What is the meaning of Galatians 3:25? Now that faith has come - Paul is speaking of the arrival of saving faith centered in Jesus Christ—the trust in His finished work that justifies sinners (Galatians 3:22-24; Romans 3:22). - This “coming” is tied to the historical reality of Christ’s death and resurrection (Romans 4:25) and the personal moment each believer believes the gospel (Ephesians 2:8-9). - Faith ushers believers into full sonship, no longer merely anticipating promise but living in it (Galatians 3:26; John 1:12). - The shift is from a system that exposed sin to a relationship that provides righteousness (Romans 1:17; Hebrews 11:1). We are no longer under a guardian - The “guardian” (paidagógos) was the Mosaic Law functioning like a tutor over minors (Galatians 3:23-24). • It pointed out sin (Romans 7:7). • It restrained wrongdoing (1 Timothy 1:8-9). • It foreshadowed Christ through sacrifices and ceremonies (Colossians 2:16-17). - Now, in Christ, believers are released from the Law’s custody and condemnation (Romans 6:14; 7:6). - Freedom from the guardian is not license to sin; the indwelling Spirit now leads and empowers holiness (Galatians 5:16-18; Titus 2:11-12). summary Galatians 3:25 celebrates the transition from Law-bound tutelage to Spirit-empowered sonship. Faith in Christ has arrived, so the believer no longer lives under the Law’s guardianship but enjoys the full rights and responsibilities of God’s redeemed children. |