Galatians 3:6-9

Please read the passage first.

This passage his the first part of his second argument in favor of his gospel and in opposition to the argument of his opponents. The argument is a positive argument, in that makes the affirmative case that the Scripture, properly read, is the basis for salvation by faith, apart from the works of the Law. The argument assumes respect for Scripture, and is thus, an argument from scriptural authority. Clearly, Paul assumes that his readers share, with him, regard for what the Scripture says. His opponents apparently connected being a child of Abraham through obedience to the Law, but especially circumcision. Essentially, Paul introduces his distinctive understanding of salvation history, one that begins with Abraham. He was a child of faith, and therefore becomes the father, the ancestor, of all those who have faith. His primary reference is to Genesis 15:6. Paul wants to make the point, scripturally, that if Gentiles have faith in Christ, if they believe the gospel, they share in the same affirmation of Abraham. The blessing they receive is that of justification, of being right with God.