This paper by Joshua Duemler, submitted to Dr. William Barcley for NT5150 – Greek Exegesis at Reformed Theological Seminary – Charlotte, explores Paul’s defense of justification by faith in Galatians 2:17–21.
Duemler argues that Paul’s logic systematically overturns the accusation that justification by faith makes Christ a “servant of sin.” Instead, Paul demonstrates that those who rebuild the law as a means of righteousness become transgressors themselves—denying grace and rendering the cross void.
Through close grammatical and theological analysis, the study highlights the intimate link between justification and union with Christ. Paul’s assertion that he has been “crucified with Christ” reveals that true righteousness and new life come only through participation in Christ’s death and resurrection—not by adherence to the law.
Duemler concludes that to return to law-based righteousness is to “make Christ’s death useless,” undermining both the grace of God and the believer’s union with Christ. The cross is therefore not a license to sin, but the only means of genuine life and obedience to God.
Course and semester: NT5150 Greek Exegesis — Spring 2021
