Cursing or Blessing

I continue to be astounded at how each new section in Galatians presents the gospel in a fresh way. I didn't think it could get any better than 2:16,20 and 3:6; but I think that this passage will be one of my favorites for the rest of my life.

In the previous passage Paul had shown that as Abraham was justified by faith alone, so God has always saved by faith alone. Believing Gentiles are children of Abraham who are heirs of his blessing from God.

In this week's passage Paul contrasts the only two possible ways by which people seek to be justified by God. One must choose between faith and works. It is impossible to combine the two. Those who rely upon their works will be under God's curse. Those who approach God by faith are blessed because Christ our substitute took the curse for our sin.

Again Paul quotes from the Old Testament (several times) Deut. 27:26 21:23 Lev. 18:5 Hab. 2:4. I would encourage you to read Galatians 3 and to read the Old Testament texts from which Paul quotes in their context.