Galatians 3:25
But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.
Galatians 3:25
“After that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster” signals the transition from the era governed by the law to the era of the Spirit’s indwelling through faith in Christ. With the coming of faith, believers are liberated from the custodial role of the law. The church sees this as the inaugurating of the new covenant era in which God’s people are led by the Spirit, not by external rules. The phrase “no longer under a schoolmaster” implies relational access to God through faith in Jesus, enabling a direct and intimate relationship with God, guided by the Spirit’s inner testimony rather than external rituals.
This verse foregrounds justification by faith and the life-giving work of the Spirit. It underscores the shift from external regulation to internal transformation. It preserves the law’s value but redefines its role within the new covenant: the moral law remains, but life is now lived by the Spirit who writes God’s law on believers’ hearts (Jeremiah 31:31-33; 2 Corinthians 3). It also guards against legalism and asserts the believer’s status as adopted children by faith.
Practically, living “not under a schoolmaster” means relying on the Spirit’s guidance rather than defaulting to rule-keeping. In daily decisions, invite the Spirit to illuminate, convict, and empower. For communities, foster environments where grace and truth are balanced—moral formation through the Spirit, not mere compliance. In personal growth, cultivate a relationship with God that seeks His voice, enjoys His presence, and embodies Christ-like character, not simply adheres to external standards.
Cross-References: Romans 8:14-17; Galatians 5:16-26; 2 Corinthians 3:17-18; Jeremiah 31:31-34; Hebrews 10:16-17