“The law was our guardian until Christ came; it protected us until we could be made right with God through faith” (Galatians 3:24 NLT).
The word “guardian” is from the Greek word “paidagōgós,” which might also be translated as “tutor” or “instructor.” During the 1st Century, wealthy persons would hire a servant to tutor their children, preparing them for adult life. When they grew up they were no longer under the tutor.
In the same manner, the law is our tutor, showing us right from wrong, and teaching us that we are sinners unable to fully follow God’s righteous commands. This reveals to us our need for a Savior. Consider these three important purposes of the law:
THREE “R”s OF THE LAW: (OR THREE “P”s)
1) Reflects our guilty condition (Like a perfect mirror).
2) Restrains our sinful behavior (Like a prison guard).
3) Reveals our need for a Savior (Like a pedagogue).
The law is good, but apart from Christ, it condemns us to death (See Rom. 7:12-14). For the law is spiritual and we are carnal, unless we are born again spiritually by faith in Jesus.
PRAYER: Dear Father, we love Your law because we have received Jesus as our Lord and He has written Your law upon our hearts. We no longer rebel against the law, nor do we depend on it. But we depend upon Your Holy Spirit to lead and guide us. We are thankful for Your grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.