Galatians 3:19-22 is about the purpose of the law in revealing humanity’s need for salvation through faith in Jesus Christ rather than by strict obedience to the law.
19 Why then the law? It was added because of transgressions, until the offspring should come to whom the promise had been made, and it was put in place through angels by an intermediary.
20 Now an intermediary implies more than one, but God is one.
21 Is the law then contrary to the promises of God? Certainly not! For if a law had been given that could give life, then righteousness would indeed be by the law.
22 But the Scripture imprisoned everything under sin, so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe.
Setting the Scene for Galatians 3:19-22
In Galatians chapter 3, the apostle Paul is addressing the Galatian church, emphasizing the importance of faith in Christ over adherence to the law for salvation. As Paul speaks, the scene is set in a small gathering room within a humble house in Galatia. The room is dimly lit by oil lamps, casting a warm glow on the faces of those present.
Sitting around a wooden table are a group of believers from various backgrounds – Jews, Gentiles, men, and women. Among them are Lydia, a wealthy businesswoman who first heard the gospel from Paul in Philippi, and Titus, a Greek convert who has been a faithful companion in ministry. They have come together to study and discuss Paul’s letter, seeking to deepen their understanding of the gospel message.
As Paul’s words echo through the room, the tension between law and grace is palpable. The believers listen intently, their hearts stirred by the truth that salvation comes through faith in Christ alone. The flickering light dances on their faces, illuminating the unity they share in Christ despite their diverse backgrounds. In this moment, they are reminded that in Christ, there is no distinction between Jew or Greek, slave or free, male or female – all are one in Him.
What is Galatians 3:19-22 about?
This verse emphasizes the role of the law in our spiritual journey. It signifies that the primary function of the law is not necessarily to provide salvation but to point out our need for it. The law serves as a mirror that reflects our imperfections and our inability to live up to God’s standards on our own. It underscores the idea that we all fall short and require a Savior to bridge the gap between our sinful nature and God’s holiness.
Have you ever pondered why certain rules and regulations exist in our lives? Just like how traffic signs remind us of the rules of the road, the law outlined in the Bible reminds us of our inadequacy and dependency on God’s grace. It prompts us to recognize that we cannot achieve salvation through our actions alone but through faith in Jesus Christ. We can humbly accept the gift of grace and mercy that God offers us through His son by acknowledging our need for salvation. Reflect on this verse as you consider how it influences your perception of the law and your faith journey. How does understanding the purpose of the law in highlighting our need for salvation impact the way you approach your relationship with God? Take comfort in knowing that even in our shortcomings, God’s love and grace remain constant, offering us a pathway to redemption and eternal life through faith in Jesus.
Understanding what Galatians 3:19-22 really means
The Apostle Paul, in Galatians 3:19-22, delves into the profound relationship between the Law and God’s promise, shedding light on crucial themes such as the role of the Law, the promise of faith, and the unity of believers in Christ. “Why then was the law given at all?” This question prompts us to understand that the Law was not meant for salvation but to reveal our transgressions and highlight our desperate need for a Savior. As Romans 3:20 articulates, the Law makes us conscious of our sin, emphasizing that righteousness cannot be attained through works but through faith.
“It was added because of transgressions until the Seed to whom the promise referred had come.” Here, Paul elucidates that the Law served as a temporary measure until the fulfillment of the promise in Christ, the Seed mentioned in Genesis 22:18. The Law, given through angels and mediated by Moses, underscores its divine origin and the seriousness of its purpose, as Acts 7:53 points out. The Law’s temporary nature is juxtaposed with the eternal promise fulfilled through faith in Jesus Christ, as Romans 11:32 highlights the universality of sin and the necessity of faith for salvation.
The relevance of this passage today is profound, as it reminds us of our continual need for grace and directs us to Christ for true righteousness. In a world fixated on self-righteousness, Galatians 3:19-22 serves as a beacon, guiding us to understand that genuine righteousness is attained through faith in Jesus. An illustrative anecdote likens the Law to a burdensome backpack symbolizing our sins, while Christ offers to relieve us of this weight, granting us the freedom to ascend unencumbered. This imagery vividly portrays the liberation and solace found in embracing faith over legalistic adherence.
Phrases like “Because of transgressions” underscore the Law’s purpose in revealing human sinfulness and the necessity of divine intervention. “Until the Seed… had come” points to Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of God’s promise, emphasizing the temporary nature of the Law and the eternal aspect of the promise. “Locked up everything under the control of sin” vividly portrays the all-encompassing nature of sin, emphasizing the futility of self-righteousness and the inclusivity of God’s promise through faith.
In conclusion, Galatians 3:19-22 serves as a poignant lesson on the Law’s purpose and the significance of faith in Christ’s promise. It beckons us to acknowledge our need for a Savior and embrace the freedom found in faith. This passage stands as a timeless reminder of God’s redemptive plan and the unity shared by all believers in Christ, transcending time and culture to offer hope and salvation to all who believe.
Are we relying on the law or faith for salvation?
The verses you mentioned make it clear that the law was given to show people their sinfulness and need for a Savior. The law was unable to provide salvation or make anyone righteous in the eyes of God because no one could perfectly follow it. Instead, faith in Jesus Christ is what brings salvation. It is through faith, not by works of the law, that we are made right with God.
This passage emphasizes that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ. The law served its purpose in showing the need for a Savior, but it is faith in Christ that ultimately justifies and saves us. Our reliance should be on faith in Jesus and His work on the cross for our redemption, rather than trying to earn our salvation through adherence to the law. Our salvation is ultimately based on our faith in Jesus Christ, not on our ability to follow the law perfectly. We are saved through faith, not by our own efforts or works. Our trust and dependence should be in Jesus and His atoning sacrifice for our sins.
Application
Reflect on the power of grace revealed in Galatians 3:19-22. Embrace your imperfections and lean on God’s forgiveness. Let’s stand together in humility, relying on the sacrifice of Christ. Will you rise to the challenge, living in obedience and gratitude for God’s endless mercy?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.