Galatians 3:23

But before faith came, wee were kept vnder the Law, shut vp vnto the faith, which should afterwards bee reuealed. Galatians 3:23 (KJV)

The book of Galatians was written by the apostle Paul to the churches in Galatia. In this letter Paul confronts legalism, specifically the claim by some Jewish Christians that Gentile believers must keep the Mosaic Law and be circumcised to be saved. Paul vehemently opposes this teaching and stresses that salvation comes by faith in Jesus Christ alone.

“Before faith came” refers to the period prior to the coming of Christ, when humanity was under the law. The law functioned as a tutor or custodian, exposing humanity’s inability to meet God’s perfect standards and pointing to the need for a Savior (see Galatians 3:24; Romans 3:20; 7:7‑13). The phrase “we were kept under the law” emphasizes that the law restrained people, showing their sinfulness and serving as a temporary measure until the fulfillment of God’s plan in Christ. The expression “shut up unto the faith which should be revealed” conveys that the law held people captive until the faith revealed in Christ could set them free. “After faith has come” the role of the law changes: believers are no longer under a schoolmaster, for faith in Jesus now provides the means of justification (Galatians 2:16).

Key lessons emerge from this teaching. First, the law was never intended as the means of salvation; it merely highlighted humanity’s need for grace and redemption through faith in Christ. Second, the centrality of faith in Christ means that believers are justified not by works but by trusting in the finished work of the cross (Ephesians 2:8‑9). Third, faith brings freedom: through Christ believers are released from the condemnation of the law and are empowered by the Holy Spirit to live obediently out of love and gratitude (Romans 8:1; Galatians 5:1, 16).

Application follows naturally. Embrace salvation by faith, recognizing that it is a gift of grace, not a product of personal effort or ritual. Guard against legalism by refusing to add burdens to the gospel message. Live in the freedom Christ provides, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide a life that honors God out of love rather than obligation. For deeper insight, read the surrounding verses and consult reliable commentaries on Galatians 3:23.