King James Version

What Does Galatians 3:22 Mean?

“But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.”

Context

Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.

Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid : for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.

But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.

But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed.

Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.

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Topics in This Verse

Faith

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(22) **The scripture.**—Slightly personified. **Hath concluded.**—The same peculiar word occurs in Romans 11:32, with a similar sense. It means to “shut up,” “hem in,” “prevent from straying either to the right hand or to the left,” as a shepherd shuts up his flock in the fold. **All.**—This is put in the neuter gender, but only to give a more complete universality to the statement. What is meant is “all mankind.” **The promise by faith of Jesus Christ.**—The promise which originates in faith in Christ, which derives its fulfilment from faith, is due to faith.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Galatians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Galatians 3:22 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.