Galatians 2:21
I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.
Galatians 2:21
Paul’s concluding statement in this section asserts that if righteousness comes by the Law, then Christ died for nothing. The logic is uncompromising: grace and the cross are either sufficient or they are not. If the Law could justify, there’d be no need for Jesus’ death. The verse is a strong indictment against any approach that reduces grace to partial obedience to law.
This verse tightens the theological framework: salvation is not earned; it is a gift purchased by Christ. The cross’s necessity is affirmed. It guards against diminishing grace and reaffirms the sufficiency of Christ’s atonement.
Approach life with gratitude for grace. Avoid legalistic tendencies that reduce faith to rule-keeping. Instead, live in responsive obedience—out of gratitude for Christ’s sacrifice. In your church community, emphasize grace while encouraging holiness—not as a means to earn favor, but as a grateful response to love.
Cross-References: Romans 3:28; Romans 5:15-21; Ephesians 2:8-10; Titus 3:4-7