Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ. (Galatians 3:16)
Many people focus on the law and its requirements, but it’s essential to understand the law’s purpose. Galatians 3:19 explains that the law was added because of transgressions until Christ came. The Greek word prostithemi used here means additionally placed, indicating that the law temporarily addressed our continued transgressions or violations (parabasis in Greek).The law was a guardian to help mankind make the right decisions and live a life pleasing to God until God’s promise was fulfilled through Jesus. God made the promise to Eve that her seed would crush the head of the enemy. Many years later, God promised Abraham that Christ would come from His seed.
The law was necessary to curb sin and prepare the way for the Messiah, but it was never the ultimate solution. Paul explained how the law was a tutor that led us to Jesus' ministry. Christ is the fulfillment of the promise, the only way of salvation that changes old sinners into new creatures of righteousness.
When we grasp that Christ is the fulfillment of the promise, we transform our understanding of the Old Testament law. The promises made to Abraham find their ultimate expression in Jesus, who brings the totality of Abraham's blessings to all who believe.
Practical Application
Consider all of the blessings of Abraham today. Every blessing God promised Abraham is now yours to claim as a believer. Declare those promises and remind yourself of the life that you are called to live in Christ.
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