The Crucified Messiah

Paul challenges the men from Jerusalem who were compelling Gentile Christians to conform to Jewish customs, including circumcision – Galatians 2:15-21. What identifies the people of God and determines membership in His covenant community is Christ, especially the Messiah who has been revealed on the Cross. Jews and Gentiles are justified through Jesus and his death, and nothing else !

Paul’s references to justification from works have a specific category of works in view, the works required by the Mosaic Law . Sin is the Great Leveler that places everyone in the same predicament: Bondage to sin now, and death and divine wrath later. No one is exempt from the penalty of sin, but God has graciously provided a way to avoid the everlasting effects of our sinful acts.