What does "Scripture imprisoned everything under sin" mean for our understanding of sin? Key Verse in Context “Scripture has locked up all things under sin, so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe.” — Galatians 3:22 Defining “Imprisoned Under Sin” • “Locked up” pictures a jail cell—total captivity. • Scripture declares that every human being, without exception, is confined within this prison (Romans 3:9, 23). • Sin here is not merely acts we commit; it is a ruling power that chains the heart (John 8:34). The Purpose of the Imprisonment • To expose our helplessness: the Law diagnoses but cannot cure (Romans 7:10–13). • To prevent self-righteous escape routes: no loophole remains (James 2:10). • To funnel all hope toward one door—faith in Christ (Romans 11:32). Our Universal Condition • Jews and Gentiles alike share the same cell block (Romans 3:19). • Moral, religious, irreligious—none get preferential treatment (Isaiah 64:6). • The rebellion traces back to Adam; his guilt spread to every descendant (Romans 5:12). The Law’s Role in Highlighting Sin • Acts as the iron bars: it defines boundaries we cannot keep (Galatians 3:24). • Increases sin’s visibility: “Through the law we become conscious of sin” (Romans 3:20). • Shuts every mouth: no defense left, only confession (1 John 1:8). Freedom Offered Through Faith in Christ • Christ fulfills the Law’s demands and pays the penalty (Galatians 3:13). • Faith in Him unlocks the cell, not by parole but by full pardon (John 8:36). • Believers move from prisoners to heirs: “You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:26). Implications for Daily Life • Humility: we remember where we came from—chained sinners set free (Ephesians 2:1–5). • Gratitude: salvation Isaiah 100 % mercy, 0 % personal merit (Titus 3:5). • Urgency: every person we meet is either still imprisoned or already liberated—there is no middle ground (2 Corinthians 5:20). |
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