Paul wrote in Galatians 3:12. these words: “And the law is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them.”

By “law” Paul  means “the legislation” God gave Moses in the wilderness, at Mount Sinai. (The Greek noun “law” translates “nomos,” indicating something “established, a custom, an act regularly done.” The way the Jews tried to live for centuries! From Moses to Jesus! In fact, many still do try!)

And by “faith” Paul means simple “trust” in Jesus, particularly as “Saviour.” (The Greek noun “faith” translates “pistis,” originally meaning “a deep conviction that something is true!”)

And these two entities, “law” and “faith,” are mutually exclusive … as far as salvation is concerned! This Point is a major facet in Paul’s theology, God-given theology! (They cannot coexist as means to salvation!)

The negative conjunction “not” is “ouk” in Greek, very strong indeed! Definitely not!

Then Paul draws a conclusion … one of many flowing from his powerfully analytical mind!

” … but, The man that doeth them shall live in them.”

The man (or woman) that “does” the law (“obeys” and “follows” and “treasures,” making it the “means of salvation”) must “live” by that law!

Must comply with the law (of Moses) 100% … totally!

He cannot deviate one iota!

And the truth of that matter is … no one, not a single human being … has ever been able to obey the law to that extent!

Oh, what a dark situation!

In fact, what Paul just wrote being accurate … salvation, eternal life, would seem to appear HOPELESS!

The law can only condemn us, because we can’t live up to its standards!

It invariably finds us guilty!

Be sure and read tomorrow’s Lesson.

It, our verse then, gives us the Solution to this whole issue!

Hint: He is JESUS!

Thank God!

— Dr. Mike Bagwell

(What man could not do, God in sending His Son Jesus … absolutely did!)