O Evangelho da liberdade: uma análise de Gálatas 5,1-6

Abstract

This dissertation proposes an analysis of Pauline‟s theology, related mainly to the theme of Christian freedom, developed by the Apostle, in a letter sent to the Galatians. The first chapter is an approach of the Galatians people in this region and the historical context of the Roman period, mainly in Asia Minor and Galatia in the first century of our era. Reflects relevant aspects of social, political, economic and religious reality, the social cataloging that was established at that time, especially related to the categories of free, freed and slaves people. This classification determined people‟s value and social status. It demands realize the influence of cultures, especially the Greek one, which directed and determined people's behavior and the strategies that Romans used to impose the ideology of empire. Chapter II presents a study on the pericope of Gal from 5.1 to 6, reporting a few steps of biblical exegesis in order to understand the scope of Pauline‟s message of freedom. We reflect on several aspects from the letter to the Galatians and focus mainly on the pericope, by analyzing the main terms used and their relationship to the theme of freedom, and grace that comes through faith in Christ and not by works of Law. The last chapter deals with the Christian freedom. Part of the phenomenon of freedom, is placed in God‟s plan, as a condition for human fulfillment. We consider this issue from Paul's thought, developing a sense of freedom and its foundation in Jesus Christ. Freedom is human vocation by excellence. It comes from God through Christ and becomes reality in human beings, as a gradual and permanent process. It is a gift that must be cultivated and improved. Living free in such way is to live according to the Spirit, especially in the experience of love. As God‟s children and part of His nature, our aim is freedom from all forms of detentions.