Gálatas 3:23-29

Galatians 3:23-Joel : . Inferior, temporary, co-operating— such is the distinctive nature of the Law. It had held Israel prisoner, till Christ should come. Or it resembled the slave who led a child to (Christ’ s) school ( 1 Corinthians 4:15 *). Now that Christ has appeared there is no room for a law-regime. Sonship, faith, a new humanity “ put on” like a garment at baptism ( Galatians 3:27; cf. Romans 13:14, and in a modified application, 1 Corinthians 15:53 f.), these are the privileges of Christians. Why be circumcised? Why Judaize? The new humanity is international— no room now for Jewish superiority! And, while there is a blessing in being Abraham’ s seed, the true descent is spiritual, and Christ gives the blessing according to the promise. Law give it? Never!— Evangelical Protestants must not ignore Paul’ s sacramental doctrine; still, they are entitled to urge that the keynote of all remains “ faith.” The apostle believes and teaches nothing which could make faith less than all-important. ( 1 Corinthians 8 ff. is peculiarly instructive as to his attitude towards quasi-magical sacramental doctrines. The idol taint is not physical.)

Galatians 3:27 . put on.— It is tempting to conjecture that the phrase is borrowed from the mystery religions; but authorities have failed to find confirmatory evidence.