Galatians 3:15-22: Understanding God’s Promises and the Law

In this passage, Paul addresses a confusion some early Christians had about the relationship between God’s promises and the law.

What’s the Big Deal?

God made a promise to Abraham that all nations would be blessed through him (Genesis 12:3). This promise was based on faith, not on following the law, which came hundreds of years later.

Paul uses the example of a legal contract to illustrate his point. Once a contract is finalised, it can’t be changed or added to. In the same way, God’s promise to Abraham was a done deal, and the law couldn’t change it.

So, what’s the role of the law?

The law wasn’t meant to replace or contradict God’s promise. Instead, it served several purposes:

1. To reveal our sin: The law shows us how far we fall short of God’s perfect standard, making us aware of our need for a Saviour.
2. To act as a guardian: Like a tutor who guides a child, the law helped guide God’s people until Christ came.
3. To point to Christ: The law ultimately points us to Jesus, who perfectly fulfilled the law and offers forgiveness and salvation through faith.

What does this mean for us?

This passage reminds us that our salvation is not based on our ability to perfectly follow the law. It is a free gift from God, received through faith in Jesus Christ. The law is still important, but it’s not the means by which we are saved. It helps us understand our need for Jesus and guides us to live in a way that honours God.

Questions for Reflection

1. What was the promise God made to Abraham, and how was it different from the law?
2. Why do you think some people were confused about the relationship between God’s promises and the law?
3. How does the law reveal our sin and point us to Christ?
4. What role does faith play in receiving God’s promises?
5. How can understanding this passage help us live a life that is pleasing to God?

Challenge

Take some time this week to meditate on God’s promises in your life. How does your understanding of the law impact your relationship with God? Ask God to deepen your faith and guide you in living a life that reflects His grace and truth.