Which Law is Galatians 3 Referring To: Exploring the Biblical Context

When examining the text of the Bible, particularly Galatians 3, it is important to consider the context and background of the passage in relation to the broader teachings on law, salvation, and faith. This exploration will delve into the primary law discussed in Galatians 3, Deuteronomy, Exodus, and Psalms, and the teachings of the apostle Paul as recorded in 2:

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Contextual Background and Key Scriptures

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The Book of Exodus mentions the giving of the Law on Mt. Sinai, as recorded in Exodus 24:12. Yahuah commands Moses to go up to Him on the mountain where He will give him tablets of stone, the Torah, and the commandments. This event establishes the foundation of the Mosaic Law, which later becomes a central topic in the New Testament as the apostle Paul addresses issues of law and faith in his teachings.

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Similarly, expressions of deliverance and reliance on Yahuah, such as those found in Exodus 15:2 and Isaiah 12:2, illustrate the reliance on God and the understanding that He is the ultimate deliverer. These scriptures provide context for the idea that Yahuah is the source of true deliverance and strength, and not the Mosaic Law itself.

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In Psalms 118:14, the psalmist declares, "Yah is my strength and song and He has become my deliverance." This further emphasizes the notion that true strength and deliverance come from God, rather than adherence to the Law. This idea is crucial in understanding how the apostle Paul interprets the role of the Law in Galatians 3.

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Galatians 3:24-29 and the Role of the Law

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In Galatians 3:24-29, Paul addresses the question of the Law's role in salvational matters. According to Paul, the Law serves as a trainer to lead believers to Christ (v.24). Paul argues that once belief in Messiah Yahshua has come, believers are no longer under the constraints of the Law (v.25). This perspective is rooted in the idea that the Law was a temporary arrangement, described as a "tutor leading to Christ" (v.24).

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Paul references specific verses from Paul's own writings, such as Ga 5:1 ("For it is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let anyone violate your freedom by doing something that nullifies your freedom in Christ. ")[1] which reinforces the idea that those who rely on works of the Law are under a curse (Galatians 3:10).

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In Galatians 3:13, Paul states, "Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: 'Cursed is everyone who is hung on a pole'". This refers to the Genesis 3:17-19 curse, further emphasizing that Christ's role was to bear the curse of the Law on behalf of believers, thus releasing them from the Law's burdens.

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Further Insights from Galatians 6

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Paul's teachings continue in Galatians 6:7-9, where he warns against being led astray and encourages a commitment to doing good works. According to Paul, one will reap a harvest of corruption if he sows to his flesh, whereas sowing to the Spirit will bring everlasting life (v.8). This passage emphasizes the importance of living according to the Spirit, a concept closely tied to faith in Messiah Yahshua.

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The apostle Paul's encouragement to not lose heart in doing good and to continue until a harvest is reaped underscores the idea that salvation is not about works but about faith. This message is a direct response to the Galatian believers who had begun to rely on their own efforts rather than achieving righteousness through faith in Christ.

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In conclusion, the Law in Galatians 3 is portrayed not as a means to salvation, but as a temporary framework that directs believers toward the fulfillment of salvation in Christ. The Law, as a "tutor leading to Christ" (Galatians 3:24), serves a pedagogical role before believers can fully embrace the grace and freedom of faith in Messiah Yahshua.

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Conclusion

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Galatians 3 teaches that salvation comes through faith in Christ, not through adherence to the Mosaic Law. The Law, while legal and binding, serves a pedagogical role guiding believers toward Christ and the fulfillment of the promise of salvation. Faith in Messiah Yahshua is the means by which believers are declared righteous, and this truth is meant to bring them joy and freedom.

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Through the careful examination of the Scriptures and the teachings of the apostle Paul, the conclusion is clear: the Law is not the ultimate source of deliverance or righteousness but rather a tool of training that points believers to Christ and the promise of salvation.[2]

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References

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[1] Galatians 5:1 NIV

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[2] Galatians 3:17-25 NIV