Faith, Not Law: God’s Way of Righteousness (Galatians 3) | John MacArthur

Deep Dive into Galatians: The MacArthur New Testament Commentary by John MacArthur - Galatians 3In his commentary on Galatians 3, John MacArthur explores Paul’s vigorous defense of justification by faith against the legalistic "bewitching" of the Judaizers. Paul expresses shock that the Galatians, having received the Holy Spirit through faith, would attempt to reach spiritual perfection through the works of the Law. He argues that shifting from grace to legalism is not an improvement but a desertion of the gospel that leads back to bondage.Paul utilizes Abraham as the primary scriptural proof that righteousness is granted by faith alone. Abraham was reckoned righteous because he believed God’s promise, a declaration made years before the Mosaic Law or the command for circumcision. This covenant of promise is superior to the Law because it is unconditional, permanent, and centered on Christ. While the Law demands absolute perfection and thus brings a curse upon all who fail, Christ redeemed believers by taking that curse upon Himself during His crucifixion.The Law’s intended purpose was never to save but to act as a tutor (paidagōgos) or guardian. It functioned as a spiritual prison, "shutting up" humanity under sin to expose their total inability to save themselves through self-effort. By highlighting the depth of human transgression, the Law serves to drive individuals toward the necessity of a Savior.Upon exercising faith, believers experience a spiritual "coming of age," becoming sons of God. They are clothed with Christ, a graphic description of how His righteous nature envelops the believer. This new identity transcends all social, racial, and sexual distinctions, making all believers one in Christ Jesus. Consequently, they are recognized as the true spiritual offspring of Abraham and heirs to the eternal promises of God.The Law acts much like a physical warning system: just as the sensation of pain alerts a person to a bodily injury so they can seek medical treatment, the Law uses the "pain" of guilt to alert the soul to sin so the sinner will seek the Savior.Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologianhttps://buymeacoffee.com/edi2730