Galatians 3:11

But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.

Galatians 3:11 (KJV)

Context

Paul wrote this letter to the churches in Galatia to counter a false teaching that Gentile believers must observe Jewish laws and customs to be saved. In this verse, he draws a clear contrast between two ways of being made right with God: by the law or by faith.

Meaning

“Justification” means being declared righteous, or made right with God. The “law” refers to the Mosaic Law given to Israel, including the Ten Commandments and the ceremonial and moral laws. Paul insists that no one is justified by the law in God’s sight. The reason is evident: Scripture itself declares, “The just shall live by faith.” True righteousness before God comes through faith in Jesus Christ and His sacrifice, not through perfect law-keeping.

Biblical connections

Paul quotes Habakkuk 2:4, where the prophet writes, “the just shall live by his faith.” This Old Testament reference shows that God’s plan of salvation has always been based on faith, not on human effort. The surrounding passage in Galatians 3:10-12 contrasts the curse that comes from relying on the law with the life that comes by faith.

Application

This verse challenges any tendency to add human effort to faith as the basis of salvation. Believers can rest in Christ’s finished work, knowing that righteousness is received, not earned. The just shall live by faith—not by the law, not by works, but by trusting in Jesus.