The Identity and Means of Inclusion into the New Covenant People of God: An Exegetical Study of Galatians 3:1–9

Abstract

Galatians is at the heart of Pauline theology concerning justification by faith, an antithesis to righteousness that comes through the works of the law. Galatians discusses justification by faith alone as the means of inclusion into the new covenant people of God. This study employs a historical-grammatical approach to interpret Galatians 3:1–9 and explores its possible application. It also examines the New Perspective on Paul (NPP) concerning covenantal nomism and works righteousness theology (legalism). The main argumentation in the text is that acceptance before God or inclusion into the new covenant people of God is only by faith, with no addition or subtraction. The Spirit is a primary identity marker for those who have been accepted by God by faith in Christ Jesus. Gentiles have become members of Abraham’s family of faith since they have believed just as Abraham believed, thus God’s people. The blessing given to Abraham has now come to the believing Gentiles through Christ.