But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.

GALATIANS 3:22KJV
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Galatians 3:22 (KJV)

What does Galatians 3:22 mean?

Galatians 3:22 says that the Scriptures have declared everyone to be under the power of sin, so that the promise—received through faith in Jesus Christ—can be given to those who believe. The verse highlights that faith, not human effort, is the way people receive what God has promised.

Paul is writing to the churches in Galatia, explaining why the law was given and what its limits are. He points out that the law shows everyone is trapped by sin, but this sets the stage for God's promise to come through faith in Jesus. The verse helps clarify that the law's purpose was not to save, but to prepare people to receive salvation by trusting in Christ.

The Greek behind Galatians 3:22

  • "Concluded" (συνέκλεισεν, synekleisen): This Greek word means to "shut up together" or "confine." Paul uses it to show that Scripture has placed everyone in the same situation—under sin—so no one is left out or can claim to be righteous on their own.
  • "Under" (ὑπό, hypo): This word means being under the control or power of something. Here, it emphasizes that all people are under the power or authority of sin, not just influenced by it.
  • "Promise" (ἐπαγγελία, epangelia): This word refers to something pledged or assured by God. Paul stresses that this promise is not earned, but given.
  • "Faith" (πίστις, pistis): This Greek word means trust or belief. Paul highlights that it is through trusting Jesus Christ, not following the law, that people receive the promise.

Why Galatians 3:22 matters

  • Galatians 3:22 clears up the misunderstanding that the law could make someone right with God; instead, it shows the law's role was to reveal everyone's need for faith.
  • The verse emphasizes that God's promise is open to anyone who believes, not just to those who follow certain rules or belong to a specific group.
  • This verse connects to Paul's larger argument that faith in Jesus is the only way to receive God's promises, setting up the contrast between law and faith in the rest of the chapter.

Where else these words appear

“concluded” Greek G4788 · used in 4 verses

  • Luke 5:6 And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake.
  • Romans 11:32 For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that he might have mercy upon all.
  • Galatians 3:23 But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed.

“scripture” Greek G1124 · used in 51 verses

  • Matthew 21:42 Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes?
  • John 10:35 If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken;
  • Romans 9:17 For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth.

“promise” Greek G1860 · used in 51 verses

  • Luke 24:49 And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.
  • Romans 15:8 Now I say that Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers:
  • Hebrews 4:1 Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it.