No Boasting

In this passage Paul makes a major shift in his presentation, leaving behind some of the themes that have dominated his arguments so far. Now he shifts to the primary subject of justification by faith, which will occupy his attention through chapter four. What is the fine line that Paul finds himself having to walk in this passage? What is syncretism, and how does it happen? How does the question about boasting in this passage arise? Would Paul's imaginary opponent really ask something like this? How is Paul using the word "law" in these verses? What is it that excludes boasting? If believing is something we do, then is it a work? How can works and faith be mutually exclusive? (52 min)