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"But the Scripture has confined all under sin."

Text: Galatians 3:22a

THE SCRIPTURE

Paul had another word for the word “law”. He employed the word “Scripture”. The latter covers more than just the “law”.

But the Scripture has confined all under sin,
that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given
to those who believe.

Galatians 3:22

1. “But the Scripture has confined all under sin”

a) The Scripture

Reference to the entire written Word of God (The Law, the Prophets, the Writings).

b) The authority of the Scripture is recognized.

2. “Has confined all under sin”

a) All have indeed sinned.

b) This includes even the revered patriarchs of old (Abraham, Isaac, Jacob etc).

3. “That the promise”

a) This promise is a reference to the Abrahamic Covenant-promise.

b) Paul singles out the promise of life in particular.

c) He meant of course “eternal life”.

d) The word “that” introduces the idea of purpose (a Greek grammatical device).

e) The Scripture concluded that all have sinned in order that it might cause people to consider having faith.

4. “By faith in Jesus Christ”

a) Faith in Jesus Christ is the main focus here.

b) The law could never by itself offer eternal life.

c) However faith in the Lord Jesus could do just that.

5. “Might be given to those who believe”

a) Once again the focus returns to the word “faith” (The word “believe” and the word “faith” are essentially the same in the Greek text. The variation is in the verbal and noun forms.)

b) Those who believe in Jesus as the Christ, the Anointed Redeemer-Saviour sent by God.

c) The Lord Jesus promised that those who believe in Him would have eternal life (John 3:16).

d) The contrast between “the law” and “faith” is once again highlighted.

e) The encouragement to truly understand the significance of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ is obvious.