Cursed or Blessed

Paul begins this section by stating that all who rely on works of the law to justify themselves are under a curse. Referring to his previous statements, he distinguishes between two groups: those of the law and those of faith. As mentioned in verse 9, those of faith are blessed. However, those who rely on works of the law are not blessed but cursed, as quoted from Deuteronomy 27:26. This curse stems from the law’s demand for perfection (James 2:9). To be saved by the law, one must keep it entirely. The Galatians, and we too, must remember this in our struggle to rely solely on Christ.

Having demonstrated the impossibility of keeping the law, Paul reveals its incompatibility with faith. Faith is humble reliance on God’s mercy, while law-keeping is a prideful attempt to earn a reward. These two approaches are fundamentally opposed.

Paul then presents the cure for the curse of the law: the cross. Christ became the curse! We praise God for His grace.Christ exchanged places with the lawbreaker, bearing the curse we deserve. We don’t receive this cure through our efforts but by faith, as Paul clarifies in verse 14.

Covenant Promises

Concluding this section, Paul returns to Abraham and the covenant God made with him. He wants the Galatians to understand that everyone who is joined to Abraham’s promised offspring by faith is a recipient of Abraham’s blessing (verses 17-18). God’s covenant with Abraham is unconditional and forms the foundation for every covenant in Scripture.The law, introduced centuries after God’s promise to Abraham, cannot invalidate this covenant. Therefore, our salvation is not based on our ability to earn righteousness but on God’s faithfulness to His promise of a people for Himself through the work of His offspring, Jesus.

Outline: Three Interwoven Responses to Crush Pride

1. Realize the Curse (verses 10-12)
2. Receive the Cure (verses 13-14)
3. Rest in the Covenant (verses 15-18)

Main Point: God’s gracious promises crush our sinful pride.

Additional Study Questions

1. How does using the law as a means to earn righteousness hinder us from receiving God’s gift of salvation? Use Paul’s argument in Galatians and other scriptures to support your answer.
2. At the core of Paul’s gospel is the fact that Christ became a curse for us. This means Christ took the punishment we deserve on the cross. Why was this the only way of salvation? How does this evoke thanksgiving and praise in your heart?
3. Why does Paul reference the covenant God made with Abraham in his argument (verses 15-18)? How does God’s faithfulness shape your thoughts, actions, and life?
4. Where else in the Scriptures do you find examples of God’s faithfulness?
5. How do you specifically struggle with pride? How does grace counteract your pride?