Paul states that the law's purpose is to reveal sin, not to provide justification, which comes solely through faith in Christ.
In Galatians, Paul argues that the law serves as a tutor, guiding us to the understanding of our sinful nature and need for a Savior. Its role is not to provide justification or righteousness but to expose our inability to meet God's standards. This framework is crucial for understanding the gospel. If justification were attainable by the law, it would negate the necessity of Christ’s sacrifice. Instead, Paul asserts that righteousness comes through faith in Jesus Christ alone (Galatians 2:16), reinforcing that salvation is a gift of grace rather than a reward for adherence to the law. This profound truth frees believers from the weight of legalism, allowing them to rest wholly in the sufficiency of Christ's atoning work.
Commentary