galatians 3:1-5
We are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ crucified, not by works.
Throughout his letter to the Galatians, Paul shares his faith journey and challenges the Galatians to remember theirs. He presses them to decide between trusting Christ while also trusting certain Jewish practices for salvation (Judaizers) or trusting in the finished work of Christ for their salvation.
The way to be right with God is through faith. Abraham is a central figure in Jewish history.
They believed that Abraham was righteous because of what he had done, but Paul quotes Genesis 15:6 four times to illustrate that Abraham was justified by faith, reminding the Galatians that salvation comes not from being descended from Abraham but by following his example in believing God.
The way to be right with God is not through works. Many think that keeping the 10 Commandments and doing our best to be a good person is enough to earn salvation and a place in heaven. Even by that standard, we all fall short (Romans 3:23-24). Only by Jesus being crucified and sacrificing himself on our behalf could we be redeemed from slavery to salvation so that we could receive the blessing of Abraham.
By faith in Jesus Christ crucified, there is redemption, blessing, and the promise of the spirit. Galatians 3:14 says, “He redeemed us so that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit.” It would be enough if Jesus simply took away the curse we deserved in our sinful state. Ultimately, He did far more than that; He imparted a blessing (Galatians 3:8-9) that we didn’t deserve. The promise of the Spirit is received, not earned. It is the gift of God lest any man should boast (Ephesians 2:8-10).
What is the significance of Paul’s quote of Genesis 15:6 in Galatians 3:6-8?
Why does Paul quote from Deuteronomy 27:26 in Galatians 3:10? What point is he making about human sin? What point is he making about the law? How does this point push back against the teaching of the Judaizers?
According to Galatians 3:8-9, what is the extent of the gospel? (Compare with Acts 1:8)
What false teachings and influences do you think are most dangerous in potentially “bewitching” the church today? How can you be sure to identify those properly and resist them?
How does it bring you comfort to know that peace with God requires faith alone? How can you remind yourself—and believers around you—to continue in the Christian life the same way we began the Christian life: by faith?
Jesus became a curse for you and has given you His Spirit. What significance does that have in how you relate to God? How would it be different if your relationship was based on your performance? Do you ever live as if it is?
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