Those who believe in Messiah, but keep the law, how can we explain Galatians 4:21-31?

Question

What does that mean in light of keeping the law? Please tell me how you know. Thanks!

Maybe my question is confusing. I believe we should keep the law, but a friend who doesn't pointed to these verses in Galatians. I am trying to practice apologetics, but I have no idea how to explain these verses in light of my belief that I should keep the law.

Answer 1

It shows that the religion invented by Paul is one that Jesus and his disciples (who did keep the law) would never recognize.

Answer 2

Paul uses the historical narrative to illustrate his point for the benefit of the galatians who were tempted to place themself under the burden of human law (not the God's Law). Paul ilustrates the deep distinction and distance between grace and law, between the children of the promise and the subject of legalism. Paul gives the historical fact on this verse as a symbolic meaning and uses them to illustrate the already established doctrine of justifications by faith. The two woman (Sarah and Hagar) symbolize the two covenant, law and grace. Hagar represents the mosaic covenant of law and bondage and is the mother of the child of the flesh. Sarah represent the Abrahamic covenant of grace and liberty and is the mother of the child of the promise.
Paul mentioned in Galatians 3:24 "Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith"

Answer 3

It is reaffirming the classic Christian teachings, set forth from the Messiah himself. You have misunderstood the passage. It is not an exhortation NOT to follow the Law, but a caution that the Law is not enough by itself to effect salvation; thus obediance to the Law is good for the children of Abraham, but it is not that which saves; what saves is faith in God, and this is manifested in obediance to the Law. For those grafted onto the tree of life, there is no need for them to take the Law upon themselves, but they are free to do so if they so choose provided that they do not lose sight of the true core of salvation.

Answer 4

Notice all the times it says G-d GAVE us the Law??
When have you noticed G-d giving out bad things??

I have had more peace than ever since I chose to observe the law. I know it makes me no more righteous than before, and I am save through Jesus blood of atonement. However, I need the Law as a guideline to live properly. I dont judge people by it, but it helps me survive. Paul also talks about people choosing to observe Law, not to be righteous, but by choice and theres nothing wrong with it.

Also, It helps you thing of G-d. If you must light candles at certian times, prayer, etc, food, etc...etc.... You always hasve Him on the brain. I am much more G-d Centered than I was before I came to the Law.

Hope I helped

Blessings, brother
David

Answer 5

I dont agree with it. I think there is nothing wrong with observing the law. I mean the law is nothing negative. Paul felt it is a struggle in the heart to follow the law but I don't get this. I mean I do like I see people who goto church every Sunday and have struggles with it and see problems that affect them. Also the standards don't meet all people in a given church. So I think if you like and love the law there is nothing wrong. I do agree if it offers struggle in you to not follow the law.

Answer 6

Paul uses a story from the Old Testament to show that we should not live in bondage to the law. He cites facts from Abraham's life then tells the symbolic meaning of those facts and how they apply to us.

Answer 7

Suzie,
As Christians we are to obey the spiritual commands that God gives us in his word. Allowing the love that he place in our hearts to be our guide through the Holy Spirit. However at the same time we are to obey the laws of Society by obeying those who are in authority over us, such as the Police, the Governor, those in charge over us at work, our parents, our teachers at school, etc. As Christians we are bondservants to Christ but as citizens of this country we are subject to it's rules wether we agree with them or not for God place them over us.

Answer 8

Clearly no one is justified before God by the law, because, "The righteous will live by faith."[d] 12The law is not based on faith; on the contrary, "The man who does these things will live by them."[e] 13Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: "Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree."[f] 14He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit.

we live by faith..

hope that helps..

;D

Answer 9

First of all, frankly speaking, I am not too keen on Pauline doctrines and/or his Epistles to the early Churches...

Having said that, my take on the verses you cite appears to be an appeal to reach out to the Jews in Galatia by recalling to them --based on their lineage through Sarah [freewoman], rather than Hagar [bondwoman/servant/slave?]-- that they belong to the "chosen people" of God... and therefore should LISTEN to his [Paul's] entreaty to them.

Of course, I could be wrong on that aspect, too. So take it with a grain of salt.

Peace be with you.

Answer 10

it means to seay that if you dont believe in GOD, you copuld do whatever you wanted to do but when times comes for you to be givenb the penalty, you will suffer the consequece of your doing while those who believes in GOD and are not govern by bad spirit, will b e blessed and will receive mercy from GOD