Text: Galatians 3:19-22
Why then the law? It was added because of transgressions, until the offspring would come to whom the promise had been made; and it was ordained through angles by a mediator. Now a mediator involves more than one party; but God is one.
Is the law then opposed to the promises of God? Certainly not! For if a law had been given that could make alive, then righteousness would indeed come through the law. But the scripture has imprisoned all things under the power of sin, so that what was promised through faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe.
Verses 19 & 20 raise up some considerations about the law that seem to make the argument for it secondary status. The comments end with the assertion that God is one - in contradiction to the what preceeded it. Then comes a bit of sarcasm that is particularly pointed. The questions "Is the law then opposed to the promises of God?" comes from voices that are confronting what has just been said by Paul. The forceful "Certainly not!" is Paul's quick response. But then he throws in the kicker. In essence he says that the law - has nothing to do with the promises of God. "For if a law had been given that could make alive, then righteousness would indeed come through the law." God's promise comes not through the law but by faith. The law doesn't bring us into the same place as the promise of God to be our God. The law has another function - not to save - not to make one right before God. The law has it's good place - useful - helpful for daily order and life and community development...but it does not make one alive.
Connection: So then, what is the impact on being made alive -today!? We all know the law is a great help to us in each of our days. All the fuss over the ten commandments being put up on the walls of schools is a sign of that truthfulness. We like and we need and we respect the law and what it does to shape our living. But now, what impact does the promise of God to be our God have on our lives - today!? Trustiing that - having faith in that...what does life become for us - today!?!
Blessed Lord of Life, we give you thanks for the place of the law within our lives and for the gracious embrace of your promise. Lead us into a prayerful appreciation of your never failing love for us. Amen
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