Galatians 3:23

"But the Scripture imprisoned all things under sin, that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe."

Key Reflection

Galatians 3:23 highlights a profound theological concept. The passage indicates that the Law, with its commandments and regulations, served as a temporary guardian or custodian over humanity, effectively placing all people under the dominion of sin. This was done to ensure that the promise of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ would be available exclusively for those who trusted him. In this way, the Law acted not as a means of righteousness but rather as a preparatory tool leading to Christ and the ultimate fulfillment of God's salvific plan.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 23. But before faith came. That is, the system of salvation by faith in the Lord Jesus. Faith here denotes the Christian religion, because faith is its distinguishing characteristic. We were kept under the law. We, who were sinners; we, who have violated the law. It is a general truth, that before the gospel was introduced, men were under the condemning sentence of the law. Shut up unto the faith. Enclosed by the law with reference to the full and glorious revelation of a system of salvation by faith. The design and tendency of the law was to shut us up to that as the only method of salvation. All other means failed.

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