author Fr.  Anderson writes that, “each of [Paul’s letters] addresses particular issues and arguments within the community to whom he was writing.” Although he never preached in Rome  (he converted many in Galatia), his message was similar in both letters.


The primary issue Paul addresses is how to assimilate the Old and New covenants. The communities, a mixture of Jews and Gentiles, were beginning to live their Christian faith together. As their traditions and newfound teachings would clash, arguments would arise.


Paul’s letters were written with love and concern for the communities he sent them to. And as conflicts would arise, his letters helped these communities work lovingly through divisions.