Galatians 3:1-9

“Know then that it is those of faith who are the sons of Abraham” (v7). False teachers were encouraging the Gentile Galatians to begin obeying the Mosaic Law, including circumcision. Paul showed them that even in the Old Testament, no one was ever justified by following the Law, but instead, those who were “counted righteous” were people of faith, like Abraham. In fact, God announced the good news to Abraham that through his descendent, “all the nations” would be included in God’s blessings by faith (v8).

“Did you receive the Spirit through the works of the law or by hearing with faith?” (v2). We receive God’s gifts of forgiveness, cleansing, and new life not by our efforts, but by faith.