Galatians 3:27
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
As many of you as have been baptized into Christ - All of you who have believed in Christ as the promised Messiah, and received baptism as a public proof that ye had received Christ as your Lord and Savior, have put on Christ - have received his Spirit, and entered into his interests, and copied his manners. To put on, or to be clothed with one, is to assume the person and character of that one; and they who do so are bound to act his part, and to sustain the character which they have assumed. The profession of Christianity is an assumption of the character of Christ; he has left us an example that we should follow his steps, and we should, as Christians, have that mind in us which was in him. See the notes on Rom 6:3, Rom 6:4; and especially those on Rom 13:14 (note), where this phrase is farther explained.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
baptized into Christ-- (Rom 6:3). have put on Christ--Ye did, in that very act of being baptized into Christ, put on, or clothe yourselves with, Christ: so the Greek expresses. Christ is to you the toga virilis (the Roman garment of the full-grown man, assumed when ceasing to be a child) [BENGEL]. GATAKER defines a Christian, "One who has put on Christ." The argument is, By baptism ye have put on Christ; and therefore, He being the Son of God, ye become sons by adoption, by virtue of His Sonship by generation. This proves that baptism, where it answers to its ideal, is not a mere empty sign, but a means of spiritual transference from the state of legal condemnation to that of living union with Christ, and of sonship through Him in relation to God (Rom 13:14). Christ alone can, by baptizing with His Spirit, make the inward grace correspond to the outward sign. But as He promises the blessing in the faithful use of the means, the Church has rightly presumed, in charity, that such is the case, nothing appearing to the contrary.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ,.... Not that it is to be imagined that these churches of Galatia, or any of the primitive churches, consisted of baptized and unbaptized persons; for this would be acting contrary to the commission of Christ and the order of the Gospel: but this way of speaking supposes that there might be some of them, who though baptized in water, yet not into Christ; and that those who are truly and rightly baptized, who are proper subjects of it, and to whom it is administered in a proper manner, are baptized into Christ: not that by baptism they are brought into union with Christ, but into communion with him; for they are not merely baptized in his name, and by his authority, and according to his command, and into his doctrine, and a profession of him; but into a participation of the blessings of grace which are in him, and come through his sufferings and death; for they that are baptized into Christ are baptized into his death and resurrection from the dead; they are led by faith to behold the cleansing of their souls, and the remission of their sins by his blood, and their justification by his righteousness; how he was delivered for their offences, died for their sins, was buried in the grave, and their iniquities with him, and rose again for their justification; of all which, baptism, performed by immersion, is a lively emblem; and this is to be baptized into Christ, namely, being baptized believing in him, and calling on his name: and such have put on Christ; both before and at baptism: before it they put him on as the Lord their righteousness; his righteousness is compared to a garment, is called the best robe, the wedding garment, fine linen, clean and white, the robe of righteousness, a garment down to the feet; this is imputed to the elect of God by the Father, through a gracious act of his, and what they are clothed and covered with by the Son, and is put upon them and applied unto them by the Spirit; and which faith receiving puts off its own rags of righteousness, and makes use of this as its proper dress to appear in before the most High; and such through divine grace are enabled to put off the old man and put on the new; that is, walk in their outward lives and conversation, not according to the dictates of corrupt nature, but according to the principles of grace, of the new man formed in the soul, for righteousness and holiness, and in imitation of Christ; having him for an example, and desiring to walk as he walked; which is another sense of putting on Christ, namely, a following of him in the exercise of grace and discharge of duty; see Rom 13:14 and such persons, as they are the proper subjects of baptism, who have believed in Christ for righteousness, and walk worthy of him; so in baptism they may also be said to put him on as they thereby and therein make a public profession of him, by deeds as well as words, declaring him to be their Lord and King; and afresh exercise faith upon him, as their Saviour and Redeemer, and imitate and follow him in it, as their pattern; who himself submitted to it, leaving them an example that they should tread in his steps; which when they do, they may be said to put him on. The allusion is either to the putting off and putting on of clothes at baptism, which being performed by immersion, required such actions, which no other mode does; or, to the priests putting off their common clothes, and then bathing or dipping themselves in water, and, putting on the garments of the priesthood before they entered on their service; concerning which take the following rules prescribed by the Misnic doctors (q); "no man may enter the court for service, though clean, , "until he dips himself" five times, and washes his hands and feet ten times;'' for every time he immersed himself, he washed his hands and feet before and after: again, "there is a vail of fine linen between him (the high priest) and the people; he puts off his clothes, , "he goes down and dips himself, he comes up", and wipes himself; then they bring him the golden garments, and "he puts them on", and washes his hands and his feet; then they bring him the daily sacrifice, &c.'' and a little after, "they bring him (the high priest on the day of atonement) to the house of Paryah, and in the holy place there was a vail of fine linen between him and the people; he washes his hands and his feet, and puts off his garments: R. Meir says, he puts off his garments, and then washes his hands and his feet; "he goes down and dips himself, he comes up again", and wipes himself; then they bring him the white garments, and he puts them on, and washes his hands and his feet:'' all which may serve to illustrate this passage, and point out to us what the apostle alludes unto, as well as to observe to us the distinction the Jews made between the immersion of the whole body, and a washing of a part of it. (q) Misn. Yoma, c. 3. sect. 3, 4, 6. Vid. Misn. Tamid, c. 1. sect. 1, 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:27 united with Christ in baptism: See Rom 6:3-4. Baptism represents death of an old life and birth into a new one. In the new life, the law’s curse no longer has any force (cp. Rom 7:1-6). • have put on Christ, like putting on new clothes: Christ covers us and gives us a new identity. Cp. Col 3:12; 1 Thes 5:8.
Galatians 3:27
Sons through Faith in Christ
26You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.27For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.28There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Beatitudes/clothed in Christ 1
By Paul Washer10K48:40BeatitudesMAT 5:48MAT 11:28ROM 7:182CO 5:17GAL 3:27PHP 1:6HEB 12:6In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the power and authority of true prophets of God. He highlights how the prophets in the Bible, including Paul, delivered strong and sometimes uncomfortable messages to Israel. However, the mark of a true prophet is that they also offer hope and redemption, inviting people to come to God for healing and restoration. The speaker then shifts to discussing the Christian life, emphasizing that true blessedness comes from experiencing the presence and glory of Jesus Christ. He encourages believers to focus on becoming more like Jesus and to prioritize character transformation over mere actions or accomplishments. The sermon concludes by examining the importance of Jesus' teaching in the Sermon on the Mount, emphasizing the significance of Jesus opening his mouth to teach the disciples.
Clothed in Christ (Part 1)
By Paul Washer4.7K49:47Clothed in ChristMAT 5:3GAL 3:27In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of studying the prophets and the teachings of Paul in order to understand the depth and power of God's message. He highlights that true prophets of God may deliver strong and challenging messages, but they always offer hope and redemption. The speaker then reflects on his own journey and the realization that ministry and accolades mean nothing if he does not see Jesus Christ reflected in his life. He urges the audience to focus on becoming like Jesus rather than just doing things for Him. The sermon concludes with a reminder that our problems stem from our character and lack of emphasis on becoming like Jesus.
Miracles Are a Must!
By Andrew Strom4.1K1:19:00MiraclesMAT 28:19MRK 16:16LUK 4:18ACT 2:381CO 14:26GAL 3:27In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of embodying the mission of Jesus in our lives. He highlights four key aspects of Jesus' mission: preaching the gospel, ministering to the poor, healing the sick, and casting out demons. The preacher emphasizes that these four elements are essential for a New Testament preacher and Christianity. He also emphasizes the significance of street preachers and the need to value and support them. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the importance of small group meetings and the power of prophetic utterances in those gatherings.
Abiding in Him
By Erlo Stegen2.6K1:10:29AbidingPSA 84:11MAT 6:33GAL 3:27EPH 5:251PE 5:8REV 12:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of shining forth as a Christian and being clothed with the sun. He warns against deceiving others into thinking one is a Christian if they are not truly shining forth. The preacher also emphasizes the presence of the great red dragon, representing the Prince of Darkness, who seeks to devour and influence believers. He urges listeners to avoid participating in sinful activities and to abide in Christ instead. The sermon concludes with a call to be like the saints who conquered the devil through the blood of the lamb, their testimony, and their willingness to give up their lives for the Lord.
The Bed and Its Covering
By C.H. Spurgeon1.7K39:09GEN 21:6ISA 28:20MAT 6:33ROM 3:23GAL 3:27EPH 3:18HEB 7:25In this sermon, the preacher discusses the contentment of a Christian who lives in poverty but finds joy and satisfaction in the presence of God. The preacher contrasts this with the worldly man who constantly seeks more and is never satisfied. The preacher emphasizes that worldly achievements and fame are ultimately empty and cannot bring true contentment. The sermon also highlights the insatiable nature of human desires and the futility of seeking fulfillment in material possessions.
The Message of Baptism
By Rolfe Barnard1.5K45:23BaptismEXO 20:7MAT 3:13JHN 5:24ACT 2:38ROM 6:11CO 10:1GAL 3:27In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being baptized and making a public profession of faith. He compares the seriousness of being baptized to the high crimes of breaking up a home or causing destruction in a city. The speaker refers to the scene on the day of Pentecost when Peter preached to a crowd who had just crucified Jesus, and they were convicted of their sin. He also shares a story of a Roman general who was willing to be fed to lions alongside persecuted Christians, highlighting the commitment and belief in the power of the Holy Spirit. The speaker expresses his hope for a revival in America and believes that baptism holds the essence of every gospel truth.
Baptism in Water
By Anton Bosch1.1K41:42BaptismMAT 6:33MRK 16:16ACT 2:38ROM 6:31CO 15:1GAL 3:27COL 2:12In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the topic of water baptism. He starts by acknowledging that the chosen Bible passage, 1 Corinthians 15, does not directly address water baptism. However, he uses this chapter on the resurrection to emphasize the importance of Christ's death, burial, and resurrection as the core elements of the gospel. The preacher explains that the mention of Christ's burial is significant because it verifies his actual death and refutes the belief that he was in a coma or swoon. He contrasts this Christ-centered gospel with the man-centered message that is often preached today.
Baptism Essential to Salvation
By W.H. Hopson0MAT 28:19MRK 16:15ACT 2:38ROM 6:3GAL 3:27COL 2:122TI 3:16HEB 7:12JAS 2:172PE 3:15W.H. Hopson preaches about the essentiality of faith, repentance, and baptism for salvation, emphasizing the need for full compliance with the conditions of pardon outlined in the New Testament. He highlights the importance of understanding the law of pardon as the only amnesty proclamation for sinners, stressing that salvation is dependent on faith, repentance, and baptism as equally essential requirements. Hopson addresses objections to baptism as a non-essential element, refuting the notion that prayer alone can replace baptism in the process of remission of sins. He urges believers to adhere to the clear commandments of Jesus without altering or diminishing the Word of God, emphasizing the significance of baptism as a positive institution ordained for the forgiveness of sins.
The Church the Body of Christ
By Elijah Goodwin0MAT 1:23JHN 1:1JHN 1:3ROM 6:31CO 11:31CO 12:12GAL 3:27EPH 1:22EPH 5:23COL 1:18HEB 1:101JN 4:11Elijah Goodwin preaches about the significance of Christ as the head of the church, emphasizing His supremacy in various biblical figures and the pre-eminence He should have in all aspects. The sermon delves into the character of Christ, highlighting His divine nature as the creator and upholder of all things, and the unity that exists between Christ as the head and the church as His body. Practical reflections are drawn on the importance of loving one another, honoring Christ, cooperating for the church's welfare, maintaining purity, and the assurance of resurrection for the members of Christ's body.
Homily 24 on Romans
By St. John Chrysostom0MRK 4:38LUK 9:58ROM 13:11ROM 13:141CO 7:291CO 10:31GAL 3:27EPH 4:22HEB 10:37John Chrysostom preaches about the urgency of waking up from spiritual slumber, emphasizing the nearness of the Resurrection and Judgment Day. He encourages believers to cast off works of darkness and put on the armor of light, symbolizing the virtues and righteousness of Christ. Chrysostom warns against indulging in worldly desires, urging the congregation to live in a manner that glorifies God and to avoid the pitfalls of drunkenness, immorality, and strife. He stresses the importance of imitating Christ in humility, simplicity, and self-control, to be constantly wrapped up in His love and righteousness.
Jesus, Thy Blood and Righteousness
By Count Zinzendorf0ROM 3:25GAL 3:27EPH 1:71JN 1:7REV 12:11Count Zinzendorf preaches about the all-encompassing power of Jesus' blood and righteousness, which serves as our beauty, dress, and defense against sin and shame. Through Jesus' sacrifice, we are absolved, cleansed, and made white as snow, with Satan defeated and our souls redeemed. Zinzendorf emphasizes the importance of believing in the atoning blood of Jesus, the eternal love and grace available to all, and the transformation that occurs when we surrender to Christ and put on His righteousness.
The Mystery of Faith
By G.W. North0CommunionBaptismMAT 28:19JHN 6:53ACT 2:38ROM 6:41CO 11:23GAL 3:27EPH 4:4COL 2:12HEB 10:221PE 3:21G.W. North explores 'The Mystery of Faith' by illustrating the profound connection between baptism and communion, emphasizing that water symbolizes the Holy Spirit while bread and wine represent the body and blood of Christ. He explains that baptism signifies forgiveness, cleansing, and regeneration, while communion serves as a personal testimony of this transformation. North asserts that these two ordinances are inseparable, reflecting the essential elements of spirit, body, and blood necessary for life. Together, they encapsulate the mystery of faith, ordained by the Lord to convey a complete and coherent doctrine. The relationship between baptism and communion is essential, as each complements the other in the believer's spiritual journey.
Some Strictures on a Late Treatise, Called, a Fair and Rational Vindication of the Right of Infants to the Ordinance of Baptism.
By John Gill0BaptismCovenant TheologyGEN 17:7JER 31:33MAT 19:14MAT 28:19MRK 10:13ACT 2:39ROM 4:111CO 7:14GAL 3:27COL 2:12John Gill critiques David Bostwick's treatise on the right of infants to baptism, arguing that the scriptural basis he presents, particularly Acts 2:39, is misinterpreted and does not support infant baptism. Gill emphasizes that the promise in the text is directed towards those who repent and believe, not infants, and that the covenant of circumcision does not equate to the covenant of grace. He asserts that the practice of infant baptism lacks biblical command and historical precedent, and he challenges the notion that infants can partake in the covenant relationship without the capacity for faith and repentance. Gill concludes that the arguments for infant baptism are built on a false foundation and that true baptism is reserved for those who can profess their faith.
Dressing Up
By John Fischer01SA 16:72SA 6:20MAT 23:27GAL 3:27PHP 2:3John Fischer explores the concept of dressing up, not just in physical attire but in the context of life and faith. He questions the significance of clothing in expressing identity and the pressure to conform to societal standards of appearance. Using the example of David dancing before the Ark of the Covenant, Fischer emphasizes the importance of authenticity and humility in our approach to life's dance, even if it means being perceived as undignified by others.
Epistle 411
By George Fox0Unchanging Nature of GodIdentity in ChristJER 31:33MAL 4:2JHN 1:3JHN 8:12JHN 17:32CO 5:172CO 6:18GAL 3:27REV 12:1REV 22:13George Fox emphasizes the identity of believers as sons and daughters of God, highlighting that they possess God's law in their hearts and know eternal life through Jesus Christ. He describes believers as new creatures clothed in Christ, who is unchanging and the true light of the world. Fox contrasts the eternal nature of Christ with the changeable aspects of worldly religions and practices, urging believers to walk in the light of Christ and remain steadfast in their faith. He reassures that the true church of Christ, which is unchanging, stands firm above the transient nature of worldly influences. Ultimately, he calls for a life that glorifies God through the unchanging truth of Jesus.
Thoughts for the Quiet Hour - June 7
By D.L. Moody0Identity in ChristLiving Out FaithMAT 5:16JHN 15:4ROM 13:142CO 5:17GAL 3:27EPH 4:24PHP 1:21COL 3:31PE 2:91JN 2:6D.L. Moody emphasizes that being baptized into Christ means more than just receiving His righteousness; it involves putting on Christ Himself as our spiritual garment. He explains that Christians are not only to bear Christ but to wear Him, allowing His presence and Spirit to be evident in their lives. This transformation should be so profound that others see Christ reflected in us, just as they see our clothing. Moody encourages believers to engage in deep communion with Christ, embodying His character and grace in their daily lives.
What Must I Do to Be Saved?
By O.A. Burgess0MAT 28:19MRK 16:16JHN 1:29ACT 2:37ACT 16:30ACT 22:16ROM 6:3GAL 3:27COL 2:121PE 3:21O.A. Burgess preaches on the crucial question 'Sirs, what must I do to be saved?' from Acts 16:30, emphasizing the importance of understanding salvation in the light of the New Testament. The sermon delves into the necessity of salvation from sin, highlighting that Christ's central mission was to save people from the power and consequences of sin. The answer to this question lies in three key elements: faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, repentance toward God, and immersion into the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Holy Baptism
By Andrew Murray0BaptismCovenant with GodMAT 28:19MRK 16:16JHN 3:5ROM 6:3GAL 3:27TIT 3:5Andrew Murray emphasizes the significance of Holy Baptism as a vital step in the Christian faith, highlighting that it represents a believer's entrance into a covenant with the Trinity. He explains that through baptism, individuals are not only cleansed of sin but also receive the new birth, the promise of forgiveness, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Murray stresses that baptism is a lifelong journey of understanding and enjoying the blessings it brings, including a deepening relationship with God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. He encourages believers to view baptism as a continual reminder of their commitment to live in union with Christ and to embrace the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in their lives. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper appreciation of the rich blessings associated with baptism.
Adaptation of Measures
By Catherine Booth0JER 1:10ACT 2:4ROM 10:141CO 9:221CO 12:4GAL 3:27GAL 5:62TI 4:2Catherine Booth preaches about the principle of Adaptation, emphasizing the need to adapt to different circumstances and individuals to effectively share the Gospel. She highlights the humility and flexibility of the Apostle Paul in becoming weak to win the weak and the importance of being all things to all men to save some. Catherine Booth stresses the diversity of gifts and administrations but the unity in the Spirit, Lord, and God's work. She challenges the traditionalism and formalism in the Church, advocating for a return to the simplicity and spirituality of the Gospel, focusing on real spiritual life and truth over mere forms and ceremonies.
Perfect Oneness
By Thomas Bradbury0JHN 17:21ROM 12:41CO 12:12GAL 3:27EPH 1:2EPH 2:18EPH 4:1EPH 4:6COL 1:24Thomas Bradbury preaches on the perfect oneness of the Church with Jehovah, emphasizing the deep sense of identity and humility in apostolic injunctions. He highlights the need for believers to walk worthy of their calling, showing lowliness, meekness, and forbearance in love. The sermon delves into the 'Family Epistle' of Ephesians, revealing the eternal union of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit with the elect children. It explores the unique revelation of a present Christ throughout the epistle, emphasizing the continuous communion and union between Christ and His Church.
Christian Baptism Not Founded on Proselyte Baptism.
By John Gill0Authority of ChristBaptismMAT 3:6MAT 28:19JHN 1:33ACT 2:38ACT 8:36ACT 10:47ACT 16:15ACT 19:5ROM 6:4GAL 3:27John Gill argues that Christian baptism is not derived from Jewish proselyte baptism, emphasizing that the Talmuds, which document such practices, were written long after the time of Christ and John the Baptist. He points out that the Jewish baptism lacked the divine authority and solemnity that characterize Christian baptism, and that it was often associated with immoral practices. Gill asserts that John the Baptist's baptism was a new and divine institution, distinct from any Jewish customs, and that there is no evidence of infant baptism in the Jewish tradition prior to Christ. He concludes that Christian baptism must be rooted in Christ's authority rather than human traditions.
Christ and His Harbinger Compared and Distinguished.
By Edward Payson0MAT 3:8MAT 3:11JHN 1:6JHN 14:26ACT 19:4ROM 8:91CO 12:13GAL 3:271PE 1:22Edward Payson preaches about John the Baptist's testimony of Christ's superiority and the baptism with the Holy Ghost and fire. John humbly acknowledges his unworthiness compared to Christ, emphasizing the need for repentance and faith in Jesus for true purification. The sermon highlights the importance of true ministers preaching repentance, exalting Christ, and emphasizing the necessity of being baptized with the Holy Spirit. It challenges listeners to examine their thoughts and feelings towards Christ, urging them to seek true baptism by the Spirit for purification and salvation.
Exposition on Psalm 132
By St. Augustine0PSA 131:1ACT 2:41GAL 3:271TI 6:17St. Augustine preaches about the importance of humility, meekness, and the need for sincere devotion in fulfilling vows to God. He emphasizes the significance of making room for the Lord in our lives by surrendering our desires and possessions, focusing on the common good rather than selfish interests. St. Augustine urges believers to be like the widow who trusts in God alone, to be poor in spirit, and to find satisfaction in God's provision. He highlights the role of priests in salvation and the joy of saints in being clothed with Christ's salvation, ultimately pointing to Christ as the source of sanctification and glory.
Whom to Know Is Life Eternal
By G.W. North0The TrinityBaptismMAT 28:19MRK 16:16JHN 1:29JHN 3:5ACT 2:38ACT 10:47ROM 6:41CO 12:13GAL 3:27EPH 4:5G.W. North emphasizes the transformative nature of baptism in the New Covenant, explaining that the apostles, after Jesus' resurrection, were commanded to baptize in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, reflecting a deeper understanding of the Godhead. He highlights that this new baptism represents a significant shift from their previous practice, as they now possess the ability to baptize into the fullness of God, empowered by the Holy Spirit. North asserts that Jesus' command signifies His eternal presence and the essence of eternal life, which believers enter through baptism. He concludes that while John's baptism was from heaven, the baptism instituted by Jesus is even more profound, marking the inauguration of the New Covenant. Ultimately, he stresses that there is one baptism that encompasses all, unifying the various forms of baptism into a singular, greater reality.
Two Chosen Vessels
By G.W. North0The Role of ApostlesBaptism Of The Holy SpiritMAT 28:19JHN 3:5ACT 2:4ACT 10:44ACT 19:2ROM 8:91CO 12:13GAL 3:27EPH 4:51PE 3:21G.W. North emphasizes the distinct paths of Peter and Paul in their ministries, illustrating how their unique backgrounds shaped their understanding and approach to preaching the Gospel. Peter, rooted in Jewish tradition, struggled to fully embrace the new covenant, while Paul, with his liberal upbringing, quickly recognized the significance of the Gospel for the Gentiles. North argues that God's choice of Paul as the apostle to the Gentiles was intentional, as it aligned with His purpose for the early Church. He highlights the importance of spiritual baptism over water baptism, asserting that God's desire is for believers to be immersed in the Holy Spirit. Ultimately, North calls for a deeper understanding of the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in the life of the Church.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
As many of you as have been baptized into Christ - All of you who have believed in Christ as the promised Messiah, and received baptism as a public proof that ye had received Christ as your Lord and Savior, have put on Christ - have received his Spirit, and entered into his interests, and copied his manners. To put on, or to be clothed with one, is to assume the person and character of that one; and they who do so are bound to act his part, and to sustain the character which they have assumed. The profession of Christianity is an assumption of the character of Christ; he has left us an example that we should follow his steps, and we should, as Christians, have that mind in us which was in him. See the notes on Rom 6:3, Rom 6:4; and especially those on Rom 13:14 (note), where this phrase is farther explained.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
baptized into Christ-- (Rom 6:3). have put on Christ--Ye did, in that very act of being baptized into Christ, put on, or clothe yourselves with, Christ: so the Greek expresses. Christ is to you the toga virilis (the Roman garment of the full-grown man, assumed when ceasing to be a child) [BENGEL]. GATAKER defines a Christian, "One who has put on Christ." The argument is, By baptism ye have put on Christ; and therefore, He being the Son of God, ye become sons by adoption, by virtue of His Sonship by generation. This proves that baptism, where it answers to its ideal, is not a mere empty sign, but a means of spiritual transference from the state of legal condemnation to that of living union with Christ, and of sonship through Him in relation to God (Rom 13:14). Christ alone can, by baptizing with His Spirit, make the inward grace correspond to the outward sign. But as He promises the blessing in the faithful use of the means, the Church has rightly presumed, in charity, that such is the case, nothing appearing to the contrary.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ,.... Not that it is to be imagined that these churches of Galatia, or any of the primitive churches, consisted of baptized and unbaptized persons; for this would be acting contrary to the commission of Christ and the order of the Gospel: but this way of speaking supposes that there might be some of them, who though baptized in water, yet not into Christ; and that those who are truly and rightly baptized, who are proper subjects of it, and to whom it is administered in a proper manner, are baptized into Christ: not that by baptism they are brought into union with Christ, but into communion with him; for they are not merely baptized in his name, and by his authority, and according to his command, and into his doctrine, and a profession of him; but into a participation of the blessings of grace which are in him, and come through his sufferings and death; for they that are baptized into Christ are baptized into his death and resurrection from the dead; they are led by faith to behold the cleansing of their souls, and the remission of their sins by his blood, and their justification by his righteousness; how he was delivered for their offences, died for their sins, was buried in the grave, and their iniquities with him, and rose again for their justification; of all which, baptism, performed by immersion, is a lively emblem; and this is to be baptized into Christ, namely, being baptized believing in him, and calling on his name: and such have put on Christ; both before and at baptism: before it they put him on as the Lord their righteousness; his righteousness is compared to a garment, is called the best robe, the wedding garment, fine linen, clean and white, the robe of righteousness, a garment down to the feet; this is imputed to the elect of God by the Father, through a gracious act of his, and what they are clothed and covered with by the Son, and is put upon them and applied unto them by the Spirit; and which faith receiving puts off its own rags of righteousness, and makes use of this as its proper dress to appear in before the most High; and such through divine grace are enabled to put off the old man and put on the new; that is, walk in their outward lives and conversation, not according to the dictates of corrupt nature, but according to the principles of grace, of the new man formed in the soul, for righteousness and holiness, and in imitation of Christ; having him for an example, and desiring to walk as he walked; which is another sense of putting on Christ, namely, a following of him in the exercise of grace and discharge of duty; see Rom 13:14 and such persons, as they are the proper subjects of baptism, who have believed in Christ for righteousness, and walk worthy of him; so in baptism they may also be said to put him on as they thereby and therein make a public profession of him, by deeds as well as words, declaring him to be their Lord and King; and afresh exercise faith upon him, as their Saviour and Redeemer, and imitate and follow him in it, as their pattern; who himself submitted to it, leaving them an example that they should tread in his steps; which when they do, they may be said to put him on. The allusion is either to the putting off and putting on of clothes at baptism, which being performed by immersion, required such actions, which no other mode does; or, to the priests putting off their common clothes, and then bathing or dipping themselves in water, and, putting on the garments of the priesthood before they entered on their service; concerning which take the following rules prescribed by the Misnic doctors (q); "no man may enter the court for service, though clean, , "until he dips himself" five times, and washes his hands and feet ten times;'' for every time he immersed himself, he washed his hands and feet before and after: again, "there is a vail of fine linen between him (the high priest) and the people; he puts off his clothes, , "he goes down and dips himself, he comes up", and wipes himself; then they bring him the golden garments, and "he puts them on", and washes his hands and his feet; then they bring him the daily sacrifice, &c.'' and a little after, "they bring him (the high priest on the day of atonement) to the house of Paryah, and in the holy place there was a vail of fine linen between him and the people; he washes his hands and his feet, and puts off his garments: R. Meir says, he puts off his garments, and then washes his hands and his feet; "he goes down and dips himself, he comes up again", and wipes himself; then they bring him the white garments, and he puts them on, and washes his hands and his feet:'' all which may serve to illustrate this passage, and point out to us what the apostle alludes unto, as well as to observe to us the distinction the Jews made between the immersion of the whole body, and a washing of a part of it. (q) Misn. Yoma, c. 3. sect. 3, 4, 6. Vid. Misn. Tamid, c. 1. sect. 1, 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:27 united with Christ in baptism: See Rom 6:3-4. Baptism represents death of an old life and birth into a new one. In the new life, the law’s curse no longer has any force (cp. Rom 7:1-6). • have put on Christ, like putting on new clothes: Christ covers us and gives us a new identity. Cp. Col 3:12; 1 Thes 5:8.