Understanding Galatians 3:19 - Bible Verse Commentary

Bible Verse: "What then was the purpose of the law? It was added because of transgressions, until the offspring should come to whom the promise had been made, and it was put in place through angels by an intermediary." (Galatians 3:19 ESV)

In Galatians 3:19, the Apostle Paul addresses the purpose of the Law in relation to the promise given to Abraham. This verse is rich in meaning and significance, making it essential for understanding both the context of the New Testament and the overarching narrative of the Bible.

Purpose of the Law

This verse emphasizes that the Law was not intended to be a permanent fixture in God’s plan but was established "because of transgressions". The Law served as a temporary measure to govern the behavior of the people and to highlight their need for salvation through grace.

• Matthew Henry notes that the Law introduced by Moses was a means to make sin known, demonstrating humanity’s inability to meet God’s standards.
• Albert Barnes explains that the Law was added to create a framework of morality and awareness of sin, which would ultimately point to the necessity of Christ's redemptive work.
• Adam Clarke elaborates that the Law acted as a custodian, managing the spiritual well-being of God's people until Christ, the promised offspring, arrived to fulfill the covenant.

Temporary Nature of the Law

Paul indicates that the Law was only 'until the offspring should come.' This signifies the transition from the Old Covenant of Law to the New Covenant of Grace established through Jesus Christ’s sacrifice. The arrival of Christ marks the fulfillment of God's promises and the establishment of a new way for humanity to relate to God.

Context of Transgressions

The term 'transgressions' highlights human shortcomings and rebellion against God’s commands. The Law served to reveal these transgressions, emphasizing the need for redemption. Understanding this context is crucial for biblical exegesis and interpreting the significance of the Gospel.

The Role of the Mediator

Paul’s mention of the Law being 'put in place through angels by an intermediary' raises important theological considerations. It suggests that there are mediators in God’s plan, which prefigures Christ as the ultimate mediator between God and humanity (1 Timothy 2:5).

Key Insights for Bible Study Groups

This verse presents a valuable opportunity for bible study groups to explore:

• The function of the Law in the biblical narrative.
• How the Old and New Testaments connect through covenants.
• The implications of transgressions for modern Christian life.

Applying Galatians 3:19 to Daily Life

For personal application, believers can reflect on the idea that understanding the Law helps in recognizing their need for grace. It calls for an introspection on how they respond to God’s commands and the grace provided through Christ.

Cross-References

This verse relates to several other passages that deepen the understanding of its message:

• Romans 5:20 - "Now the law came in to increase the trespass, but where sin increased, grace abounded all the more."
• Galatians 4:4 - "But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law,"
• Hebrews 7:12 - "For when there is a change in the priesthood, there is necessarily a change in the law as well."

Conclusion

Galatians 3:19 serves as a critical juncture in understanding the relationship between the Law and the promise. It invites believers to explore the rich layers of Bible verse meanings and to deepen their Bible study insights through a contextual and theological lens.

In conclusion, this verse underscores the temporary role of the Law while pointing forward to Christ, encouraging all to reflect on their faith and the covenantal promises of God.