Galatians 2:16
Verse
Context
Paul Confronts Cephas
15We who are Jews by birth and not Gentile “sinners”16know that a man is not justified by works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have believed in Christ Jesus, that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified.
Sermons
Charles Stanley
David Wilkerson
Manley Beasley
J. Vernon McGee
C.H. Spurgeon
Don McClure
Chuck SmithSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Knowing that a man is not justified - See the notes on Rom 1:17; Rom 3:24 (note), Rom 3:27 (note); Rom 8:3 (note). And see on Act 13:38 (note) and Act 13:39 (note), in which places the subject of this verse is largely discussed. Neither the works of the Jewish law, nor of any other law, could justify any man; and if justification or pardon could not have been attained in some other way, the world must have perished. Justification by faith, in the boundless mercy of God, is as reasonable as it is Scriptural and necessary.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
not justified by the works of the law--as the GROUND of justification. "The works of the law" are those which have the law for their object--which are wrought to fulfil the law [ALFORD]. but by--Translate, "But only (in no other way save) through faith in Jesus Christ," as the MEAN and instrument of justification. Jesus Christ--In the second case, read with the oldest manuscripts, "Christ Jesus," the Messiahship coming into prominence in the case of Jewish believers, as "Jesus" does in the first case, referring to the general proposition. justified by the faith of Christ--that is, by Christ, the object of faith, as the ground of our justification. for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified--He rests his argument on this as an axiom in theology, referring to Psa 143:2, "Moses and Jesus Christ; The law and the promise; Doing and believing; Works and faith; Wages and the gift; The curse and the blessing--are represented as diametrically opposed" [BENGEL]. The moral law is, in respect to justification, more legal than the ceremonial, which was an elementary and preliminary Gospel: So "Sinai" (Gal 4:24), which is more famed for the Decalogue than for the ceremonial law, is made pre-eminently the type of legal bondage. Thus, justification by the law, whether the moral or ceremonial, is excluded (Rom 3:20).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law,.... That is, Peter, Paul, Barnabas, and other believing Jews knew this, and that from the law itself, which requires perfect and sinless obedience, and accuses, holds guilty, and adjudges to condemnation and death for the least failure, both as to matter or manner of duty; and from the prophets, which declare that by the deeds of the law no flesh can be justified in the sight of God, and who bear witness to the doctrines of remission of sin, and justification by the righteousness of Christ; and from the Gospel, in which this truth is most clearly revealed; and from the illumination of the blessed Spirit, who led them into all truth; and from the revelation of Jesus Christ they were favoured with; and from their own experience, being fully convinced of the exceeding sinfulness of sin, the insufficiency of their own righteousness, and of the necessity, suitableness, and fulness of the righteousness of Christ. By "the works of the law" are meant, not only obedience to the ceremonial law, though this is included, but also to the moral law; for it can hardly be thought, that the men the apostle opposes could ever dream of justification by their compliance with the rituals of the ceremonial law if they believed there could be no justification by their obedience to the moral law; for if there is no justification by the latter, there can be none by the former: the words are therefore to be taken in the largest sense, as rejecting all works of the law, of whatsoever kind, from justification in the sight of God; and such works are designed, as are performed by sinful men in and of themselves, otherwise men are justified by the works of the law as performed by Christ in their room and stead, but not by any as performed by themselves, for at best they are very imperfect, and so cannot justify; they are opposed to the grace of God, to which the justification of a sinner is always ascribed, and therefore cannot be by works; such a scheme would disannul the death of Christ, and promote boasting in men, and indeed is impracticable and impossible: but by the faith of Jesus Christ; not by that faith, which Christ, as man, had in God, who promised him help, succour, and assistance, and for which he, as man, trusted in him, and exercised faith upon him; but that faith of which he is the object, author, and finisher; and not by that as a cause, for faith has no causal influence on the justification of a sinner; it is not the efficient cause, for it is God that justifies; nor the moving cause, or which induces God to justify any, for that is his own free grace and good will; nor the meritorious or procuring cause, for that is the obedience and bloodshed of Christ; nor is faith the matter of justification; it is not a justifying righteousness; it is a part of sanctification; it is imperfect; as an act it is a man's own, and will not continue for ever in its present form, nature, and use; and is always distinguished from the righteousness of God, by which we are justified, which is perfect, is another's, and will last for ever. Men are not justified by faith, either as an habit, or an act; not by it as an habit or principle, this would be to confound justification and sanctification; nor as an act, for as such it is a man's own, and then justification would be by a man's works, contrary to the Scripture: but faith is to be taken either objectively, as it relates to Christ, the object of it, and his justifying righteousness; or as it is a means of receiving and apprehending Christ's righteousness; the discovery of it is made to faith; that grace discerns the excellency and suitableness of it, approves of it, rejects a man's own, lays hold on this, and rejoices in it: even we have believed in Jesus Christ; we who are Jews by nature, being fully apprized that there is no justification by the works of the law, but by the righteousness of Christ, received by faith, have quited all confidence in our own works, and are come to Christ, and believe in him, not only as the Messiah, but as the Lord our righteousness: that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law; not that faith, as before observed, has any causal influence on justification. These Jews did not believe in Christ, in order by their believing to procure their justification before God, and acceptance with him, but that they might receive, by faith, this blessing from the Lord in their own conscience, and enjoy the comfort of it, and all that spiritual peace which results from it, and which they could not find in the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified; reference seems to be had to Psa 143:2 and contains a reason why these believing Jews relinquished Moses in his law, in whom they formerly trusted, and looked to, and depended on for their justification, because that by obedience to the law of works no sinful mortal man can be justified in the sight of God,
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:16 Jews and Gentiles alike are sinners; the Good News requires both Jews and Gentiles to acknowledge that they are sinful (see Rom 2:1-5; 3:1-20) and in need of God’s grace (Rom 3:21-26). Peter later demonstrated his agreement with this message (Acts 15:7-11).
Galatians 2:16
Paul Confronts Cephas
15We who are Jews by birth and not Gentile “sinners”16know that a man is not justified by works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have believed in Christ Jesus, that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A Satanic Deception Regarding Salvation
By Charles Stanley8.5K44:25Satanic DeceptionMAT 7:23JHN 1:29JHN 10:15GAL 2:16EPH 2:8TIT 2:11TIT 3:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the true source of authority in life, death, and morality. He asserts that the final authority is found in the Bible, and any other opinions or societal norms are irrelevant. The preacher then addresses the belief that salvation can be earned through good works, providing several biblical references that contradict this notion. He goes on to give ten reasons why this argument is flawed, emphasizing that salvation is solely through the grace of God and cannot be achieved or maintained through works.
Beware of Dogs - Part 1
By David Wilkerson6.3K15:04ROM 3:28ROM 11:6GAL 1:6GAL 2:16GAL 3:10GAL 5:1GAL 5:4EPH 2:8PHP 3:2TIT 3:5
In this sermon, the speaker delves into the importance of defending the true gospel of Jesus Christ and warns against false teachings that add human effort to salvation. Paul's strong stance against those who pervert the gospel by promoting works of the flesh over faith in Christ is highlighted. The message emphasizes the danger of legalism and the need to stand firm on the truth that salvation is by grace through faith alone.
Faith That Works
By Manley Beasley3.4K47:49FaithPSA 77:19MAL 3:10MAT 6:33ROM 3:27GAL 2:16HEB 11:6JAS 2:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being properly related to Jesus through faith. He explains that surrendering all and doing what we can afford to do is not difficult, but true faith is tested when we are called to step out into the unknown, without any signs or guidance. The preacher highlights the significance of having a relationship with Jesus and how it is the only way to navigate through life's challenges. He references scriptures from Romans, Galatians, and James to emphasize the importance of staying connected to Jesus.
(Genesis) Genesis 10 Intro
By J. Vernon McGee2.9K04:55GenesisGEN 9:20MAT 6:33MAT 26:41JHN 3:6GAL 2:16In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Noah and his sin of getting drunk. The purpose of this story being recorded is to show the weakness of the flesh and to encourage the children of Israel in their journey to the land of Canaan. The preacher emphasizes that although we may not struggle with the same sin as Noah, we can still be displeasing to God if we live in the flesh. The sermon also touches on the misconception of life and the universe, highlighting the excessive spending on space exploration while neglecting spiritual matters.
Justice Satisfied
By C.H. Spurgeon2.8K41:48AtonementGod's JusticeISA 53:5JHN 3:16ROM 3:27ROM 5:12CO 5:21GAL 2:16EPH 1:7HEB 9:221PE 2:241JN 1:9C.H. Spurgeon delivers a powerful sermon titled 'Justice Satisfied,' emphasizing the profound truth that God's justice, which once stood as a barrier to salvation, has been fully satisfied through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. He explains that while the sinner is right to fear God's justice, it is through Christ's substitutionary death that justice is appeased, allowing God to be both just and the justifier of those who believe. Spurgeon reassures the penitent that their sins can be forgiven if they confess and trust in Christ, as God's justice now advocates for them rather than condemns them. He encourages listeners to approach God with their confessions, reminding them that true faith in Christ leads to salvation and peace with God. The message concludes with a call to seek personal reconciliation with God through sincere confession and faith in Jesus.
All by Faith
By Don McClure2.8K47:12MAT 23:27LUK 18:9JHN 3:16ROM 3:23GAL 2:16EPH 2:8PHP 3:1In this sermon, the speaker reflects on a personal experience with his wife and a can of beans to illustrate a larger point about the nature of relationships. He emphasizes that relationships are not based on performance or fulfilling certain conditions, but rather on commitment and fellowship. The speaker then discusses the significance of circumcision as a sign of righteousness and faith in the story of Abraham. He highlights the danger of turning good things, like prayer, into rules and conditions for blessing, instead emphasizing the importance of relying on God's grace and empowerment.
(Through the Bible) Galatians 1-2
By Chuck Smith2.6K1:20:45MAT 20:26ACT 20:24GAL 1:8GAL 1:13GAL 2:16GAL 2:21In this sermon, the speaker recounts the story of Peter's encounter with Cornelius, a Roman centurion. Cornelius had a vision in which an angel instructed him to send for Peter to learn about the way of God. Peter, despite his initial hesitation due to Jewish customs, went with Cornelius' messengers to his house in Caesarea. There, Peter shared the gospel with Cornelius and his friends, and to his surprise, the Holy Spirit fell upon them, indicating that Gentiles could also receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit. The speaker emphasizes the importance of a loving relationship with God through Jesus, rather than a legalistic approach to following rules. He also highlights the need for humility and servanthood in the church, as taught by Jesus.
Faith vs. Works
By Stephen Kaung2.3K1:13:30FaithGAL 1:23GAL 2:16GAL 2:20GAL 3:2GAL 3:5GAL 3:10GAL 5:6In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the letter to the Galatians and the basics of the gospel of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that the gospel is based on grace, not law, and that good works do not earn eternal life. The preacher also highlights the importance of personal surrender to Christ and how it should inspire a conduct aligned with that surrender. He uses the example of a servant who works all day and then serves his master before eating to illustrate the concept of surrender and the absence of merit in salvation.
(Names of Jehovah) 4. Jehovah Tsidkenu
By Roy Hession2.3K54:14GraceGod's NameRighteousnessISA 61:10JER 23:5ROM 1:17ROM 4:5ROM 10:41CO 1:302CO 5:21GAL 2:16EPH 2:8PHP 3:9Roy Hession emphasizes the significance of the name Jehovah Tsidkenu, meaning 'The Lord Our Righteousness,' as prophesied in Jeremiah 23:5. He explains that this name encapsulates the essence of the Gospel, which offers divine righteousness to those who believe, regardless of their past failures. Hession highlights the importance of recognizing our need for God's grace and the transformative power of accepting Christ as our righteousness. He encourages believers to abandon their struggles for self-righteousness and instead embrace the free gift of righteousness through faith in Jesus. Ultimately, he reassures that true peace and assurance come from understanding that our righteousness is found in Christ alone.
(Through the Bible) Galatians 5-6
By Chuck Smith2.2K1:19:06MAT 22:37GAL 2:16GAL 5:19GAL 6:4GAL 6:61TI 5:18In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the dangers of modern conveniences that distract us from our relationship with God. He warns against wasting time on TV shows and fantasies that take us away from the Lord. The preacher encourages believers to sow to the spirit and not grow weary in doing good, reminding them that they will reap in due season if they do not give up. He also highlights the importance of guarding what we see and hear, as negative influences can have a lasting impact on our minds. The sermon concludes with a reminder that through Christ, believers have been made alive and can experience fellowship with God.
(Through the Bible) Galatians 3
By Chuck Smith2.2K47:48GEN 12:3GEN 22:18HAB 1:2GAL 2:16GAL 3:10GAL 3:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that true belief in God is not just a verbal assent to the truth, but it is demonstrated through actions. He uses the example of a hypothetical earthquake to illustrate this point. The preacher also highlights the impossibility of being justified before God by works, as no one can be perfect. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of faith in God's grace for salvation. The sermon concludes with the reminder that God's blessings come through Jesus Christ and His covenant, and that the law cannot nullify God's promises.
Where Did the Puritans Come From?
By J.I. Packer2.0K49:01MAT 11:28ROM 1:182CO 7:10GAL 2:16EPH 2:8JAS 2:171JN 1:9In this sermon, the speaker discusses the factors that contributed to the distinctive nature of the Protestant movement. He identifies four main sectors that played a role in shaping the movement. The first sector is the legacy of Tyndale, which emphasized the lordship of the Bible and the importance of justified men in covenant with God. The second sector is the legacy of Branson, which prioritized repentance in both words and actions. The third sector is the legacy of Cooper and Frankfurt, which highlighted the reality of God's judgment and blessings throughout history. The fourth sector is the emphasis on the authority of the Bible, with Tyndale stressing the need to subject everything in church and faith to the rule of God's Word.
What Is Justification?
By Tim Knight1.7K1:00:54JustificationLEV 1:1MAT 6:33ROM 3:28ROM 5:12CO 5:21GAL 2:16EPH 2:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of receiving the provision of salvation through Jesus Christ in order to have a relationship with God and enter His kingdom. He highlights that trying to establish our own righteousness will not lead to being a part of God's kingdom. The preacher urges listeners to give their lives to Jesus Christ and draw closer to their Creator. He also discusses the role of the law in driving us to Jesus and the concept of identification and substitution in the Old Testament sacrificial system.
Religion or Relationship
By David Legge1.5K51:59ISA 64:6HAB 2:4LUK 15:25ACT 15:1ROM 5:1GAL 1:6GAL 2:16GAL 3:11HEB 11:6
This sermon delves into the book of Galatians, emphasizing the importance of life in the Spirit and the liberty experienced by Christians. It highlights the dangers of legalism, the significance of faith in Christ alone for salvation and sanctification, and the need to cultivate a personal relationship with God based on grace. The message challenges believers to move beyond performance-based Christianity and embrace a faith-driven life empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Faith and Works - Part 1
By Manley Beasley1.5K1:20:01FaithMAT 6:33ROM 3:23GAL 2:16JAS 2:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of mission work and how it will be given more emphasis in their tape club. They share a specific example of the fallout in Russia where 100,000 Russians were scattered all over the country. The speaker also mentions their ongoing project of rewriting Facebook number two and turning it into a book. They ask for prayers regarding the financial support of the tape club and express gratitude to faithful supporters. The sermon concludes with the question posed by the disciples to Jesus about how to work the works of God.
A Heart Cleansed by Faith
By Ernest O'Neill1.5K33:18ISA 64:6LUK 24:47ROM 3:20ROM 5:8ROM 7:15GAL 2:16COL 3:9In this sermon, the preacher addresses the issue of feeling helpless and unable to overcome personal struggles. He emphasizes that saying "I can't" is tragic because it implies a lack of faith in God's power to help. The preacher explains that when we realize that not doing what we know is right is actually sin against God, it changes our perspective. He encourages listeners to turn away from relying on people, things, and circumstances for their needs and instead depend on God. By putting off the old nature and looking to God for security, the preacher assures that God will fill us with His Holy Spirit and cleanse our hearts.
Prayer- Overflow From Confidence in Christ
By John Piper1.3K03:49ROM 3:222CO 5:21GAL 2:16EPH 2:8PHP 3:9
This sermon emphasizes that the core of the Gospel is receiving and resting in the gift of who Christ is and what He did for us, rather than focusing on our own actions. It highlights the grand exchange where our sins are placed on Christ, and His righteousness is imputed to us, making us 100% acceptable to God solely through Christ. Any attempt to add our own righteousness or good works is considered self-righteousness, and true freedom in the Gospel comes from fully relying on Christ alone.
Paul's Allegory of the Covenants
By Peter Masters1.2K47:03GAL 1:6GAL 2:16GAL 3:10GAL 3:13GAL 4:12GAL 4:22GAL 5:4GAL 6:8GAL 6:14
This sermon delves into the allegory of the two covenants as explained by the Apostle Paul in Galatians. It contrasts the covenant of works, which relies on human effort and leads to bondage, with the covenant of grace, based on God's promise and salvation through faith in Christ. The narrative of Abraham's sons, Ishmael and Isaac, is used to illustrate this spiritual truth, emphasizing the superiority of the covenant of grace. The sermon warns against false teachings that promote salvation through works rather than grace, highlighting the need to trust in Christ alone for salvation.
Book of Acts Series - Part 13 | the Conversion
By Jim Cymbala1.2K31:47Book Of ActsPSA 103:8JER 32:17MAT 5:44ACT 9:1ROM 1:17GAL 2:16EPH 2:4In this sermon, the preacher discusses the trend of shortening church meetings in America due to people's lack of interest. He emphasizes that being in God's presence should bring joy and questions why people would want to leave early. The preacher then focuses on the conversion of Saul of Tarsus, highlighting how God made him blind for three days to help him understand spiritual truth. He also mentions the importance of the true gospel of Jesus Christ, which brings about genuine change in a person's life. The sermon concludes with an invitation for those who are merely churchgoers to become true Christians by accepting Jesus and experiencing a transformation.
Peace
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.1K13:24PeaceMAT 6:33ROM 5:1GAL 2:16PHP 4:61JN 1:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not being anxious and instead finding peace in God. He references Philippians 4:6-7, which instructs believers to not be anxious about anything but to pray and present their requests to God. The preacher encourages the congregation to focus their thoughts on things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report. He emphasizes that when believers allow God's peace to overcome their trials and anxieties, they experience the reign of Jesus in their souls. The sermon concludes with a call to obey this recipe for peace and promises that those who do will be pleasantly surprised by the results.
Justified by Faith
By Brian Brodersen1.1K54:49JustificationGEN 15:6PSA 32:1MAT 6:33ROM 3:24ROM 4:5GAL 2:16In this sermon on Romans, the preacher delves into the doctrine of justification by faith. He emphasizes that through God's grace and the redemption found in Christ Jesus, believers are justified freely. The preacher reflects on his past approach of focusing on the failures and shortcomings of Christians, but now understands the importance of being secure in God's grace and love. He highlights the need to always turn to Scripture as the final authority in matters of faith and morality.
Justification, Redemption, and Propitiation
By Brian Brodersen1.0K46:13PropitiationMAT 6:33ROM 3:24ROM 3:28ROM 4:5ROM 5:1GAL 2:16EPH 2:8In this sermon, the speaker focuses on Romans 3:24-26 and explores the doctrine of salvation by grace through faith. He emphasizes that justification is a key aspect of this doctrine. The speaker highlights the concept of God's grace turning away His wrath and the sacrifice of Jesus as the propitiation for our sins. He emphasizes that faith's only function is to receive what grace offers, and that salvation is not achieved through our own efforts or contributions. The speaker also shares a personal story of someone who came to faith and emphasizes the radical distinction between religion and the good news of salvation through Christ.
Crucified With Christ
By Vincent G. Artese1.0K47:28ChangedLUK 14:26ROM 2:11ROM 6:6GAL 2:16GAL 6:141JN 1:7In this sermon, the preacher discusses the issue of inconsistency and how it affects our reputation and our relationship with God. He gives an example of a criminal who commits a crime but denies his guilt in order to protect his reputation. The preacher emphasizes the importance of crucifying our own desires and putting Christ first in our lives. He references Philippians 3:7 and Matthew 18 to highlight the need to deny ourselves and prioritize our souls over worldly gains.
(Romans) the Power of the Gospel
By Brian Brodersen91437:55HAB 2:4MAT 28:19ROM 1:16ROM 3:21GAL 2:16EPH 2:8HEB 11:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the uniqueness of the Christian faith compared to other religions. He explains that while other religions focus on man's efforts to reach God, Christianity is about God stooping down to man. Through Jesus Christ, God takes on the sins of humanity, dies in their place, and rises from the dead. By believing in Jesus, individuals receive the gift of righteousness and experience a transformation in their lives. The preacher also highlights the power of the gospel, which is centered on the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Defending the Heart of the Gospel
By Phil Johnson6141:02:44GospelROM 3:242CO 5:20GAL 2:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the simplicity of the message of preaching Christ. The main verse discussed is 2 Corinthians 5:20, where the Apostle Paul describes his role as an evangelist and urges people to be reconciled to God. The sermon highlights the importance of understanding Christ's relationship to sin, sinners, and God the Father, as well as the means by which atonement for the world's sin was accomplished. The speaker also emphasizes the doctrine of justification by faith and the imputation of righteousness to sinners, using various key texts from Paul's writings in the New Testament.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Knowing that a man is not justified - See the notes on Rom 1:17; Rom 3:24 (note), Rom 3:27 (note); Rom 8:3 (note). And see on Act 13:38 (note) and Act 13:39 (note), in which places the subject of this verse is largely discussed. Neither the works of the Jewish law, nor of any other law, could justify any man; and if justification or pardon could not have been attained in some other way, the world must have perished. Justification by faith, in the boundless mercy of God, is as reasonable as it is Scriptural and necessary.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
not justified by the works of the law--as the GROUND of justification. "The works of the law" are those which have the law for their object--which are wrought to fulfil the law [ALFORD]. but by--Translate, "But only (in no other way save) through faith in Jesus Christ," as the MEAN and instrument of justification. Jesus Christ--In the second case, read with the oldest manuscripts, "Christ Jesus," the Messiahship coming into prominence in the case of Jewish believers, as "Jesus" does in the first case, referring to the general proposition. justified by the faith of Christ--that is, by Christ, the object of faith, as the ground of our justification. for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified--He rests his argument on this as an axiom in theology, referring to Psa 143:2, "Moses and Jesus Christ; The law and the promise; Doing and believing; Works and faith; Wages and the gift; The curse and the blessing--are represented as diametrically opposed" [BENGEL]. The moral law is, in respect to justification, more legal than the ceremonial, which was an elementary and preliminary Gospel: So "Sinai" (Gal 4:24), which is more famed for the Decalogue than for the ceremonial law, is made pre-eminently the type of legal bondage. Thus, justification by the law, whether the moral or ceremonial, is excluded (Rom 3:20).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law,.... That is, Peter, Paul, Barnabas, and other believing Jews knew this, and that from the law itself, which requires perfect and sinless obedience, and accuses, holds guilty, and adjudges to condemnation and death for the least failure, both as to matter or manner of duty; and from the prophets, which declare that by the deeds of the law no flesh can be justified in the sight of God, and who bear witness to the doctrines of remission of sin, and justification by the righteousness of Christ; and from the Gospel, in which this truth is most clearly revealed; and from the illumination of the blessed Spirit, who led them into all truth; and from the revelation of Jesus Christ they were favoured with; and from their own experience, being fully convinced of the exceeding sinfulness of sin, the insufficiency of their own righteousness, and of the necessity, suitableness, and fulness of the righteousness of Christ. By "the works of the law" are meant, not only obedience to the ceremonial law, though this is included, but also to the moral law; for it can hardly be thought, that the men the apostle opposes could ever dream of justification by their compliance with the rituals of the ceremonial law if they believed there could be no justification by their obedience to the moral law; for if there is no justification by the latter, there can be none by the former: the words are therefore to be taken in the largest sense, as rejecting all works of the law, of whatsoever kind, from justification in the sight of God; and such works are designed, as are performed by sinful men in and of themselves, otherwise men are justified by the works of the law as performed by Christ in their room and stead, but not by any as performed by themselves, for at best they are very imperfect, and so cannot justify; they are opposed to the grace of God, to which the justification of a sinner is always ascribed, and therefore cannot be by works; such a scheme would disannul the death of Christ, and promote boasting in men, and indeed is impracticable and impossible: but by the faith of Jesus Christ; not by that faith, which Christ, as man, had in God, who promised him help, succour, and assistance, and for which he, as man, trusted in him, and exercised faith upon him; but that faith of which he is the object, author, and finisher; and not by that as a cause, for faith has no causal influence on the justification of a sinner; it is not the efficient cause, for it is God that justifies; nor the moving cause, or which induces God to justify any, for that is his own free grace and good will; nor the meritorious or procuring cause, for that is the obedience and bloodshed of Christ; nor is faith the matter of justification; it is not a justifying righteousness; it is a part of sanctification; it is imperfect; as an act it is a man's own, and will not continue for ever in its present form, nature, and use; and is always distinguished from the righteousness of God, by which we are justified, which is perfect, is another's, and will last for ever. Men are not justified by faith, either as an habit, or an act; not by it as an habit or principle, this would be to confound justification and sanctification; nor as an act, for as such it is a man's own, and then justification would be by a man's works, contrary to the Scripture: but faith is to be taken either objectively, as it relates to Christ, the object of it, and his justifying righteousness; or as it is a means of receiving and apprehending Christ's righteousness; the discovery of it is made to faith; that grace discerns the excellency and suitableness of it, approves of it, rejects a man's own, lays hold on this, and rejoices in it: even we have believed in Jesus Christ; we who are Jews by nature, being fully apprized that there is no justification by the works of the law, but by the righteousness of Christ, received by faith, have quited all confidence in our own works, and are come to Christ, and believe in him, not only as the Messiah, but as the Lord our righteousness: that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law; not that faith, as before observed, has any causal influence on justification. These Jews did not believe in Christ, in order by their believing to procure their justification before God, and acceptance with him, but that they might receive, by faith, this blessing from the Lord in their own conscience, and enjoy the comfort of it, and all that spiritual peace which results from it, and which they could not find in the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified; reference seems to be had to Psa 143:2 and contains a reason why these believing Jews relinquished Moses in his law, in whom they formerly trusted, and looked to, and depended on for their justification, because that by obedience to the law of works no sinful mortal man can be justified in the sight of God,
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:16 Jews and Gentiles alike are sinners; the Good News requires both Jews and Gentiles to acknowledge that they are sinful (see Rom 2:1-5; 3:1-20) and in need of God’s grace (Rom 3:21-26). Peter later demonstrated his agreement with this message (Acts 15:7-11).