Definition: [Is] the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Galatians 3:21. It’s a really important and often confusing verse, so we'll go through it step-by-step. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: "Is the law then against the promises of God?" – This is asking if the law, which is rules and regulations set by God, is actually harming or disrupting the good things God has promised us. “God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.” – This is the core of the argument. It’s essentially saying: “If God had given us a law to guarantee righteousness (living a good and moral life), then that law should have led us to follow God's will perfectly. But it seems like this law didn't do that; instead, it actually hindered our ability to live a truly righteous life." Let’s unpack the idea a little: The Bible is teaching about grace – God’s freely given forgiveness and love for us, without needing us to earn it through good works. Galatians 3:21 is saying that the law, in its strict application, can actually block our ability to understand and truly experience God's love and goodness. Think of it this way: The law tells you what to do – be honest, don’t steal, treat others with respect. But it doesn’t tell you how to be good. It focuses on rules, not on the spirit of loving our neighbor as ourselves. The Context is Key: This verse comes about during a time when Paul was facing persecution for his teaching. He's highlighting a potential problem: If we relied solely on the law, it might make us less likely to love God and others – because we’d be focused on following rules instead of understanding God’s will. In short, Galatians 3:21 is a warning against focusing too much on rules and regulations, and reminding us that true righteousness comes from a relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ. --- Do you want me to: Explain it further with an analogy? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Answer any specific questions you might have about it?