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Book of Galatians - Chapter 5 - Verse 4

5:4
Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace.

Meaning

In this verse from the book of Galatians, the apostle Paul is warning against relying on the law for justification rather than putting their faith in Christ. The law, referring to the Old Testament commandments, rituals, and sacrifices, cannot save anyone. By attempting to be justified by the law, individuals are essentially nullifying the sacrifice of Christ on the cross. This means that they are rejecting the grace of God and seeking their own righteousness through their actions. Paul is emphasizing that if someone believes they can earn their salvation through obedience to the law, they are turning away from the central message of Christianity - that salvation comes through faith in Christ alone. Therefore, those who try to be justified by the law are considered to have fallen from grace. This serves as a powerful reminder for believers to place their trust in Jesus Christ and the grace He offers rather than trying to earn their salvation through works.

Theological Overview

The theological interpretation of this verse, Galatians 5:4, highlights the tension between two key components of the Christian faith - justification by the law and grace. The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Galatians, warns against relying solely on the law for justification, as this undermines the central message of Christianity that salvation comes through faith in Christ alone. By seeking justification through the law, believers risk nullifying the power of Christ's sacrifice. The phrase "fallen from grace" underscores the danger of turning away from the grace of God in favor of legalistic practices. This verse serves as a reminder to Christians to place their trust in Christ and his redemptive work, rather than in their own efforts to follow the law.

American Standard Version

Ye are severed from Christ, ye who would be justified by the law; ye are fallen away from grace.
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