March 18 Galatians 3:14
“so that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised Spirit through faith.”
1. Context:
This verse is part of Paul’s argument that justification comes by faith, not by works of the Law. In the broader passage (Galatians 3:1–14), Paul explains that those who rely on the Law are under a curse (Gal. 3:10), but Christ redeemed us from that curse by becoming a curse for us (Gal. 3:13). This redemption allows both Jews and Gentiles to receive the blessing promised to Abraham.
2. Blessing of Abraham:
• The blessing of Abraham refers primarily to righteousness by faith (Genesis 15:6), which Paul discusses earlier in Galatians 3:6–9.
• This blessing is not limited to Abraham’s physical descendants but extends to all nations (Genesis 12:3).
• Paul clarifies that the blessing is not material wealth or land but the deeper promise of salvation through faith in Christ.
3. Given to the Gentiles:
• Paul highlights that the gospel is for all people, not just Jews.
• Gentiles, who were once outside the covenant, are now included in God’s plan through faith in Jesus.
4. Receiving the Promised Spirit:
• The Holy Spirit is the fulfillment of God’s promise, signifying a new covenant (Ezekiel 36:26–27; Joel 2:28).
• The Spirit is received through faith, not through the Law. This was demonstrated at Pentecost when the Spirit was given apart from any works of the Law (Acts 2).
• The Spirit enables believers to live in relationship with God, guiding and transforming them.
Application:
• Salvation is through faith alone, not by works.
• The Holy Spirit is a gift from God, confirming our identity as His children (Romans 8:15).
• God’s promises are inclusive, breaking down divisions between Jew and Gentile, uniting all who believe in Christ.
This verse reinforces the core of the gospel: Justification, the Spirit, and the blessings of Abraham are received by faith in Christ, not by human effort.
The point, I believe, is that we strive to live rightly, not to earn God’s favor INSTEAD because we are grateful to have already received His blessings through faith in Jesus.
How do you understand the meaning of saved by faith and good works?
Click here for more posts