Christ Redeemed Us from the Curse (Galatians 3:13-14)

Scripture: Galatians 3:13-14

Today’s Word

Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a pole.” He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit. (Galatians 3:13-14, NIV)

Background

Key Terms Made Simple

• Curse: God’s judgment and punishment upon those who fail to keep the law perfectly. The result of sin is separation from God and eternal death
• Redeem: To purchase freedom for a slave or prisoner by paying a price. Jesus paid the price through His death on the cross to set us free from sin and the curse
• Hung on a pole: An expression referring to crucifixion. According to Deuteronomy 21:23, anyone hung on a tree was considered cursed by God
• Abraham’s blessing: The blessing God promised to Abraham—that through his offspring all nations on earth would be blessed (Genesis 12:3)
• Spirit: God’s Spirit. He dwells in those who believe in Jesus, making us God’s children and transforming us to be holy

Key Expressions to Notice

1. “Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us”
2. “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a pole”
3. “In order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles”

Main Points of the Text

1. Jesus’s Substitutionary Death: Christ freed us from the curse by taking the curse of the law upon Himself on the cross. Jesus fully bore the punishment we deserved for failing to keep the law.
2. Universal Path to Salvation: Now the blessing promised to Abraham has come not only to Jews but also to Gentiles. Anyone can become God’s child not through keeping the law but through faith in Jesus Christ.
3. Fulfillment of the Spirit’s Promise: Through Jesus’s death, we receive the Holy Spirit by faith. The Spirit confirms that we are God’s children and produces fruit within us.

Applying to My Life

1. Confession of Gratitude: Start each day remembering “Jesus died on the cross in my place.” This isn’t mere knowledge but power that transforms our lives. Meditate on this truth during your commute, and gratitude and joy will spring up.
2. Beware of Legalism: Don’t score your faith life. Thinking “I’m okay because I prayed today” or “I’m good enough because I attend church every week” is legalism. Our righteousness comes from Jesus. Always remember we are saved by grace.
3. Bold Evangelism: Have confidence that Jesus’s salvation is for everyone. You can share the gospel with friends and family regardless of their background, past, or present condition. Don’t think “This person has sinned too much.” Boldly share the gospel.

Think About It

1. How has the fact that “Jesus took the curse in my place” specifically changed your life? Is this truth still just head knowledge, or have you experienced its impact in your heart?
2. Are you unconsciously falling into legalism by thinking “God will love me more if I live well” or “I’ll receive blessings if I serve diligently”? Examine your faith life.
3. Who around you needs the gospel? Are you ready to tell them “Jesus’s salvation is for you too”? Who can you share the gospel with this week?