This research paper by Michael Bauer, submitted to Dr. Robert Cara for NT506 – Greek Exegesis at Reformed Theological Seminary – Charlotte, examines Paul’s statement about the “mediator” in Galatians 3:19–20 and argues that the μεσίτης is not Moses but Christ. Bauer contends that Paul’s discussion of the law and promise points to Christ’s eternal mediatorship within the pactum salutis—the pretemporal covenant between the Father, Son, and Spirit for the redemption of the elect.
Through detailed linguistic and contextual analysis, Bauer explains that Paul’s declaration “God is one” is not a tangential affirmation of monotheism but a theological assertion that no merely human mediator could stand between God and man. The law, given through angels and a mediator, was provisional and preparatory, but the promise given directly through Christ, the divine mediator, fulfills the covenant of grace. Bauer supports this interpretation by comparing Paul’s use of μεσίτης in 1 Timothy 2:5 and the book of Hebrews, both of which identify Jesus as the mediator between God and humanity.
Bauer concludes that Galatians 3:19–20 reveals Christ’s mediatorship as eternal and Trinitarian. The verse does not diminish the unity of God but illuminates it: the Father, Son, and Spirit covenant together for redemption, and the Son’s mediating work fulfills that divine plan in history. The pactum salutis thus provides the theological foundation for Paul’s argument that salvation is wholly of God and grounded in the unity of His eternal purpose.
Course and semester: NT506 Greek Exegesis — Spring 2017
