Galatians 3:19

Why then was the law given? It was added because of transgressions, until the arrival of the seed to whom the promise referred. It was administered through angels by a mediator.

Study Bible

Why then was the law given?
This phrase introduces a rhetorical question that Paul anticipates from his audience. The Greek word for "law" here is "νόμος" (nomos), which refers to the Mosaic Law given to Israel. Historically, the law was central to Jewish identity and religious practice. Paul is addressing a common Jewish understanding that the law was essential for righteousness. The question challenges the necessity of the law in light of the promise given to Abraham, emphasizing that the law was not the ultimate means of salvation.

It was added because of transgressions
The phrase "because of transgressions" uses the Greek word "παραβάσεις" (parabaseis), meaning violations or overstepping of boundaries. The law was given to reveal sin and make people aware of their need for a Savior. It served as a mirror to show humanity's sinful nature and inability to achieve righteousness on their own. This aligns with the historical context of the Israelites, who needed guidance and boundaries to live in a way that honored God.

until the arrival of the Seed
The "Seed" refers to Christ, as Paul clarifies earlier in Galatians 3:16. The Greek word "σπέρμα" (sperma) is singular, emphasizing that the promise was ultimately fulfilled in one person, Jesus Christ. This highlights the temporary nature of the law, which was in place only until Christ came to fulfill the promise. The historical context here is crucial, as it underscores the transition from the old covenant of the law to the new covenant of grace through faith in Christ.

to whom the promise referred
This phrase points back to the promise made to Abraham, which was ultimately about the coming of Christ. The Greek word "ἐπαγγελία" (epangelia) means promise, indicating a divine assurance that was not dependent on human action. The promise was always about faith and grace, not law and works. This reflects the scriptural context of God's unchanging plan for salvation through faith, as seen throughout the narrative of the Bible.

It was administered through angels
The administration of the law through angels is a reference to Jewish tradition, which held that angels were mediators in the giving of the law at Sinai. The Greek word "διαταγείς" (diatageis) means arranged or ordained, suggesting a divine order in the giving of the law. This highlights the majesty and seriousness of the law, while also pointing to its inferiority compared to the direct relationship believers have with God through Christ.

by a mediator
The "mediator" here refers to Moses, who acted as the intermediary between God and the Israelites. The Greek word "μεσίτης" (mesites) means one who intervenes between two parties. This underscores the indirect nature of the old covenant, which required a human mediator. In contrast, the new covenant through Christ allows believers direct access to God, emphasizing the superiority of the new covenant over the old.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Law
Refers to the Mosaic Law given to the Israelites, which includes moral, ceremonial, and civil laws.

2. Transgressions
Human sins and violations of God's commands, highlighting the need for the law to reveal sin.

3. The Seed
Refers to Jesus Christ, the promised descendant through whom God's promises are fulfilled.

4. Angels
Spiritual beings who, according to Jewish tradition, were involved in the giving of the law at Mount Sinai.

5. Mediator
Moses, who acted as the intermediary between God and the Israelites during the giving of the law.

Teaching Points

Purpose of the Law
The law was given to reveal sin and make humanity aware of their need for a Savior.

Temporary Nature of the Law
The law was a temporary measure until the coming of Christ, the promised Seed, who fulfills the law.

Role of Mediators
Moses served as a mediator for the Old Covenant, but Christ is the mediator of the New Covenant, offering direct access to God.

Angelic Involvement
The involvement of angels in the giving of the law underscores the law's divine origin and authority.

Promise Fulfilled in Christ
The promise to Abraham finds its fulfillment in Christ, emphasizing the continuity and fulfillment of God's plan.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the purpose of the law in Galatians 3:19 help us appreciate the role of Christ as our Savior?

2. In what ways does the temporary nature of the law affect our understanding of the Old and New Covenants?

3. How can recognizing Christ as our mediator change the way we approach our relationship with God?

4. What significance does the involvement of angels in the giving of the law have for our view of Scripture's authority?

5. How does the fulfillment of the promise to Abraham in Christ encourage us in our faith journey today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 5:20
Discusses how the law was introduced to increase awareness of sin, similar to Galatians 3:19's explanation of the law's purpose.

Hebrews 2:2
Mentions the role of angels in delivering the law, aligning with the reference in Galatians 3:19.

Genesis 22:18
Refers to the promise made to Abraham about his Seed, which is fulfilled in Christ, as mentioned in Galatians 3:19.

1 Timothy 2:5
Highlights Christ as the ultimate mediator between God and humanity, contrasting with Moses' role in the Old Covenant.