Thursday, September 17

THURSDAY, SEPTEMEBR 17, 2020

"Is the law, therefore, opposed to the promise of God? Absolutely not! For if a law had been given that could impart life, then righteousness would certainly have come by the law. But the Scripture declares that the whole world is a prisoner of sin, so that what was promised, being given through faith in Jesus Christ, might be given to those who believe." (Galatians 3:21,22)


The style and content of Galatians ties closely to the Book of Romans. Martin Luther, having discovered Galatians in his devotionals, begin formulating his teaching about "by faith alone" and "by grace alone" ("sola fide" and "sola gratia"), which became two of the five tenets of the Protestant Reformation.

In this passage above, we find Paul's wrestling with the place of the Law in God's redemptive history. Verses 15 to 18 articulate that the inheritance of God's people would come by promise, such as that given to Abraham in Genesis 12 and 15, and not by Law.

Yet, the Law existed "because of the transgressions until the Seed to whom the promised referred had come." The Law mediated between God and man. As Paul points out in Romans 3:20, "no one will be declared righteous in God's sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin." The Law brings accountability before a holy God and points us to our desperate need for an external mediator, the Lord Jesus Christ.

The inheritance of God's people are true riches (particularly God's presence), but, in order to experience them, we must first receive Christ (John 1:12). God gives us freedom to welcome or not welcome Him and His Kingdom agenda each day. Our choice makes a difference not just for today, but for eternity. May we embrace both the riches and purpose of our calling as His children.


Lord God, thank You for providing the Law to make us conscious of our sin. Help us to grow in knowledge of how much we need You. We welcome You and Your presence today. Give us strength so that we may obey You, by the power of the Holy Spirit. In Jesus's Name, amen.


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