Galatians 3:11
Verse
Context
Christ Has Redeemed Us
10All 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.” 11Now it is clear that no one is justified before God by the law, because, “The righteous will live by faith.” 12The law, however, is not based on faith; on the contrary, “The man who does these things will live by them.”
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But that no man is justified by the law - By the observance of the law, suppose he had even continued in all things that are written in it to do them, is evident; for the Prophet Habakkuk, Hab 2:4, has declared, under the direct influence of the Spirit of God, The just shall live by faith; or, he who is just by faith shall live: therefore this justification comes not by works, or the observance of the law, but by faith.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
by the law--Greek, "IN the law." Both in and by are included. The syllogism in this verse and Gal 3:12, is, according to Scripture, "The just shall live by faith." But the law is not of faith, but of doing, or works (that is, does not make faith, but works, the conditional ground of justifying). Therefore "in," or "by the law, no man is justified before God" (whatever the case may be before men, Rom 4:2) --not even if he could, which he cannot, keep the law, because the Scripture element and conditional mean of justification is faith. The just shall live by faith-- (Rom 1:17; Hab 2:4). Not as BENGEL and ALFORD, "He who is just by faith shall live." The Greek supports English Version. Also the contrast is between "live by faith" (namely, as the ground and source of his justification), and "live in them," namely, in his doings or works (Gal 3:12), as the conditional element wherein he is justified.
John Gill Bible Commentary
But that no man is justified,.... There are some that are justified, as all God's elect are, in his own mind and will from eternity; which will of his to justify them, upon the righteousness of his Son, undertook by him to bring in, is their justification in the court of heaven; and all that believe in Christ are openly and manifestly justified in the court of conscience, under the testimony of the Spirit of God: but no one is justified by the law; it is in the Greek text, "in the law"; there were many justified before the law was given, as Noah, Job, Abraham, and all the Ante-Mosaic believers; and there were many justified "in", or under the legal dispensation; but none of them were justified by their obedience to the law, but by the righteousness they believed they had in the Lord: especially no man is justified in the sight of God; who sees the heart, knows the spring of actions, and whose judgment is according to truth; that is, by the law and the deeds of it, however they may before men: it is evident; it is a clear case, out of all dispute, as appears from Hab 2:4 for the just shall live by faith; which may be read either, "the just by faith, shall live": that is, the man who is just by faith, or justified by faith, not by it as a principle or act, or as the cause or matter of his justification, but by the object of his faith, Christ and his righteousness apprehended by faith, and so not just or justified by works; he shall live a life of justification, through that righteousness his faith receives; he shall live comfortably, with much peace and joy in the Holy Ghost, as the result of his being justified by faith; and shall live eternally, and never die the second death: or the "just shall live by faith"; he that is righteous, not by his own works, but by the obedience of Christ, shall live not upon faith, but by it on Christ, and his righteousness, which is revealed from faith to faith; and this makes it a clear point, that he is not justified by the law, for if he was, he would not live by faith on Christ, but in and by the deeds of the law.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:11 So it is clear from Scripture, even if it was not clear to the Galatians or the false teachers who were insisting on circumcision for Gentile believers. • “It is through faith that a righteous person has life”: Paul quotes Hab 2:4, in which the prophet was waiting in faith for God’s promise to be fulfilled.
Galatians 3:11
Christ Has Redeemed Us
10All 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.” 11Now it is clear that no one is justified before God by the law, because, “The righteous will live by faith.” 12The law, however, is not based on faith; on the contrary, “The man who does these things will live by them.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Tent of Shem
By Art Katz3.2K1:00:42Tent of ShemGEN 9:1DEU 32:8HAB 2:4MAT 6:33ROM 1:17GAL 3:11HEB 11:6In this sermon, the speaker reflects on a radical message he gave as a young believer at a Full Gospel Businessmen's Conference. Despite facing backlash and criticism, the message brought about a significant change and impact on the attendees. The speaker emphasizes that God's ultimate strategy for the nations, as mentioned in Genesis 9, will face opposition from the powers of death and hell. He also mentions a prophet in Habakkuk who corrected him for missing the mind of the Lord and causing damage to the body of Christ. The speaker acknowledges the importance of seeking the Lord through fasting and prayer in delivering messages and standing firm in the face of opposition.
The Call of God - the Glory of Jesus
By Zac Poonen2.0K55:42JesusHAB 2:4MAT 6:33JHN 4:1ROM 1:17GAL 3:11HEB 10:381JN 5:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living by faith and surrendering everything to God. He references the Bible verse in 1 John 5 that states faith is the victory that overcomes the world. The preacher also highlights the need to surrender our ambitions, plans, and desires to God's will for our lives. He encourages listeners to live a life of security in God, rather than relying on worldly notions of security. The sermon concludes with a prayer for faith, assurance, and acceptance of God's call.
Some Things Preachers Have to Do
By Lester Roloff1.8K53:41MRK 16:15ACT 9:3ROM 10:17GAL 3:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of prioritizing time with God and living a disciplined life. He encourages listeners to go to bed early and wake up early to spend time with God. The preacher shares his personal experience of waking up at 12 am to spend four hours with God. He also emphasizes the need for preachers to have a personal encounter with God and to preach the Word of God with conviction. Additionally, he challenges one individual to memorize 60 chapters of the Bible in the next five years. The preacher believes that if every preacher would practice and preach the simple gospel, it would have a transformative impact on society.
Religion or Relationship
By David Legge1.5K51:59ISA 64:6HAB 2:4LUK 15:25ACT 15:1ROM 5:1GAL 1:6GAL 2:16GAL 3:11HEB 11:6This 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.
The Just Shall Live by Faith
By Charles E. Fuller1.5K50:52Live By FaithHAB 2:4MAT 6:33ROM 1:17GAL 3:11HEB 10:19HEB 10:38HEB 11:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of sharing the old story of Jesus and His love. He encourages listeners to remember and retell this story, as it brings healing to broken hearts and serves as a remedy for sin. The preacher also highlights the need for God's righteousness in all people, regardless of their background, and emphasizes the importance of confessing sins, repenting, and believing in Jesus Christ for salvation. The sermon references the book of Habakkuk in the Bible, where the prophet faced spiritual difficulties but ultimately found faith in God.
(February 1987) 05 - the Just Live by Faith
By Ray Lowe1.3K1:08:09Live By FaithHAB 2:2ROM 1:17GAL 3:11HEB 10:35JUD 1:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not drawing back from God's calling. He highlights that God is not pleased with those who draw back and lose faith. The preacher uses the analogy of someone reaching out to help, only to have their fingers bitten off, to illustrate the consequences of drawing back from God. He also contrasts the church of Acts, which grew stronger in the face of persecution, with the church of Isaiah, which lacked faith. The sermon encourages believers to persevere and not be tempted by the world.
Faith
By Bill McLeod1.2K14:10FaithGAL 2:20GAL 3:11GAL 3:22EPH 2:8EPH 3:122TI 3:15HEB 10:22HEB 11:3HEB 11:7JAS 1:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of faith in pleasing God. He references Psalm 37:5 and Proverbs 3:5-6, which encourage believers to commit their ways to the Lord and trust in Him. The speaker highlights that faith allows Christians to have access to God, receive Christ, and be saved. He also mentions the power of faith and how it can bring about positive outcomes in our lives. The sermon concludes with a reminder to believe in God's promises and not lose faith, even when faced with challenges.
Church History Series - Part 6
By Mike Attwood8650:25Church HistoryProtestant ReformationFaith and ConvictionHAB 2:4MAT 28:19ROM 1:17GAL 3:11HEB 10:38Mike Attwood discusses the Protestant Reformation, emphasizing the pivotal role of Habakkuk 2:4, 'the just shall live by faith,' in inspiring Martin Luther and shaping the Reformation from AD 1500 to 1800. He highlights the cultural rebirth during the Renaissance, the rise of nation-states, and the corruption within the Roman Church that fueled the desire for reform. Attwood recounts the significant figures of the Reformation, including John Hus, Luther, Zwingli, and Calvin, and their struggles against both Catholicism and each other. He also addresses the subsequent challenges faced by the Reformation, including the Great Ejection and the rise of higher criticism, ultimately affirming that the proclamation of the gospel remains the true answer to societal issues. The sermon concludes with a call to stand firm in faith and truth, inspired by the historical courage of reformers.
Living by Faith
By Charles Finney0FaithChristian LivingHAB 2:4JHN 14:1ROM 1:172CO 5:7GAL 3:11EPH 2:8PHP 4:6HEB 10:38JAS 2:191PE 1:8Charles Finney emphasizes that the just shall live by faith, explaining that faith is not merely intellectual but a heartfelt trust in God. He illustrates how all people, including children and families, inherently rely on faith for daily life, while distinguishing between generic faith and the specific faith that Christians possess in Christ. This Christian faith leads to a life of obedience, submission, joy, and spiritual communion with God, ultimately shaping a believer's character and actions. Finney argues that true faith is essential for a fulfilling life, both on earth and in heaven, as it fosters peace, humility, and a sense of purpose.
Repentance From Dead Works
By Harry Ironside0Faith in ChristRepentanceISA 64:6JER 17:9JHN 14:6ACT 24:15ROM 3:19ROM 10:3GAL 3:11PHP 3:4HEB 6:1HEB 9:13Harry Ironside emphasizes the critical nature of 'repentance from dead works' in the Christian faith, contrasting it with the futile attempts of legalism to achieve righteousness. He explains that dead works refer to the efforts of individuals to earn salvation through their own actions, which are ultimately ineffective due to humanity's sinful nature. Ironside highlights that true repentance involves a complete change of mind, turning away from self-reliance and towards faith in Jesus Christ for salvation. He illustrates this with biblical examples and stresses that salvation has always been through faith, not works, as seen in the lives of figures like Abraham and David. The sermon concludes with the assurance that true life and good works flow from a relationship with Christ, not from human effort.
The Message of Genesis
By G. Campbell Morgan0Relationship with GodFaithGEN 1:26GEN 3:6GEN 12:1GEN 32:24JHN 3:16ROM 1:20GAL 3:11EPH 2:8HEB 11:1HEB 11:6G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the permanent values found in Genesis, asserting that it lays the foundational truths of theology, cosmogony, anthropology, sociology, hamartiology, ethnology, and soteriology. He explains that the intimate relationship between God and man is central, highlighting that faith in God is essential for realizing one's life. Morgan argues that Genesis provides the initial truths that underpin the entire Christian faith, and that understanding these truths is crucial for addressing the complexities of human existence. He concludes that the essence of Genesis is the call to recognize our relationship with God and to live by faith and obedience.
The Naked Truth Laid Open
By John Toldervy0ROM 5:10ROM 9:31ROM 10:8GAL 3:11HEB 7:28John Toldervy preaches about the importance of seeking the true faith and the Word of Truth that sets free, emphasizing the need to be led by the Spirit and not by works of the Law. He reflects on his journey of seeking God through various teachings and traditions until finding redemption and peace in the light of Christ. Toldervy acknowledges his past mistakes, the vanity of preaching without the Spirit, and the need for true obedience and faith in Christ for salvation and regeneration.
The Era of the Hidden Secret
By T. Austin-Sparks0Hidden Secrets of GodFaith Across ErasGEN 3:15DEU 18:15MAT 13:44JHN 3:16ROM 1:17GAL 3:11EPH 3:5COL 1:26HEB 11:1JAS 2:26T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the concept of the 'hidden secret' in God's plan, contrasting it with the outward rituals and traditions of the Old Testament. He clarifies that the term 'secret' is used to denote something that was kept hidden, rather than a mystical or mysterious concept. Sparks points out that while the Old Testament contained shadows of the truth, the fullness of God's revelation through Christ has now been disclosed, shifting from an era of external observance to one of internal faith. He stresses that the fundamental principle of faith remains unchanged across both eras, highlighting that true understanding and relationship with God transcends mere ritual. The sermon ultimately calls for a deeper spiritual comprehension of God's unchanging purpose throughout history.
The Message of Habakkuk
By G. Campbell Morgan0Waiting On GodFaithPSA 37:7ISA 40:31HAB 2:4ROM 1:17GAL 3:11HEB 10:38JAS 1:3G. Campbell Morgan explores the profound message of Habakkuk, emphasizing the contrast between the proud, whose souls are crooked, and the righteous, who live by their faith. He illustrates how Habakkuk's journey from doubt to affirmation reveals that true life is rooted in faith, despite outward appearances of chaos and injustice. The sermon highlights the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty and the necessity of waiting on Him, as Habakkuk ultimately transitions from despair to a song of praise. Morgan encourages believers to confront their doubts directly with God and to trust in His promises, reminding them that faith is the principle of life.
Exposition on Psalm 89
By St. Augustine0PSA 88:1PSA 89:34MAT 5:14MAT 23:38ACT 2:29ROM 11:1ROM 15:81CO 4:13GAL 3:11St. Augustine preaches about the faithfulness of God's promises, despite the challenges faced by His people. He highlights the change brought by Christ's resurrection and the reproaches endured by Christians. The Psalmist calls on God to remember the rebukes His servants faced and to uphold His Anointed. Despite blasphemies, the blessing of the Lord endures forever, and believers express gratitude for His mercy. St. Augustine urges unity in faith and respect for the Church as the Mother of believers, emphasizing the importance of honoring both God and His Church.
The Natural Man and Conscience
By W.J. Erdman0ACT 17:30ROM 1:20ROM 2:14ROM 3:20GAL 3:11W.J. Erdman preaches about the universal truth underlying all natural religions, emphasizing the importance of fearing God, doing right, and acknowledging the coming judgment day. He highlights how various cultures and wise men throughout history have recognized the significance of fearing God and keeping His commandments, as echoed in the New Testament teachings. Erdman emphasizes that while duty is essential, it is not redemptive, and salvation cannot be earned through works alone, contrasting the Gospel message with the beliefs of other sacred texts.
The Cross and the "So Great Salvation"
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Work of the CrossGreat SalvationMAT 16:24MRK 15:34JHN 1:29ROM 3:22ROM 8:232CO 5:21GAL 3:11EPH 2:13HEB 2:3HEB 9:27T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound nature of 'so great salvation' as described in Hebrews 2:3, exploring its comprehensive aspects such as substitution, representation, redemption, justification, reconciliation, regeneration, sonship, sanctification, and glorification. He explains that humanity's inability to meet divine requirements necessitates a substitute, Jesus Christ, who takes on our sins and offers us redemption and justification. The sermon highlights the transformative journey from being alienated from God to becoming reconciled and sanctified, ultimately leading to glorification. Sparks warns against neglecting this great salvation, underscoring the importance of recognizing and embracing the fullness of what Christ has accomplished for us. The message calls believers to grow in their understanding and experience of their salvation, moving towards maturity in Christ.
Extract From an Unpublished Letter
By John Nelson Darby0The Role of MinistrySpiritual GrowthJHN 6:63ROM 10:17GAL 3:11EPH 4:111PE 2:2John Nelson Darby emphasizes the necessity of nurturing an awakened soul through the Word of God, noting that initial feelings of conversion must be sustained by Christ to prevent spiritual weakness. He acknowledges the role of ministry in feeding the soul rather than merely focusing on initial emotional responses. Darby also discusses the validity of conversions that occur through singing, asserting that the Spirit can work through truth expressed in hymns. He highlights that while the foundation of faith may not be as solid at first, even a small encounter with Christ can lead to genuine spiritual awakening. Ultimately, he trusts that God will complete His work in the hearts of believers.
Justification by Faith Alone
By Jonathan Edwards0ROM 3:28ROM 4:5GAL 2:16GAL 3:11EPH 2:8Jonathan Edwards preaches about the doctrine of justification by faith alone, emphasizing that we are justified solely by faith in Christ, without any reliance on our own goodness or works. He explains that justification involves being approved by God as free from the guilt of sin and having the righteousness that entitles us to eternal life. Edwards argues that our faith in Christ unites us with Him, making it fitting in God's sight for us to have an interest in Christ's merits. He refutes the idea of conditional justification based on our works, highlighting that our inherent unworthiness and guilt prevent any acceptance of our virtue until we are actually justified in Christ.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But that no man is justified by the law - By the observance of the law, suppose he had even continued in all things that are written in it to do them, is evident; for the Prophet Habakkuk, Hab 2:4, has declared, under the direct influence of the Spirit of God, The just shall live by faith; or, he who is just by faith shall live: therefore this justification comes not by works, or the observance of the law, but by faith.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
by the law--Greek, "IN the law." Both in and by are included. The syllogism in this verse and Gal 3:12, is, according to Scripture, "The just shall live by faith." But the law is not of faith, but of doing, or works (that is, does not make faith, but works, the conditional ground of justifying). Therefore "in," or "by the law, no man is justified before God" (whatever the case may be before men, Rom 4:2) --not even if he could, which he cannot, keep the law, because the Scripture element and conditional mean of justification is faith. The just shall live by faith-- (Rom 1:17; Hab 2:4). Not as BENGEL and ALFORD, "He who is just by faith shall live." The Greek supports English Version. Also the contrast is between "live by faith" (namely, as the ground and source of his justification), and "live in them," namely, in his doings or works (Gal 3:12), as the conditional element wherein he is justified.
John Gill Bible Commentary
But that no man is justified,.... There are some that are justified, as all God's elect are, in his own mind and will from eternity; which will of his to justify them, upon the righteousness of his Son, undertook by him to bring in, is their justification in the court of heaven; and all that believe in Christ are openly and manifestly justified in the court of conscience, under the testimony of the Spirit of God: but no one is justified by the law; it is in the Greek text, "in the law"; there were many justified before the law was given, as Noah, Job, Abraham, and all the Ante-Mosaic believers; and there were many justified "in", or under the legal dispensation; but none of them were justified by their obedience to the law, but by the righteousness they believed they had in the Lord: especially no man is justified in the sight of God; who sees the heart, knows the spring of actions, and whose judgment is according to truth; that is, by the law and the deeds of it, however they may before men: it is evident; it is a clear case, out of all dispute, as appears from Hab 2:4 for the just shall live by faith; which may be read either, "the just by faith, shall live": that is, the man who is just by faith, or justified by faith, not by it as a principle or act, or as the cause or matter of his justification, but by the object of his faith, Christ and his righteousness apprehended by faith, and so not just or justified by works; he shall live a life of justification, through that righteousness his faith receives; he shall live comfortably, with much peace and joy in the Holy Ghost, as the result of his being justified by faith; and shall live eternally, and never die the second death: or the "just shall live by faith"; he that is righteous, not by his own works, but by the obedience of Christ, shall live not upon faith, but by it on Christ, and his righteousness, which is revealed from faith to faith; and this makes it a clear point, that he is not justified by the law, for if he was, he would not live by faith on Christ, but in and by the deeds of the law.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:11 So it is clear from Scripture, even if it was not clear to the Galatians or the false teachers who were insisting on circumcision for Gentile believers. • “It is through faith that a righteous person has life”: Paul quotes Hab 2:4, in which the prophet was waiting in faith for God’s promise to be fulfilled.