Galatians 3:10

For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed [is] every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.

For {G1063} as many as {G3745} are {G1526} of {G1537} the works {G2041} of the law {G3551} are {G1526} under {G5259} the curse {G2671}: for {G1063} it is written {G1125}, Cursed {G1944} is every one {G3956} that {G3739} continueth {G1696} not {G3756} in {G1722} all things {G3956} which {G3588} are written {G1125} in {G1722} the book {G975} of the law {G3551} to do {G4160} them {G846}.

For everyone who depends on legalistic observance of Torah commands lives under a curse, since it is written, “Cursed is everyone who does not keep on doing everything written in the Scroll of the Torah.”

All who rely on works of the law are under a curse. For it is written: “Cursed is everyone who does not continue to do everything written in the Book of the Law.”

For as many as are of the works of the law are under a curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one who continueth not in all things that are written in the book of the law, to do them.

Context

Galatians 3:10 is a pivotal verse in Paul's letter to the churches in Galatia, where he passionately defends the doctrine of justification by faith in Jesus Christ, not by works of the Mosaic Law. Paul is directly confronting "Judaizers," who were teaching that Gentile Christians needed to be circumcised and adhere to Jewish ceremonial laws to be truly saved. This verse serves as a powerful counter-argument, asserting that attempting to gain righteousness through perfect obedience to the Law actually places one under a curse, rather than securing blessing or salvation. It follows Paul's argument that Abraham was justified by faith, not by works (Galatians 3:6).

Key Themes

  • The Curse of the Law: The verse explicitly states that those who rely on "works of the law" are "under the curse." This is because the Law demands perfect, continuous obedience. As no human can perfectly fulfill all its requirements, the Law inevitably condemns.
  • Human Inability: It highlights humanity's inherent inability to achieve righteousness through their own efforts. The standard of the Law is absolute perfection, which fallen humanity cannot meet.
  • The Purpose of the Law: Paul's argument here (and throughout Galatians and Romans) is that the Law was not given as a means of salvation, but rather to reveal sin and demonstrate humanity's need for a Savior. It acts as a "schoolmaster" leading to Christ (Galatians 3:24).
  • Justification by Faith Alone: By showing the futility and danger of seeking righteousness through the Law, Paul underscores the necessity and sufficiency of God's grace received through faith in Christ.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "works of the law" (Greek: ergōn nomou) refers to the ceremonial and moral commandments given through Moses, particularly as a means of earning God's favor or salvation. Paul distinguishes this from genuine, Spirit-led obedience that flows from a transformed heart. The "curse" (Greek: katarā) is a divine pronouncement of condemnation and judgment. Paul directly quotes from Deuteronomy 27:26, emphasizing that the Old Testament itself pronounced a curse on anyone who failed to uphold "all things" written in the Law, highlighting its impossible standard for fallen humanity.

Practical Application

Galatians 3:10 is profoundly relevant for understanding the nature of salvation. It teaches us that:

  • Self-Effort is Futile: We cannot earn our salvation or God's favor through our own good deeds, religious rituals, or perfect adherence to rules. Any attempt to do so places us under a curse because we will inevitably fall short.
  • Humility is Essential: This verse fosters humility, recognizing our complete dependence on God's grace. It shatters any illusion of self-righteousness.
  • Grace is Paramount: It drives us to appreciate the immeasurable value of Jesus Christ's sacrifice, who redeemed us from the curse of the Law by becoming a curse for us. Salvation is a gift, received by faith, not earned by works (Ephesians 2:8-9).
  • Freedom in Christ: Understanding this truth liberates believers from the burden of trying to constantly prove themselves worthy before God. Our standing is secure in Christ.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Deuteronomy 27:26

    Cursed [be] he that confirmeth not [all] the words of this law to do them. And all the people shall say, Amen.

  • Romans 8:7

    Because the carnal mind [is] enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.

  • Romans 3:19

    ¶ Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God.

  • Romans 3:20

    Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law [is] the knowledge of sin.

  • James 2:9

    But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors.

  • James 2:11

    For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law.

  • Jeremiah 11:3

    And say thou unto them, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel; Cursed [be] the man that obeyeth not the words of this covenant,

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