Day 121, Galatians 3
In chapter 2 we saw that true relationship with God is received as a free gift, not earned through obedience to external regulations.
Today we see that this truth has been lost by the believers in Galatia. They seek to live perfect lives by observing rules and regulations, and thus to earn salvation. This is irksome to Paul, who clearly showed them the freedom unleashed by the resurrection after the crucifixion ended sin’s grip on humanity. He goes as far as to say they have been bewitched! Often the things that lead us astray are not other people, but the spiritual forces that have gained a foothold to influence other people..
Thus the legalism the Galatians are embracing is deceptive, because the Law was constructed around the promise of salvation to Abraham in similar fashion to adding scaffolding around a building which is under construction. It restricts the view of the new edifice until it is taken down and the beauty of the architect’s vision is revealed.
Changing metaphors, it is as if we have been assigned a guardian to direct us and make decisions for us, until we mature. Now that Jesus has died and risen from the dead, sin and death are defeated and we are free from the constraints of our guardian, the Law. The scaffolding is taken down and the beauty of God’s living Temple is revealed: “for in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to promise.
Hallelujah!
Have a great day!
Mark