Barnes church of Christ

If there is agreement on any Bible subject, it Is that faith is necessary to be saved. Some believe in “faith only;” as all a person must do to be saved is just believe. Some believe that “repentance” comes before faith, which is strange doctrine, as why would a person repent, if he did not believe. There is a passage which reads: “And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel” (Mark 1:15). We have often pointed out that context must be understood if the passage is to be understood and this is one such text. Who was Jesus addressing? He was addressing the Jews before his death. They were sinners and needed to repent of their sins so they could be ready for the gospel. This was before Pentecost, which is covered in Acts chapter two. Jesus was trying to prepare their hearts for the gospel which would come later, but without repentance they would not be ready for it. All things must be read in the context in which it appears! We are believing unto Abraham’s bosom.
Faith is a most comforting thing! Just think for a moment. When we stand as the body of a loved one who is being put into the ground; if there is no faith on our part, then, we are standing at the end! I mean the end as there is nothing else for that loved one, we are putting into the ground, our faith stands before all else! A life lived without faith in the word of God is a most miserable life. First, we must believe in God; then, we must believe the Bible is the inspired word of God; then, we must believe the gospel; and we believe that our spiritual life rests in “the teaching of Christ” (2 John 9). This believing brings us to Christ who is our salvation!
For, Paul wrote: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith” (Rom.1:16-17) We will not write anything on this text, as we have written eleven articles on it. However, it does show that believing is necessary to our salvation. The gospel and salvation go together, just as faith and salvation go together. Believing is required, as it leads us to repentance, which leads us to confess that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Our confession takes us to baptism which is where we come to salvation. Now, it is understood that some do not believe that baptism is necessary to salvation; however, Peter wrote: “The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us, …” (1 Pet. 3:21). It is in baptism that we put on Christ, as Paul wrote: “For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ” (Gal.l 3:27). It is here that we learn that we are all one in Christ; for Paul continues to write: “there is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus” (Gal. 3:28).
In all of this, we have learned the place of “our faith” in our salvation! At the same time, we have learned that it is never faith only, but faith runs all through our salvation there is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
Anytime we stop believing the gospel we have lost our salvation! By removing our faith, we have put something else in its place, but there is no salvation without faith in the gospel of Christ! Thus, we have seen how faith leads us unto salvation.

Frank R. Williams

Having written several articles on “From faith to faith,” it seemed only right that I write an article or two on our personal faith. Let us realize that no two people will have the same, identical faith; meaning that no two people have the same amount of the word of God living in them; thus, no two people believe the same thing in the largest context of faith. Even if we all sit under the same teacher, we would not all learn the same amount of what was being taught. However, that being said, there are things we all must believe and here, we all believe the same things, the more knowledge, the more faith!
With the above in mind, let us turn our attention to a most beautiful text, which reads: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good report” (11:1-2). The number of articles written and the volume of sermons that have been preached on this text could fill a library. For me to think that I can cover it in one article is most presumptuous of me, to think that I can do so in one article; therefore, expect more than one article.
Chapter eleven starts with the word “now,” as in continuing in faith and reveals what “faith” is as used in the inspired scripture is now seen; therefore, it is the “substance.” Faith is built upon what we have not seen but is nevertheless, the substance, the Greek “hupostasis” and “a setting under (support)” (Strong) of our faith. Thus, “faith” in one sense is the foundation upon which other things are built that relate to our salvation. It is remarkable how some people look at faith, but these are far from the faith as revealed in the Bible.
Now, to the text we shall go! First question: “Have you ever wondered just what the “now” means in this text? More than likely your answer is, “no!” But this is the stuff that articles and sermons are made of. The Greek word is “de” or “deh,” which is “A primary particle (adversative or continuative); but, and, etc.: – also, and, but, moreover, now [often unexpressed in English].” (Strong). Here it is not looked over but is in the text, and identities a continuation of the thought at the end of chapter ten, which reads: “But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.” Chapter ten ends with believing and not drawing back unto perdition. Therefore, chapter eleven reveals what faith is and what it does in us. Of course, the most well-known is verse six: “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” Thus, our salvation stands upon our faith, as in what we believe! There is no room for what is called “a leap in the dark” kind of faith which is no faith at all. Our writer clearly states that “faith is the substance of things hoped for” but “hope” describes something we do not now have; nevertheless, we firmly stand upon it! This reveals the importance of “faith,” as defined in scripture! It stands upon what we have not seen! Nevertheless, we believe in it! “Faith” is also “the evidence of things not seen.” The Greek word used here is “elegchos” and means “proof, conviction.” Does your life reveal enough that someone would convince another to take a look at why you believe as you do? It should! As “faith is the substance of things, hoped for!” Hope is something you do not have but you are patiently waiting for! If there is no “substance” there is no real faith, as it is only make believe! There are folks who even gladly boast that their faith is “a leap in the dark!” The inspired writers of the New Testament knew nothing of such! Just how do you justify your faith? Is it, “Better felt than told?” The writer of the Hebrew letter knew nothing, no not one thing, of such! Paul did write that some had removed themselves from the gospel of Christ unto something else, but it was never the gospel of Christ in the first or even in the second place!
Yes, we will write at least one more article under the above title. Of course, you knew this at the beginning, “Yes!” Faith is truly a great subject and yet is so greatly miss-understood! Remember, without faith, there is no pleasing, no acceptability, with God! Do you believe, have faith, that God is? What is your evidence? Is your faith so evidenced that you can convince another that God exists?

Frank R. Williams

Let me try to reach a conclusion on the subject under which we have been writing in the last ten articles. It should go without writing it, but we will, nevertheless more needs to be written as there is no good place to stop. Nevertheless, we will conclude this series of articles with number eleven.
There are those who “believe” that they can have faith without “the faith.” However, our personal faith is limited to our knowledge of “the faith.” As Paul wrote: “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” It is interesting that the Greek word translated “hearing” is the same as the word translated “report” in verse sixteen. Therefore, we are free to write that the “hearing” is the thing heard; it is a noun not a verb. Therefore, faith comes by the gospel. After all, where else would we expect to get our faith? It is easy to see that “from faith to faith” is always truth! Your faith can only be as good as “the faith” is in you! Draw two lines, one marked “the faith” and the other marked “your faith.” People would like to believe that their faith goes beyond “the faith,” but how can this be; as faith comes out of “the faith.” Some people think that their faith can run past their knowledge of the word of God, but it cannot be so! Remember, it “from faith unto faith.”
When it comes to testing your faith, it cannot be tested beyond “the faith” that is in you! Therefore, your faith is a test of how much “the faith” is in you! Keep in mind we do not believe in a “leap in the dark!” You really do not believe that faith “is a leap in the dark,” do you? Or do you hold that you can have a faith that is “a leap in the dark” but not other people? “Faith” is a funny thing when it really comes to what one believes! Some would say, that “it is better felt that told!” Is this what you really believe but you would not like to admit it?
Let us go to Abraham and his being willing to offer-up Isaiah. Abraham was willing to offer up Isaac, as he knew that God had promised that his son through Sarah would bless all nations! Therefore, if Abraham offers up Isaac, then God would have to bring him back to life, based on his promise! Abraham’s faith did not go beyond the word of God! Abraham was not working on a “leap into the dark” but walking according to the word of God!” In Abraham’s case it was the word of God, then, to Abraham’s faith! It was not “from faith to faith,” as “the faith” had not been delivered. But it is nevertheless, “from the word of God unto faith.” Some things do not change!
Noah built the ark by faith! But it was not “the faith” that Noah followed, as “the faith” had not been delivered, as that would have to wait until the New Testament was “delivered unto the saint” (Jude 3). Nevertheless, Noah walked by faith, as God had spoken to him! Noah’s faith was not a “leap into the dark!” Here is what is written in Hebrews: “By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.” Did you notice it? Noah being warned of God of things.” Noah, nevertheless, walked by faith, but it was not “the faith” as “the faith” would have to wait unto “the faith” had come.
In one respect Abraham did walk by faith, but it was not “the faith.” “By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.” (Heb. 11:8). Did Abraham walk by a “leap in the dark?” No, he did not! He followed the word spoken to him by God and he by faith went into a land he did not know but God had spoken to him; therefore, Abraham “walked by faith” but not “the faith.” Are you willing to say that Abraham walked as a “leap in the dark? “God forbid!” Walking in the “dark,” is never walking where God had directed!
The writer of Hebrews wrote: “These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.” Much like we, who stand by the grave of a loved one, may all die before the coming of the Lord, but we will “died in faith” for God has spoken. The words of Paul will go just here: “But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout,” and with those who died in faith; thus, the faithful!

Frank R. Williams

Is it “faith” as in “the faith” or is it “faith” as in my “faith?” This is the question of the day! As in the other nine articles, we will continue to deal with this question in Galatians the third chapter. “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” (Gal. 3:21). It is only natural if you are a Hebrew in the first century and have been living under and faithful to “the law of Moses” as it is addressed in the question by Paul, a Hebrew!
The answer to Paul’s question: “is the law of Moses,” “against the promises of God?” God is never against himself in what he says or what he had others to write! There are some, who try to justify their man-made teaching, who put “the teaching of Christ,” equal to saying “God’s teaching is against itself!” (2 John 9). We do our absolute best never to do such! So clearly has Paul stated, that the law of Moses is never, no, not in even one point against “the teaching of Christ!”
Now, let us move to the next verse in Galatians chapter three: “if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.” (verse 21). We already know that “righteousness” comes from “the gospel of Christ;” here is what Paul wrote on this subject: “the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth … For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith” (Rom.1:16-17). Therefore, the law of Moses was totally unable to bring righteousness, salvation! Once this truth is learned, it needs never to be brought up again! Remembering that truth never contradicts itself! Therefore, moving on with our subject: From faith to (unto) faith!”
Now, here is the second most natural question: “Wherefore then serveth the law?” Gal. 3:19). So, how serveth the law?” Let Paul answer the second question: “It was added because of transgressions.” Here Paul continues: The third question now long would the old law continue, Paul answers: “till the seed should come to whom the promise was made.” Remembering “the seed” is Christ Jesus! Paul now writes: “and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.” Before continuing, allow me to make a point that is so often totally overlooked? Who are the “angels” who “ordained” the law of Moses? The Greek word for “angels” is “aggelos” and means, “messenger” (Strong). So, who are the “messengers?” The messengers” are the Old Testament profits! How else do the Hebrews and ourselves get the words of the Old Testament, wherein was “the promise?” Just for the fun of it, this question: “How do you know about the promise?” The law, as a “schoolmaster” gently took the hand of the Hebrew and put it in the “hand” of Jesus who is the “mediator” of verse 19. Moses no longer leads but Jesus Christ does!
Here is verse twenty-one: “But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.” Just here, let us answer another question dealing with the word “faith” (pistis).” What “faith” does Paul have in mind here as he uses the Greek “pistis?” Is it our faith, or is it “the faith?” We can say that there is no definite article before the word “faith.” This by itself does not remove our question, that Paul is not writing about “the faith,” the context is the final word on the meaning of how a word is used. Read the text once more: “the faith of Jesus Christ” is not his personal faith but that which he delivered, “the teaching of Christ.” Read the next verse just here: “But before faith came,” the “faith” that Paul is writing of, is one that “came;” once it was not but now it is here! Put on your “deep thinking cap,” as Paul writes: “That the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.” Here we have “the faith” that “came” put with “believing; thus, from the body of “the faith” to our believing. Therefore, it is as we conclude the article, “from the faith unto faith – believing!”
“But before faith came” (verse 23). Now “the faith” has “came” and is what we live under today, as they did to whom Paul is writing directly. Keep in mind, that Paul is continuing his thought of verse twenty-two, “that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.” It is “from faith to (unto) faith!” “But before (the, frw) faith came.”
More is coming in the next article!

Frank R. Williams

You may have noticed that the words under which we have been writing have changed from article to article. Why is this? It is because the Greek word translated “to” and “unto” is “ace” and may be translated to the English “to,” “unto,” or “for,” as it often is, such as in Acts 2:38, “for the remission of sins.” The context may determine which is the best English word to convey the thought in the text. For the most part, all three may do so, while the English “for” may be the weakest as the word “for” may be translated “because” which has no part in the other two words.
We need to back up just a little in this article on the subject “from faith to faith” in order to make a point or two. Starting with Galatians chapter three, verse eighteen: “For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.” (chapter 3). Here the Greek word translated “for” is “gar,” which is one of my favorite little Greek words. This word gives the reason why the preceding verse is truth. Therefore, notice verse seventeen: “And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect.” Here is the reason for verse eighteen being true; it is because of: “For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.” The “promise” God gave to Abraham was before the law was. In one respect, we might see it this way: “the promise” of a blessing coming through “the seed of Abraham” was given before the law of Moses came into being, “the promise” leaped “frogged” over the law and landed in Christ! The people who received the promised, were all three: 1) Abraham, 2) Isaac, and 3) Jacob, each one before the law; thus, having no part of the law of Moses. Therefore, Paul wrote: “For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.” This is an important point; therefore, the Holy Spirit put it here in Galatians.
Paul now asked a most natural question: “Wherefore then serveth the law?” (verse 19). The law of Moses had a most important purpose, as Paul now answers: “It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made.” It was “added,” the Greek “prostithemi” which means: “to place additionally, that is, lay beside.” There was “the promise” and running side by side with the “law of Moses.” The law aided “the promise” to run its course and arrive at Jesus, the Christ, who is the promised “seed.” Now notice has Paul completed his point: “to place additionally, that is, lay beside. The point here “the promise” ran a long side of the law but was not part of it. Just for your information, let me make this point that is so often just read over; the pronoun “it” refers to the words “the promise.” “It was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.” The word “angels” means messengers, the prophets. One more point just here as the Holy Spirit said: “it was in the hand of a mediator.” We know what a “mediator” is as it is used today; however, it is the Greek “mesites” and means, “go between.” This “mediator” was to serve alongside of the law until “the seed” should come. The “promise” and the law of Moses ran along side of each other until “the seed” should come. “The seed” is Jesus Christ!
Now, let us get back to our point of these articles, as Paul now asks a most important point, and it is a natural point: “Is the law then against the promises of God?” Was it? Here Paul used two of my favorite words, “God forbid,” which is the Greek “ginomai” and means: “to cause to be.” As you can see, the Greek word does not carry the idea of the English! God caused it to be! What did God cause to be? Paul answers: “for if there had been a law given which could have given life.” The Greek word “gar” is used by Paul, which is a reason that it is true: “if there had been a law given which could have given life.” Was there such a “law?” Here Paul writes: “verily righteousness should have been by the law.” Was there such a law? No! As in “God forbid!” The apostle continued with: “verily righteousness should have been by the law.” Is this the reason? Yes, it is in every way! However, we already know that Paul had written in Romans: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek” For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek” (Rom. 1:16-17). The “righteousness of God” is in “the gospel of Christ which is God’s power unto salvation or righteousness!” Here the apostle makes the point: “But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.” Here our question is: is this “the promise of the faith,” or is it “the promise of faith?” I do believe you can see that even without the article “the faith” is the intent but lo and behold the article “the” is in the text! The word translated “by” is the Greek “ek:” we know it is “out of the,” and in the case here, “out of the faith!? The “promise” of the faith, and what else could it be, but by “the faith” as it was not through the law of Moses, as the promise ran beside the law of Moses and was not within it! Paul is addressing “the faith once for all time delivered unto the saints” (Jude 3).
As we conclude this article, let me point out, that, “the faith” was so that we might “believe!” There is our “From (the) faith to (unto our) faith!!

Frank R. Williams

In this article we will be looking at another text in which the article “the” appears in the Majority Text but not in our King James Version. More than likely it does not appear in the other versions as well. The passage is James chapter one and verse three.
The article “the” in this text changes the whole meaning of the text, but when viewed in the passage, in one way does not change the totality of the meaning of the passage in the whole. So what text is it that has the definite article “the” that changes the meaning, yet when looked at in the whole, does not change the meaning of the text? It is, of course, James chapter one and verse three. This is written to get your mind on the text, to see what you generally see within it, then, putting the definite article “the” before the word “faith?” Now, it is time to read the text, James wrote: “James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting. My brethren count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience” (James 1:1-3). Most of us have read and heard these read in many sermons and Bible chasses over the years. We have been taught the word “faith” is addressing our “faith.” Certainly, this is true but there is a greater meaning in this text that has gone unnoticed in such teaching!
So, as we read verse three again, we will put the definite article before the word “faith,” and see if it has a deeper meaning than is generally taught! Now verse three with the definite article before the word “faith.” James wrote: “Knowing this, that the trying of your the faith worketh patience.” The part we are interested in are these words: “the trying of your the faith working patience.” Where do we start? It is “the faith” working in you, which requires “the faith” within you! In other words, just how does “the faith” work within you? You see, we must start with “the faith” in you before it can work within you! This would require study on our part, hearing the word preached and taught as this in “the faith” within us! If “the faith” is not in us, nothing takes place; there is no growing in “the faith” which Peter demands, as he wrote: “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen” (2 Pet. 3:18). “The faith” must first be within us before it can work within us. Put a Bible on the coffee table, never open it, as you just look at it over the years! Does it put “the faith” within us? No, no, nothing happens to us, “the faith” never will grow within us unless the Bible is studied and as we study “the faith” grows in us, then, we know that “the faith” will work in our minds, hearts, and “patience” will grow with in us. The word “patience” is the Greek “hupomone,” and means “endurance.” If “the faith” is not in us, there will be no “endurance,” within us!
We may have many things within us, but only “the faith” has the ability to produce “endurance” as is necessary! This is so true in all that God requires of us, but it all begins with “the faith” in your heart/mind and study is the only way we can get “the faith” in our minds/hearts!
James has written what we all knew but had never put it into words, “From faith as in the faith” which once for all time was delivered unto the saints in the first century! Now think on this, it is “from the faith unto our faith!”
When you study “the faith” keep these thoughts in mind and see if your faith will grow and you will become a more mature child of God!

Frank R. Williams

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also the Greek, For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith as it is written, The just shall live by faith.” (Rom. 1:16-17)
This is the full text from which our subject is taken: “From faith to faith.” It is “from faith” that was once delivered (Jude 3) to our faith; that we believe. One is objective, never subject to change; while the second, our personal faith is subjective and is necessarily subject to change. The more we learn of the Bible the greater our faith; the more we learn, the greater our faith has grown, as Peter wrote his last inspired words: “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Too him be glory both now and for ever” (2 Pet. 3:18). It is a requirement that our “faith” grow, if we are to be pleasing to God. All that I write is in the vein of pleasing our God!
First, as we continue to look at Galatians chapter three. The “faith” is not a word pointing at our personal faith, but the faith by which we are saved, when we obey the gospel. Therefore: “And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through (the, frw) faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed” (verse 8). The word, “through faith”, refers to “the faith” once delivered to the saints as Jude wrote. Second, “So then they which be of faith,” refers to “the faith” once delivered to the saints as Jude wrote. And they are “blessed with faithful Abraham” (verse 9). Once more the words “faith” refers to the faith, the written faith! And this is the way to be blessed with faithful Abraham (verse 9). Third, “But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, It is evident: for, The just shall live by faith” (verse 11). Here Paul wrote “the just,” which is the same as “The just shall live by faith,” of Romans chapter one verse seventeen: “The just shall live by (the, frw) faith” Then, the apostle writes: “And the law is not of (the, frw) faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them” (Gal 3: 12). Here the words are “the law (of Moses, frw) is not of (the, frw) faith but, The man that doeth them shall live in them.” If one is going to live by the old law, he is bound to do all of it, not just a part of it! No one living today, follows all of it, no, not even the Jews in Israel!! The blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive “the promise of the Spirit through (the, frw) faith” (verse 14). It is here, that Paul pointed out, that those who receive “the promise of the Spirit,” which is a reference to the promise God made in Genesis, generally speaking, this is a reference to “the promise” God made to Abraham, that through his seed would all, both Hebrews and Gentiles, receive the promise God made to Abraham. This is seen when Paul wrote in verse fourteen: “That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit” which the Gentiles’ could now receive by “the faith!” Now, notice what the apostle writes: “Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made!”
Now, turning our attention to verse eighteen, which reads: “For if the inheritance be of the law, It is no more of promise but God gave it to Abraham by promise.” The inheritance” is what God promised Abraham and it is received through the gospel, which is “God’s power unto salvation.” (Rom. 1:16) and it is “from the faith to faith.”
Here let us conclude by saying, that “from (the, frw) faith to faith (our personal faith, our personal belief). The argument is that salvation is through Christ by means of “the faith.” This is the same as we wrote in the last article. Therefore, “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.” God is elevating Christ, the gospel, the “faith!”
We shall continue this study in the next article if it is God’s will!

Galatians chapter three is a great chapter in the Abrahamic Promise! It is also a very demanding chapter on “the faith” once delivered unto the saints (Jude). In this article we hope to reach the end of the chapter, as Paul does so beautifully.
Our first point that Paul has brought to our attention is that the faith had come, as he wrote: “But before faith came, …” (verse 23). If something had “came;” we know at least two things: 1) there was a time before the coming of it and 2) there is a period where the faith was or shall we say, “is?” Paul describes the period of time before the “faith” had come. He does so in these words: “But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed” (verse 23). We must stop and call attention to the pronoun in this verse, Paul uses the pronoun “we,” as in “we were kept under the law.” So, we must face the fact that we today are not included in the “we” of Paul’s words. However, over the years I have heard preacher after preacher and Bible class teacher after Bible class teacher, teach that this “we’ includes us today! Simply stated, we today are included in Paul’s “we.” Friends, it just is not true! How do I know this? Hear Paul: “we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards (notice Paul’s “afterwards;” this means there is a before) be revealed.” Two periods of time covered in Paul’s words: 1) the age of Moses and 2) the age of Christ, wherein Christ is the law giver. It was the Jews and not the Gentiles as Paul has so clearly stated, “kept under the law!” We today have never been under the law; therefore, we are not included in Paul’s “we!”
Paul further describes that period of time in these words: “Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.” There was no “justification under the law of Moses, as “justification” is in “the gospel of Christ!” Rom. 1:16-17). Once more before continuing, that we today are not included in Paul’s “us!” The “we” and the “us” are the same people, the Jews! Here is what Paul wrote and we would be amiss, if we did not point it out, that as Paul’s words state: “Wherefore the law was our (the Jews) schoolmaster.” Question: “What was the “schoolmaster?” Paul had just written, “the law was our schoolmaster.” The law was like a slave who oversaw a child’s growth and education, to see that the child received the right education. Therefore, as you read this, envision a slave who is responsible for the education of the child, here the Jews, the “schoolmaster” was to lead the child through the years until he could put the child (the Jews) hand’s until he could put that hand in the hand of Christ! This was the overriding purpose of the law of Moses, as it was in force unto the law of Christ was set forth.
Paul now writes: “But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster” (verse 25). Did you notice the words, “after that faith is come.” Yes, the Greek word “the” is in the Greek Majority Text. It is “the faith is come!” There was a time when “the faith” was not present but Paul says it had now come, it was a reality! When “the faith” had come, then, the Jews were no longer under a schoolmaster, as they were now under the “the faith!” Moving to verse twenty-six, which reads: “For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.” Yes, once more the “the” appears before the word “faith,” this means, it is referring to “the faith” which was once delivered unto the saints (Jude 3).
Paul has now reached the climax of the third chapter. This is done in verses twenty-seven and twenty-eight and concluding in verse twenty-eight and thirty-nine. Here are the words: “For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.” Here Paul’s aims, to show that it is Christ, in the gospel of Christ and not Moses for where salvation, justification, is in Christ! Here we must keep in mind, that Paul is addressing the Jews, he is reminding them, how they became children of God and it is in the gospel of Christ, it is Christ! In verse twenty-seven, Paul gives the reason, as it starts with that little Greek word “gar,” and it gives the reason for the above; therefore, “For,” “for” what? “For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ” (verse 27). The reason for giving up Moses, the “schoolmaster” is that there is no salvation in Moses! ,Only those who have been baptized into Christ, are the children of God and no more! Yes, it is true that “baptism” stands between being in Christ and out of Christ. Is there salvation out of Christ? “God forbid!”
Concluding with Paul’s words: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus” (verse 27). In Christ we are one, we have all been saved in the same manner, by obeying the same gospel, which puts us in Christ! Therefore, Paul wrote: “And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.” Here are those words “the promise.” Yes, the promise that God made to Abraham is fulfilled when we, both Jew and Gentile, are baptized into Christ, wherein we are all one!

Frank R. Williams

Is it “faith” as in “the faith” or is it “faith” as in my “faith?” This is the question of the day! As in the other four articles, we will continue to deal with this question in Galatians the third chapter. “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” (Gal. 3:21). It is only natural if you are a Hebrew in the first century and have been living under and faithful to “the law of Moses” as it is addressed in the question by Paul, a Hebrew!
The answer to Paul’s question: “is the law of Moses,” “against the promises of God?” God is never against himself, in what he says or what he had others to write! There are some, who try to justify their man-made teaching, who put “the teaching of Christ,” equal to saying “God’s teaching” against itself! (2 John 9). We do our absolute best never to do such! Oh, so clearly has Paul stated, that the law of Moses is never, no, not in even one point against “the teaching of Christ!”
Now, let us move to the next verse in Galatians chapter three: “if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.” (verse 21). We already know that “righteousness” come from “the gospel of Christ;” here is what Paul wrote on this subject: “the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth … For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith” (Rom.1:16-17). Therefore, the law of Moses was totally unable to bring righteousness, salvation! Once this truth is learned, it needs never to be brought up again! Remembering that truth never contradicts itself! Therefore, moving on with our subject: From faith to (unto) faith!”
Now here is the second most natural question: “Wherefore then serveth the law?” Gal. 3:19). So, why serveth the law?” Let Paul answer the second question: “It was added because of transgressions.” Here Paul continues: “The third question how long would the old law continue, Paul answers: “till the seed should come to whom the promise was made.” Remembering “the seed” is Christ Jesus! Paul now writes: “and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.” Before continuing, allow me to make a point that is so often totally overlooked? Who are the “angels” who “ordained” the law of Moses? The Greek word for “angels” is “aggelos” and means, “messenger” (Strong). So, who are the “messengers?” The messengers” are the Old Testament prophets! How else did the Hebrews and ourselves get the words of the Old Testament, wherein was “the promise?” Just for the fun of it, this question: “How do you know about the promise?” The law, as a “schoolmaster” gently took the hand of the Hebrew and put in the “hand” of Jesus who is the “mediator” of verse 19.
Here is verse twenty-one: “But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.” Just here, let us answer another question dealing with the word “faith” (pistis).” What “faith” does Paul have in mind here as he uses the Greek “pistis?” Is it our faith, or is it “the faith?” We can say that there is no finite article before the words “faith.” This by itself does remove the question, that Paul is not writing about “the faith,” as the context is the final word on the meaning of how a word is used. Read the text once more: “the faith of Jesus Christ” is not his personal faith but that which he delivered, “the teaching of Christ.” Read the next verse twice: “But before faith came,” “before faith came.” The “faith” that Paul is writing of, is one that “came;” once it was not but now it is here! Do not pull out your deep “thinking caps” just let Paul help us here, as he writes: “That the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.” Here we have “the faith” that “came” put with “believing;” thus, from the body of faith to our believing. Therefore, it is as we conclude the article, “from faith unto faith – believing!”
“But before faith came” (verse 23). “the faith” has come and is what we live under today, as they did, to whom Paul is writing directly. Keep in mind, that Paul is continuing his thought of verse twenty-two, “that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.” It is “from faith to (unto) faith! “But before (the, frw) faith came.”
More is coming in the next article!

Frank R. Williams

You may have noticed that words under which we have been writing have changed from article to article. Why is this? It is because the Greek word translated “to” and “unto” is “ace” and may be translated to the English “to,” “unto,” “by” “for,” as it often is, such as in Acts 2:38, “for the remission of sins.” The context may determine which is the best English word to convey the thought in the text. Through for the most part, all four may do so, while the English “for” may be the weakest.
We need to back up just a little in this article on the subject “from faith unto faith” in order to make a point or two. Starting with verse eighteen: “For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.” (chapter 3). Here the Greek word translated “for” is “gar,” which is one of my favorite little Greek words. This word gives the reason why the preceding verse is truth. Therefore, notice verse seventeen: “And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect.” Here is the reason for verse eighteen being true; it is because of: “For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.” “The “promise” God gave to Abraham way before the law was. In one respect, we might see it this: “the promise” of a blessing coming through “the seed of Abraham” was given before the law of Moses came into being, before it was! It leap “frogged” over the law and landed in Christ! The three people who received the promised, were all three: 1) Abraham, 2) Isaac, and 3) Jacob, each one before the law; thus, no part of the law of Moses. Therefore, Paul wrote: “For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.” This is an important point; therefore, the Holy Spirit made here is Galatians.
Paul now asked a most natural question: “Wherefore then serveth the law?” (verse 19). The law of Moses had a most important purpose, as Paul now answers: “It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made.” It was “added,” the Greek “prostithemi” which means: “to place additionally, that is, lay beside.” In other words, there was “the promise” and running with it was the “law of Moses.” The law aided “the promise” to run its course and arrive at Jesus, the Christ, who is the promised “seed.” Now notice as Paul completed his point: “to place additionally, that is, lay beside. The point here “the promise” ran a long side of the law but was not part of it. Just for your information, let me make this point that is so often just read over; the pronoun “it” refers to the words “the promise.” “It was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.” The word “angels” means messagers, the prophets. One more point just here as the Holy Spirit said: “it was in the hand of a mediator.” We know what a “mediator” as it is used today; however, it is the Greek “mesites” and means, “go between.” This “mediator” would to serve. The “promise” and the law of Moses ran along side of each other until “the seed” should come. “The seed” was Jesus Christ!
Now, let us get back to our point of these artricles, as Paul now makes a most important point, and it is a natural point: “Is the law then against the promises of God?” Was it? Here Paul used two of my favorite, “God forbid,” which is the Greek “ginomai” and means: “to cause to be.” As you can see, the Greek word does not carry the idea of the English, however! God “caused it to be! What did God cause to be? Paul answers: “for if there had been a law given which could have given life.” The Greek word “gar” is the Greek used by Paul, which is a reason that it is true: “if there had been a law given which could have given life.” Was there such a “law?” Here Paul writes: “verily righteousness should have been by the law.” Was there such a law? No! As in “God forbid!” The apostle continued with: “verily righteousness should have been by the law.” Is this not reason? Yes, it is in every way! However, we already know that Paul had written in Romans: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek” (Rom. 1:16-17). The “righteousness of God” is in “the gospel of Christ which is God’s power unto salvation or righteousness!” Here the apostle makes the point: “But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.” Here our question is: is this “the promise of the faith,” or is it “the promise of faith?” I do believe you can see that even without the article “the faith is the intent but lo and behold” the article is “the” in the text! The word translated “by” is the Greek “ek:” we know it is “out of the,” and in the case here, “out of the faith!? The “promise” of the faith, and what else could it be, but by “the faith” as it was not through the law of Moses, as the promise ran beside the law of Moses and was not within it! Paul is addressing “the faith once for all time delivered unto the saints (Jude 3). Before concluding this article, let me point out, that, “the faith” was so that we might “believe!” There is our “From faith to (unto) faith!!

Frank R. Williams