Paul’s Footsteps #53

Footsteps #53

The original Greek in v23 for ‘kept’(NASB) literally means “to guard.” In the NT it generally has a more positive sense of “protecting” or “keeping” (Phil.4:7, 1Pet.1:5).

The law was not a curse that God placed upon Israel, it was intended to be a blessing. Though its sacrificial sys­tem could not ultimately remove sin, it pointed to the promised Messiah who would, and its laws guiding human behaviour protected Israel from many of the vices that plagued other ancient civilizations. In light of Paul’s positive comments about the law elsewhere, it would be a mistake to understand his comments here negatively.

“Therefore the Law has become our guardian to lead us to Christ, so that we may be justified by faith.” Gal 3:24 NASB. The term ‘guardian’ (Greek paidagogos) was a slave in Roman society who was placed in a position of authority over his master’s sons from childhood until they reached maturity. In addition to providing for his charges’ physical needs, such as drawing their bath, providing them with food and clothes, and protecting them from any danger, the paidagogos also was responsible for making sure the master’s sons went to school and did their homework. In addition, he was expected not only to teach and practice moral virtues but also to ensure that the boys learned and practiced the virtues themselves.

Though some pedagogues must certainly have been kind as well as loved by their wards, the dominant description of them in ancient literature is as harsh disciplinarians who enforced obedience with threats, rebukes and by whipping and caning. Paul’s description of the law as a pedagogue further clarifies his understanding of the role of the law. The law was added to point out sin and provide instruction. The very nature of this task means that the law also has a negative aspect, and that’s because it rebukes and con­demns us as sinners. Yet, God uses even this “negative” aspect for our benefit, because the condemnation that the law brings, is what drives us to Christ. Thus, the law and the gospel are not contradictory. God designed them to work together for our salvation.   

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