Galatians 3:22

But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.

Galatians 3:22 (KJV)

Context

The apostle Paul wrote to the churches in Galatia, a region in Asia Minor (present-day Turkey), to counter the teaching of Judaizers. These teachers insisted that Gentile believers must follow the Jewish law, including circumcision, to be justified before God. Paul’s letter stresses the sufficiency of faith in Jesus Christ for salvation.

Meaning

“But the scripture hath concluded all under sin”: the scripture refers to the Old Testament, especially the Law given through Moses. The Greek verb translated “concluded” means to shut up or imprison, showing that Scripture has locked up all things under sin’s power. This is broader than individual persons; it encompasses all that is in humans and done by them, revealing the comprehensive scope of sin’s dominion. The Law exposed humanity’s sinfulness and made people aware of their need for a Savior.

“That the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe”: the promise refers to the covenantal promises made by God throughout the Old Testament, particularly the promise of salvation and inheritance. Paul emphasizes that this promise is fulfilled through faith in Jesus Christ. The faith of Jesus Christ points to His faithfulness, His sacrificial death on the cross, and His resurrection, which secured salvation for all who believe. The purpose of being imprisoned under sin is so that the promise might be given to those who believe—not earned by works, but received by faith.

Biblical connections

The universality of sin: Paul affirms that everyone, both Jews and Gentiles, is under the power and guilt of sin. The Law highlighted this reality and made people conscious of their need for a Savior. No one can be justified by their own efforts or by keeping the Law.

Salvation by faith: the promise of salvation and inheritance is received through faith in Jesus Christ, not by observing the Law or any human effort. Faith in Christ is the means by which individuals are justified and receive the promised blessings.

Inclusivity of the promise: the promise is not limited to a particular group but is open to all who believe. It is not restricted to the Jewish people but extends to Gentiles as well. In Christ, there is no distinction between Jew and Gentile, as all can be partakers of the promise through faith.

Application

Recognizing our need for a Savior: Galatians 3:22 reminds us that the Law reveals our sinfulness and our need for salvation. It humbles us and leads us to rely on Jesus Christ as our Savior.

Salvation by faith alone: we are justified and receive the promised blessings solely by faith in Jesus Christ. We should not rely on our own works or religious observances for salvation but trust in Christ’s finished work on the cross.

Embracing inclusive salvation: we should celebrate the inclusive nature of the promise. God’s salvation is available to all who believe, regardless of their background or ethnicity. We are called to extend the message of salvation to everyone, sharing the good news of Jesus Christ.

Reflection

Galatians 3:22 emphasizes the universality of sin and the sufficiency of faith in Jesus Christ for salvation. It reminds us of our need for a Savior and calls us to embrace the inclusive nature of God’s promise.