Commentary Insights
1. The Role of the Mediator
Matthew Henry articulates that the concept of a mediator is central to Paul's argument about the Law's function compared to the promise of faith. A mediator, by definition, exists between two parties, facilitating communication and agreement.
Henry emphasizes that in the case of the Law given at Sinai, there were multiple intermediarial roles — Moses enabled the communication between God and Israel. Therefore, this mediation pertains to the collective community rather than an individual covenant.
2. The Uniqueness of God
Albert Barnes expounds on the notion that God, as the only party involved in His covenant of grace with humanity, does not require a mediator. The divine promise of salvation is direct and not dependent on intermediaries. In contrast to the Law which necessitated mediation, God Himself is one, indicating unity and the singularity of His purpose.
Barnes draws attention to the significance of this unity, positing that the promise finds its fulfillment directly in God’s nature, where His unchanging will renders mediation unnecessary for the promise of eternal life.
3. Understanding "One" in Context
Adam Clarke examines the phrase "but God is one," suggesting it encompasses both the uniqueness of God's being and the singularity of His promises and commitments to humanity. Clarke highlights this oneness as a theological foundation, noting that while the Law involved multiple requirements and intermediaries, the promise of grace is singular, pointing towards Christ.
This assertion serves to reinforce the idea of God’s singular capability to provide grace without the layers of mediation found in the Law.
4. Theological Implications
The theological implications of Galatians 3:20 are profound. Henry posits that since God's singularity points to His sufficiency, believers can trust that their relationship with Him is direct and not contingent on human intercession. This notion liberates believers from the bondage of the Law and invites them into a relationship of faith that is based on God's promises rather than various mediatorial laws.
Barnes complements this thought by asserting that understanding God’s oneness encourages believers to approach Him directly, fostering a deeper personal relationship rather than a transactional one that is contingent upon mediators.
5. The Contrast of the Law and the Promise
The apostle's discourse in Galatians is often framed by contrasting the Law and the promise. Clarke implies that the role of the Law was inherently transient, serving to reveal sin and guide until Christ came, making the mediator concept of the Law obsolete. This commentary suggests that understanding Galatians 3:20 requires recognizing the historical and spiritual role of the Law and how Christ fulfills these purposes.
6. Practical Applications
In light of this verse, believers are encouraged to rest in the sufficiency of Christ without feeling burdened by the Law's demands. Believers can approach God confidently, understanding that their relationship is secured through faith alone. This empowerment can fundamentally transform how one engages in evangelism, teaching, and personal discipleship.
- Encourage Direct Access to God: As the mediator's necessity diminishes, believers should be encouraged to approach God directly in prayer and worship.
- Reinforce the Grace over Law Principle: Promoting an understanding of grace can free believers from feelings of inadequacy derived from adherence to Old Testament Law.
- Foster Unity in Christ: Since God is one, this inherent unity should reflect in the body of Christ, promoting harmony among believers.
