Cambridge Greek Testament Commentary

Galatians 3:15-18

15–18. The relation of the promise to the Law; the latter cannot hinder the former

“Having shown that faith is older than the Law, he teaches again that the Law cannot become a hindrance to the divine promises” (Theodoret).
(Galatians 3:15) Brethren, I use human imagery—terms understood by all—and though they come short of the reality I say even a man’s disposition of his goods when confirmed no one else sets aside or adds to. (Galatians 3:16) But (for I turn to higher things) to Abraham the many promises were solemnly spoken and to his seed. Yet notice how the very form of the word “seed” points to other than the individual descendants. It sums up all in one Person, even Christ. (Galatians 3:17) I mean this by the figure of speech employed in Galatians 3:15 : a Disposition confirmed long since by God the Law that has come into existence 430 years afterwards cannot annul, so as to make the promise inoperative. (Galatians 3:18) For (Law and Promise being incompatible) if the inheritance is from the Law it is no more of promise. But in fact to Abraham God has given the inheritance by promise, and the gift stands, a gift of God.

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Cambridge Greek Testament Commentary

Galatians 3:15-18

Old Testament

New Testament