How does Galatians 3:20 illustrate the role of a mediator in God's covenant? Setting the Scene - Paul has been contrasting the promise given to Abraham with the Law delivered at Sinai (Galatians 3:15-19). - Verse 20 sits in that flow, emphasizing the place of a mediator: “A mediator is unnecessary for only one party; but God is One.” (Galatians 3:20) What a Mediator Does - Stands between two parties who are not directly in fellowship. - Carries messages, terms, or requirements from one side to the other. - Ensures both sides are heard and the covenant is ratified. The Mosaic Covenant and Mediation - Delivered “through angels by a mediator” (Galatians 3:19). - Moses acted as that mediator (Exodus 20:18-19; Deuteronomy 5:5). - Israel’s sinfulness required someone to bridge the gap: • Israel feared direct contact with the Holy God. • The Law came with conditions, blessings, and curses (Deuteronomy 28). - This arrangement pictures distance: God—angels—Moses—people. The Abrahamic Promise: God Acts Alone - God “cut” the covenant with Abraham by Himself (Genesis 15:17-18). - No mediator stood between; God swore unilaterally. - Galatians 3:20 highlights that unique oneness: when God alone pledges, no intermediary is needed. Why Paul Points This Out - The Law’s mediated nature underscores its temporary, preparatory purpose. - The promise predates the Law and rests solely on God’s faithfulness. - Believers inherit through promise, not through Law-keeping (Galatians 3:18). Christ the Ultimate Mediator - “There is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.” (1 Timothy 2:5) - Jesus fulfills both roles: • Represents God to humanity (John 1:18). • Represents humanity to God through His substitutionary death (Hebrews 9:15). - He brings the mediated system to completion, giving direct access to the Father (Ephesians 2:18). Key Takeaways - Galatians 3:20 shows the Law required a go-between because two estranged parties were involved. - God’s covenant of promise is different: God alone guarantees it, so no human mediator is required. - In Christ, the believer enjoys the best of both truths: • The promise remains secure because God Himself established it. • The mediator is perfect and eternal, leading believers into unhindered fellowship with God. Living It Out Today - Rest confidently in the unwavering promise God made and fulfilled in Christ. - Approach God boldly, knowing the perfect Mediator has removed every barrier (Hebrews 4:16). |
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