“But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed.”– Galatians 3:23 (KJV)
“Before the way of faith in Christ was available to us, we were placed under guard by the law. We were kept in protective custody, so to speak, until the faith which was coming was revealed.”– Galatians 3:23 (NLT)
“Until the time when we were mature enough to respond freely in faith to the living God, we were carefully guarded by the law. The law was like those ancient Greek tutors with whom you’d sign your kids up for schooling. They’d keep an eye on them, but they would never teach them.”– Galatians 3:23 (MSG)
What Does Galatians 3:23 Mean?
Galatians 3:23 presents a profound reflection on the role of the law in the life of believers before the coming of Christ. To grasp its meaning, we need to consider what Paul was communicating to the Galatians. He were addressing Christians who were vulnerable to false teachings regarding salvation and righteousness. Paul clarified that before faith in Jesus Christ was available, people were under the law. This law served as a protective measure, guiding them until the arrival of faith.
Being “kept under the law” suggests a scenario where the law acted like a prison guard. The law was there, monitoring the behavior of the people. It aimed to show them their sinfulness and inability to reach God’s standards on their own. This law was not a horrible thing. It played an essential role, which was to help people recognize their need for a savior. It helped them see that they were not perfect and could not earn their way into a relationship with God solely through their works.
Galatians 3:23 Explanation and Commentary
As we explore Galatians 3:23 deeper, we understand that Paul was addressing a specific issue among the Galatian believers. They were being swayed by those who suggested that following the Jewish law was necessary for their salvation. Paul wanted them to understand that the law was temporary and not designed to be a pathway to salvation. Instead, it pointed out their shortcomings and drove them to seek the grace of God.
The statement “kept under the law” illustrates how the law restricted believers. It was like being in a holding cell, waiting for the time of release. Paul explained that before Christ, the law kept everyone confined. It was only a means to an end, paving the way for understanding and faith in Christ. Once Jesus arrived, everything changed! Faith began to flourish, allowing people to have a direct relationship with God without the burden of the law as a regulating force.
This sheds light on the concept of faith and how critical it is in our journey as Christians. Salvation comes through faith, not by the works of the law. The law was like a shadow of good things to come, as outlined in Hebrews 10:1. With the appearance of faith, believers were no longer confined but liberated to enjoy a relationship founded on love, grace, and mercy.
We can bring in other verses for comparison! For example, in Romans 7:4, Paul writes that we have “died to the law through the body of Christ” so that we may belong to Him. This aspect emphasizes a transformative experience through faith, leading us to a new life where our identity is rooted in Christ rather than the law.
Context of Galatians 3:23
Understanding the context of Galatians 3:23 is vital for grasping its meaning fully. Paul’s letter to the Galatians was written to counteract false teachings that suggested believers needed to observe the law alongside faith in Christ for salvation. The Galatian church was being deceived by those insisting on following Jewish customs to be fully accepted by God.
Paul refutes these teachings vehemently. He emphasizes the primary role of faith—trusting in Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross—as the only means of salvation. Galatians 3:23 fits into this overall argument. The law was necessary to highlight sin and guide us to the realization of our need for salvation, but it was never meant to be the final answer. The context helps us see that the law cannot save us, but it plays an essential role in preparing our hearts for the message of grace delivered through Jesus.
We also see that Paul’s language reflects a deep-seated concern for the spiritual health of the Galatians. He passionately wants them to appreciate their freedom in Christ instead of binding themselves to the law’s chains. As followers of Christ today, we can relate to this struggle. Living in grace can sometimes feel daunting as we may want to revert to old habits or rules. Paul reminds us that we are not defined by the law but by our identity in Christ.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Galatians 3:23
Breaking down Galatians 3:23 allows us to uncover additional layers of meaning. The phrase “before faith came” signifies a period when people relied on the law to achieve righteousness. The law was not wholly bad, but it wasn’t designed to be a permanent solution. Its purpose was to lead us toward the understanding that faith was needed.
In the expression “shut up unto the faith,” we see vivid imagery of confinement. The law kept people under its authority. While it revealed sin, it could not provide the remedy needed for that sin. This is a crucial understanding; the law served a purpose, but it left one feeling trapped and wanting.
The transition to “which should afterwards be revealed” shows that this confinement had an expiration date. God had a plan all along. Paul’s words reflect the anticipation of a new way to relate to God through faith in Christ. This revelation was a turning point for humanity—a move from being regulated by law to being free in grace.
Lessons to Learn From Galatians 3:23
There are many transforming lessons we can take away from Galatians 3:23. It offers profound insights into the nature of God’s love and plan for us. A primary lesson is understanding that the law has its place but is not our foundation. We should not rely on our efforts or good works for approval; instead, we rest in the realization that we are accepted by God through faith.
This perspective transforms how we view our daily lives. It can inspire us to act out of love and gratitude rather than obligation. When we comprehend that our relationship with God is secured through Jesus, we focus on responding to His love, leading us to live in ways that glorify Him.
Another lesson teaches us the reality of our human limitations. The law highlights our failures, showing us we need a savior. The struggle with sin is something everyone experiences. Galatians 3:23 invites us to lean into the grace offered through Jesus. Accepting this grace empowers us to overcome our challenges and encourages hope for growth and change.
Final Thoughts
Our exploration of Galatians 3:23 reveals the beauty of God’s plan in sending Jesus to fulfill the law’s requirements and to offer us a new way of living. It teaches us about our need for Christ and the freedom we find in faith rather than in rules and regulations. As we reflect on this verse, we encourage each other to embrace the grace given through Christ. Trusting in Him allows us to grow deeper in our relationship with God.
There are many beautiful topics in the Bible that help us grow in faith. If you’re interested in learning more, we invite you to check out the inspiring stories in 1 Samuel 20:3, or explore the blessings of love in 1 Corinthians 13:13. Dive deeper into Scripture and let God’s truth transform our hearts!