Galatians 3:22-23 But the scripture has concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.… The gospel is a reasonable scheme, on the principle that whatever other way is divised is found on trial to be deficient: so that man is shut up to the gospel as his only resource. In demonstrating this Paul introduces the law as a successful general which outmanoeuvres man in his every attempt at escape, and so compels him to await the throwing open of God's method of deliverance. I. WE MUST ASSUME IN MAN THE WORKINGS OF SPIRITUAL SOLICITUDE AND ANXIETY. The crying sin of the day is apathy, and many men are shut up in the prison of their own moral listlessness. But, presuming an awakened state, we must examine the avenues through which he tries to enter heaven, and the tactics of the law in intercepting him. II. REPENTANCE is one of these avenues: but in his attempt to escape:by it man is outgeneralled by the law, which refuses to admit the efficacy of sorrow and amendment, crying, "do this and live," "fail to do so and die." III. Forced back from this outlet, men endeavour to take refuge in the supposed MERCY OF GOD. But the law comes forward and dislodges them by showing that God has left no ground for the hope of unconditional forgiveness. IV. Thus men are SHUT UP BY THE LAW TO THE NEED OF A SURETY. It proves to the sinner — 1. That his curse must be endured. 2. That it has been endured by Christ the only Saviour. (H. Melvill, B. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. |
    |