The Law and the Promise

“Accordingly, the Torah functioned as a custodian until the Messiah came, so that we might be declared righteous on the ground of trusting and being faithful. But now that the trusting faithfulness has come, we are no longer under a custodian.”

— Galatians 3:24–25 CJB

 

The Law’s Purpose:

Paul reminds us in Galatians that the law was never designed to replace God’s promise. Instead, it was meant to reveal our sin and our need for salvation. The law sets the standard of God’s holiness, but it cannot give life or righteousness. It is like a mirror—showing us where we fall short.

 

The Power of the Promise:

The promise, given to Abraham long before the law, was always rooted in God’s grace. That promise was fulfilled in Christ Jesus. Where the law exposes, the promise redeems. Where the law accuses, the promise forgives.

 

Law and Grace in Harmony:

It’s not law versus grace—it’s the law leading us to grace. Paul says the law was our “custodian,” pointing us forward until Christ came. Now that faith in Jesus has been revealed, we are no longer bound under the custodian, but set free by His sacrifice.

 

Reflection:

The law says, “You can’t do it.”

The promise says, “Christ has done it for you.”

And in Him, we are free—not free to sin, but free to live holy lives empowered by His Spirit.

 

Prayer:

Father, thank You for giving us Your Word as a guide, and Your Son as our Savior. May I never forget that while the law shows me my need, Your promise shows me Your grace. Help me to live not in my own strength, but in the freedom of Christ. Amen.

 

-Rev Carlos Figueroa