Galatians 3:20

Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.

Galatians 3:20 (KJV)

Context

Paul writes to the Galatians to correct a serious misunderstanding: some were teaching that believers must keep the Mosaic law to be made right with God. In Galatians 3, he contrasts two ways of receiving God’s blessing: the law, given through Moses, and the promise, given directly to Abraham. This verse sits at the heart of that contrast, explaining why the law is inferior to the promise.

Meaning

The word “mediator” (Greek: mesitēs) means an intermediary or go-between who stands between two parties. A mediator is only needed when there are at least two parties who are separated or at odds. In the Old Testament, Moses served as mediator between God and Israel when the law was given. Paul’s point is that the law involved a mediator, which indicates a distance between God and His people. The promise to Abraham, however, was given directly by God, without any intermediary.

The phrase “but God is one” is a powerful statement of monotheism. It affirms that God is the sole source of the promise and that His promise is unilateral and unconditional. Because God is one, He is self-sufficient and does not need a mediator to accomplish His purposes. The law, mediated through Moses, was a temporary arrangement; the promise, given directly by the one God, is eternal and unchangeable.

Biblical connections

This verse connects to Paul’s broader argument that justification comes through faith in Jesus Christ, not by works of the law. The law was given to reveal sin and to lead people to the need for a Savior. Jesus Christ, as the Son of God, fulfilled the law and provided redemption through His sacrificial death and resurrection. The singularity of God guarantees the certainty of His promise, so believers are called to trust in God’s promise rather than in the law.

Application

For believers today, this verse is a call to rest in God’s direct and faithful promise. We do not need to earn God’s favor through human effort or religious performance. Because God is one and His word stands firm, we can trust that His promise of salvation through faith in Christ is sure. Our relationship with God is not mediated by the law but is grounded in His own faithful character.

Reflection

God’s oneness is not just a theological fact; it is the foundation of our confidence. If God is one, then His promise is as unchanging as His nature. We can approach Him with assurance, knowing that He who made the promise is faithful to keep it.