The Origin and Persistence of Evil in Galatians

In this study, Tyler A. Stewart investigates narrative explanations for evil in Galatians set in the context of Second Temple Judaism and early Christianity. Scholarship has typically interpreted Paul’s view of evil based on Adam’s fall or a mere reflex of Christology. In contrast, the author argues that in Galatians Paul’s view of evil is based on the narrative of rebellious angels found in the Book of Watchers. Additionally, he claims that Paul’s use of Enochic tradition is consistent with Second Temple Jewish literature and finds support in early Christian reception of Galatians.