Grace and Law in Galations by Ps Michael Podhaczky

This powerful little letter centres upon the Galatian believers being free in Christ. Contrary to the bondage that the law (works) had demanded of them, Paul’s writings revealed their freedom under the new covenant of God’s sovereign grace. Paul called their attention to the truth that salvation as a believer (including their continual walk) was solely in Christ, by the power of the Holy Spirit alone. It was not by faith in Christ, in addition to keeping of the law. They were to remain firm and stand in the freedom that they had already received; no longer coming under the Law of Moses.

Paul pointed out that the only law that was relevant was the law of love, by which the Law of Moses has been fulfilled (Gal 5:14). The Law of Moses only cultivated the lust of the flesh with its fruit (Gal 5:13–21). Instead, they should walk in the power of the Spirit; bearing spiritual and God-glorifying fruit (Gal 5:22–26).

Paul pointed out that Jesus Christ was the only source of their acceptance with the Father. They could not add anything to this since justification is by faith in Christ Jesus, not by the works of the law (Gal 2:16). As far as Paul was concerned, they were already a changed people due to what Christ had done. This is why Paul said that anyone preaching a difference gospel was under the curse of God (Gal 1:6-10).

So, let me encourage you to walk in the power of the Spirit, bearing spiritual fruit. Being justified is not simply an escape from sin; it is also deliverance from sin. That brings a new standing as a child of God, with a clean break from the evil that had previously rendered your future hopeless. Jesus’ sacrifice has lifted you to a place of righteousness and merit with the Father. Faith is the instrument that draws you into communion with Him.