19 Why, then, the Law [what was its purpose]? It was added [after the promise to Abraham, to reveal to people their guilt] because of transgressions [that is, to make people conscious of the sinfulness of sin], and [the Law] was ordained through angels and delivered to Israel by the hand of a mediator [Moses, the mediator between God and Israel, to be in effect] until the Seed would come to whom the promise had been made. 20 Now the mediator or go-between [in a transaction] is not [needed] for just one party; whereas God is only one [and was the only One giving the promise to Abraham, but the Law was a contract between two, God and Israel; its validity depended on both].
21 Is the Law then contrary to the promises of God? Certainly not! For if a system of law had been given which could impart life, then righteousness (right standing with God) would actually have been based on law. 22 But the Scripture has imprisoned [b]everyone [everything—the entire world] under sin, so that [the inheritance, the blessing of salvation] which was promised through faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe [in Him and acknowledge Him as God’s precious Son].
Galatians 3:19-22 (AMP) 中文
Pure Gospel of Jesus
This letter from Paul to Christ followers living in the area of Galatia is all about the means of salvation. The Judiazer’s were spreading a false gospel which was the true gospel plus works (through the keeping of the Law – esp. circumcision). Paul sharply corrects this false teaching (that even affected the apostle Peter). We’re now in the theology section of the letter; using the Old covenant to prove the new.
Why did God give the law?
We use the AMP here for its abundant, helpful notes. For example, it reminds us that the law came after the promise to Abraham. Also, where the original manuscripts say the purpose of the law was “because of transgressions”, the AMP adds “to make people conscious of the sinfulness of sin” which aids in our understanding. It also fills in the gap (for those not familiar with the OT and Jewish history) that Moses is the mediator Paul is referring to. Moses was used by God to deliver the law and in the Exodus, he mediated between a righteous God and the sinful, rebellious nation of Israel.
Mediator proof
But the AMP notes that help most, I believe, are about the mediator difference between the law and the promise. The law was given through Moses and a contract between two parties – God and Israel. Each had an obligation to fulfill. Israel (representing mankind) could not fulfill the law so it failed. But the promise was one-sided – given by God to Abraham who had to do nothing, just believe. (Genesis 15:6)
Complementary, not contrary
Finally Paul argues that the law is not opposed to God’s promise but complementary. The law leads people to Christ for salvation since it cannot forgive sin. In fact, it is so good it imprisons everyone (Jews and gentiles alike). All are guilty and without any ability to save themselves through upholding the law. Those with faith in Christ use that faith to free themselves from that prison and gain eternal life.
RЯeflection
- Isn’t it amazing how God has this all mapped out! And, since He is God, He knew it from the beginning. Which may beg the question of, “Why did He even create if it would lead to sin and then the death of His Son”? There are a few good answers. Ask in the chat.
- As we’ve mentioned before, the AMP version has extensive notes [in brackets] to explain passages. I find them quite helpful – especially today. They are not in the original manuscripts so we must remember to not consider them the perfect, inspired Word of God.
