Galatians 3:2

KJV

This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?

KJV (with Strong's)

This {G5124} only {G3440} would {G2309} I learn {G3129} of {G575} you {G5216}, Received ye {G2983} the Spirit {G4151} by {G1537} the works {G2041} of the law {G3551}, or {G2228} by {G1537} the hearing {G189} of faith {G4102}?

Complete Jewish Bible

I want to know from you just this one thing: did you receive the Spirit by legalistic observance of Torah commands or by trusting in what you heard and being faithful to it?

Berean Standard Bible

I would like to learn just one thing from you: Did you receive the Spirit by works of the law, or by hearing with faith?

American Standard Version

This only would I learn from you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In Galatians 3:2, the Apostle Paul confronts the Galatian believers with a penetrating rhetorical question, forcing them to recall the undeniable spiritual experience of receiving the Holy Spirit. He challenges their wavering commitment to the gospel of grace, pressing them to acknowledge whether their initial reception of God's Spirit came through adherence to the "works of the law" or through simply "the hearing of faith." This verse serves as a foundational pillar in Paul's argument for justification by faith alone, directly contrasting human effort with divine grace.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed at the beginning of Paul's impassioned and direct appeal to the Galatian churches, immediately following his declaration of astonishment at their swift departure from the true gospel in [Galatians 1:6](/galatians/1-6 "Paul's Astonishment at the Galatians' Deviation") and his sharp rebuke in [Galatians 3:1](/galatians/3-1 "Paul Calls the Galatians Foolish"). Having established his apostolic authority and the singular truth of the gospel in chapters 1 and 2, Paul now pivots to a direct challenge to the Galatians' own experience. He moves from theological exposition to personal recollection, using a rhetorical question to expose the inconsistency of their current leanings toward legalism. The question in [Galatians 3:2](/galatians/3-2 "Galatians 3:2 - The Source of the Spirit") is designed to be self-evident, setting the stage for his subsequent arguments that the Law was not given to justify but to reveal sin, and that righteousness comes through faith in Christ.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The churches in Galatia, likely located in the Roman province of Galatia in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), were predominantly Gentile converts. After their initial joyful reception of the gospel preached by Paul, they were infiltrated by "Judaizers"—Jewish Christians who insisted that Gentile believers must be circumcised and observe the Mosaic Law to be truly saved and righteous before God. This teaching directly contradicted Paul's message of salvation by grace through faith alone. The cultural context was one where adherence to ancestral customs and religious rituals (like circumcision, dietary laws, and Sabbath observance) was deeply ingrained, particularly for those of Jewish background, and was being imposed upon new Gentile converts. Paul's letter directly addresses this theological crisis, which threatened to undermine the very essence of Christian freedom and the inclusiveness of the gospel.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several major theological themes central to Paul's letter to the Galatians and indeed to the entire New Testament. Foremost is the theme of **Justification by Faith vs. Works of the Law**, which is the core argument of the epistle. Paul unequivocally asserts that righteousness before God is a gift received through faith in Christ, not an achievement earned by human effort or adherence to legal codes, as he elaborates in [Romans 3:28](/romans/3-28 "Justification by Faith, Not Works"). Another critical theme is the **Role and Reception of the Holy Spirit**. Paul points to the undeniable presence of the Spirit among them as evidence that God's power and presence are bestowed through faith, not through legalistic observance. This highlights the Spirit as the seal and guarantor of the new covenant, accessible to all who believe, as promised in [Galatians 3:14](/galatians/3-14 "The Promise of the Spirit Through Faith"). Finally, the verse underscores the **Simplicity and Sufficiency of the Gospel**, emphasizing that salvation and the indwelling Spirit are God's gracious provisions, accessed solely through belief in Jesus Christ and His finished work, without any additional human performance or ritualistic requirements.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Received (Greek, _lambánō'_):** From G2983, meaning "to take (in very many applications, literally and figuratively (properly objective or active, to get hold of; whereas δέχομαι is rather subjective or passive, to have offered to one; while αἱρέομαι is more violent, to seize or remove)):--accept, + be amazed, assay, attain, bring, X when I call, catch, come on (X unto), + forget, have, hold, obtain, receive (X after), take (away, up)." In this context, it emphasizes the active reception or appropriation of the Spirit by the Galatians. It denotes a tangible, personal experience of "getting hold of" the Spirit, rather than a mere passive occurrence.
* **Works (Greek, _érgon'_):** From G2041, meaning "from a primary (but obsolete) (to work); toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act:--deed, doing, labour, work." This term refers to human deeds, efforts, or observances, particularly those prescribed by the Mosaic Law. Paul uses it to denote any human performance or achievement aimed at establishing one's own righteousness or gaining God's favor, which he consistently contrasts with God's grace.
* **Hearing (Greek, _akoḗ'_):** From G189, meaning "from ἀκούω; hearing (the act, the sense or the thing heard):--audience, ear, fame, which ye heard, hearing, preached, report, rumor." In the phrase "hearing of faith," it signifies the act of listening to and internalizing the message of the gospel, the preached word about Christ. It implies a receptive and obedient ear that responds to the divine message with belief, rather than a performance-based approach to salvation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"This only would I learn of you":** Paul begins with a direct, almost challenging, inquiry. The phrase "this only" (G5124 _toûto mónon_) underscores the singular, critical point he wishes to establish. He is not seeking general information but rather a specific, self-incriminating answer that will expose the flaw in their current theological direction. This is a pointed appeal to their own spiritual memory and experience.
* **"Received ye the Spirit":** This is the core of Paul's question, appealing to an undeniable, shared experience among the Galatian believers. The reception of the Holy Spirit was a powerful, transformative reality for early Christians, often accompanied by demonstrable manifestations (e.g., prophecy, tongues, miraculous power). Paul assumes their experience of the Spirit is real and serves as irrefutable evidence of God's work among them. The Spirit's presence is the sign of true conversion and inclusion in God's new covenant people.
* **"by the works of the law":** This clause presents the first of two contrasting options. "Works of the law" (G2041 _érgon_ and G3551 _nómos_) refers to the observances and requirements of the Mosaic Law, such as circumcision, dietary regulations, and Sabbath keeping. Paul's question implies that it is absurd to believe that the Spirit was received through such human efforts, which were incapable of imparting righteousness or life.
* **"or by the hearing of faith?":** This clause offers the second, correct option. "Hearing of faith" (G189 _akoḗ_ and G4102 _pístis_) refers to the act of hearing the gospel message (the "preaching of faith") and responding to it with belief and trust. Paul asserts that the Spirit was received not through legalistic performance but through a simple, receptive act of faith in Christ and His saving work, which was the message they initially heard and embraced.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several powerful literary devices in [Galatians 3:2](/galatians/3-2 "Galatians 3:2 - The Source of the Spirit") to drive home his point. The most prominent is the **Rhetorical Question**. Paul does not expect a verbal answer from the Galatians; rather, the question is designed to force them to internally acknowledge the obvious truth: they received the Spirit through faith, not through works. This device serves to highlight the absurdity of their current legalistic leanings by appealing to their own undeniable past experience. Closely related is **Juxtaposition** or **Antithesis**, as Paul starkly contrasts "the works of the law" with "the hearing of faith." This sharp dichotomy underscores the fundamental difference between two mutually exclusive paths to righteousness and the reception of the Spirit. Finally, Paul uses an **Appeal to Experience**, grounding his theological argument in the Galatians' personal spiritual history. By reminding them of how they initially received the Holy Spirit, he provides an irrefutable, experiential basis for his argument against the Judaizers' teachings.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Galatians 3:2 stands as a theological cornerstone, articulating the fundamental principle that the Holy Spirit, and by extension, salvation and righteousness, are received solely through faith in Jesus Christ, not through human effort or adherence to the Mosaic Law. This verse underscores the radical nature of God's grace, emphasizing that our standing with God is a gift, freely given and freely received, rather than something earned. It highlights the Spirit's role as the divine agent who indwells believers upon their initial act of faith, sealing them into the new covenant and empowering them for new life. This truth liberates believers from the burden of legalism, pointing them to the finished work of Christ as the sole basis for their acceptance before God.

* [Romans 3:28](/romans/3-28 "Romans 3:28 - Justification by Faith")
* [Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8-9 "Ephesians 2:8-9 - Saved by Grace Through Faith")
* [Acts 2:38](/acts/2-38 "Acts 2:38 - Receiving the Holy Spirit")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Galatians 3:2 serves as a timeless corrective for all who might drift from the simplicity and power of the gospel of grace. In an age where self-improvement and performance are often lauded, it is easy for believers to subtly shift from relying on God's grace to trusting in their own efforts—whether through rigorous spiritual disciplines, moral uprightness, or adherence to man-made rules—as a means to earn God's favor or maintain their spiritual standing. Paul's question forces us to reflect on the very beginning of our spiritual journey: how did we first experience God's presence and power? Was it by striving, or by simply believing the good news of Jesus Christ? This verse calls us to continually return to that foundational truth, reminding us that the Holy Spirit's indwelling, empowerment, and guidance are not rewards for our performance but gifts received through an ongoing posture of faith. It encourages us to live in the freedom that comes from knowing we are fully accepted and loved by God, not because of what we do, but because of what Christ has done.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Galatians 3:2 challenge any tendency in my own life to rely on my performance or good deeds for my standing with God?**
* **What does it mean to "receive the Spirit by the hearing of faith" in my daily walk, beyond initial conversion?**
* **In what ways might I be subtly falling back into "works of the law" thinking, even if not explicitly adhering to Mosaic rituals?**
* **How can remembering the truth of this verse deepen my appreciation for God's grace and the finished work of Christ?**

### FAQ

**What are "works of the law" that Paul refers to?**

Answer: "Works of the law" (Greek: _érgon nomou_) refers to the various commands, rituals, and observances prescribed by the Mosaic Law given to Israel, such as circumcision, dietary restrictions, and Sabbath keeping. In the context of Galatians, Paul uses this phrase to denote any human effort, obedience, or performance aimed at establishing one's own righteousness or earning favor with God. The Judaizers in Galatia were insisting that Gentile believers needed to observe these works, particularly circumcision, in addition to faith in Christ, to be truly righteous or saved. Paul argues vehemently against this, asserting that no one can be justified by performing the works of the law, as [Galatians 2:16](/galatians/2-16 "Galatians 2:16 - Justification by Faith, Not Works") makes clear.

**What does "the hearing of faith" mean in this context?**

Answer: "The hearing of faith" (Greek: _akoḗ pisteōs_) refers to the act of hearing and receiving the message of the gospel—the good news about Jesus Christ and His saving work—and responding to it with belief and trust. It emphasizes that salvation and the reception of the Holy Spirit come not through human performance or legalistic striving, but through a receptive, believing response to the preached word of faith. It's about trusting in what God has done through Christ, rather than relying on what we can do. This phrase highlights the passive reception of God's gift through active belief, as opposed to an active earning through works. It underscores that the Holy Spirit is given freely to those who believe the gospel, as exemplified by the early church's experience in [Acts 10:44-45](/acts/10-44-45 "Acts 10:44-45 - The Spirit Poured Out on Gentiles").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Galatians 3:2 finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the reality that the Holy Spirit is the promised gift of the New Covenant, poured out upon believers because of Christ's finished work, not because of human adherence to law. The Law, with its demands for "works," could never provide righteousness or the Spirit; it only highlighted humanity's inability to meet God's perfect standard. Christ, however, perfectly fulfilled the Law's righteous requirements on our behalf, becoming "the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes" ([Romans 10:4](/romans/10-4 "Romans 10:4 - Christ the End of the Law")). His atoning death on the cross and victorious resurrection secured the very blessing that the Law could not deliver: the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. It is through faith in this crucified and risen Christ that we are justified and receive the Spirit, who now empowers us to live a life pleasing to God, not under the burden of legalistic performance, but in the freedom and power of grace. The Spirit is the down payment of our inheritance in Christ ([Ephesians 1:13-14](/ephesians/1-13-14 "Ephesians 1:13-14 - Sealed with the Spirit")), a direct result of Christ's ascension and His sending of the Comforter, as He promised ([John 16:7](/john/16-7 "John 16:7 - Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit")). Thus, the reception of the Spirit by "the hearing of faith" is a direct testament to Christ's all-sufficient work and His ongoing reign.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Romans 10:16

But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?

Romans 10:17

So then faith [cometh] by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

Galatians 3:14

That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

Acts 15:8

And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as [he did] unto us;

Galatians 3:5

He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, [doeth he it] by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?

Ephesians 1:13

In whom ye also [trusted], after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,

Ephesians 1:14

Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.