Lutheran Lens Commentary: Galatians 2:15-21

## Lutheran Lens Reading of Galatians 2:15-21

### Tradition-Specific Interpretation

In Galatians 2:15-21, we read this passage as a clear declaration of justification by faith alone. Paul’s words here sharply divide Law and Gospel, showing the insufficiency of the Law to justify and the necessity of Christ’s atoning work. We see our total inability to fulfill the Law's demands, and yet, through faith in Christ, we receive the righteousness of God. Here, Paul embodies the theology of the cross, as he emphasizes that it is through the crucifixion of Christ, not any works of the Law, that we are justified.

### Key Language Decisions