Galatians 3:21

“Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.”

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Verse: “Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.”

Context:The book of Galatians was written by the apostle Paul to the churches in Galatia to address the issue of legalism. In this particular verse, Paul is emphasizing the relationship between the law and God’s promises.

The Law and the Promises:Paul poses a rhetorical question: “Is the law then against the promises of God?” His response is a resounding “God forbid” or “Certainly not.” Paul clarifies that the purpose of the law was not to nullify or contradict God’s promises. The law was given by God to the Israelites through Moses as a guide for righteous living and to reveal sin (Romans 7:7). It contained moral, ceremonial, and civil regulations.

Law’s Inability to Give Life:Paul asserts that if there had been a law given which could have given life, then righteousness would have been obtained by the law. However, the law cannot provide life or salvation. The law exposes sin but does not have the power to save or grant eternal life. In Romans 3:20, Paul states, “Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.”

The Purpose of the Law:Although the law cannot save, it serves several important purposes. It reveals God’s righteous standards and exposes humanity’s sinfulness. The law acts as a tutor or schoolmaster, leading people to recognize their need for a Savior (Galatians 3:24). It highlights the fact that all have sinned and fall short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23) and points us to Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the law perfectly (Matthew 5:17).

The Promise of Righteousness by Faith:In the preceding verses of Galatians 3, Paul emphasizes the importance of faith in Jesus Christ. He explains that it is through faith that we become children of God and are justified. In Galatians 3:22, Paul states, “But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.”

The Gospel of Grace:The contrast between the law and God’s promises is a central theme in the book of Galatians. Paul stresses that salvation is not achieved by following the law but by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. The promises of God are fulfilled in Christ, who offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin and grants forgiveness and eternal life to all who believe in Him.

In conclusion, Galatians 3:21 highlights the insufficiency of the law to bring salvation and emphasizes the need for faith in Jesus Christ. The law’s purpose is to reveal sin and point people to their need for a Savior. Salvation is a gift of God’s grace received through faith, and it is in Christ that the promises of God find their fulfillment.