How does Paul apply the idea of a confirmed man's covenant to the law in Galatians 3:15?
Paul argues by analogy from a confirmed human covenant: once ratified, no one annuls or adds to it. He applies this to the law, showing that from humanity's standpoint it was weak and beggarly and could only condemn, yet as God's covenant it is a one-way street no man can alter.
Les explains that Paul is speaking "after the manner of men," as a human, using the analogy of a man's covenant. Once such a covenant is confirmed, no man disannulleth, cancels, or adds thereto. Paul applies this to the law: from the human standpoint the law was weak and beggarly and could not get the job done; it was powerless and only pointed the finger of condemnation at mankind. Yet the law is also perfect, holy, and righteous. Because a covenant in Scripture is always a one-way street, beginning and ending with God, men cannot touch it, enlarge it, or subtract from it. Even though the law is weak from man's standpoint, if it is confirmed, no man disannulleth or addeth thereto.
Brethren, I speak after the manner of men; Though it be but a man’s covenant, yet if it be confirmed, no man disannulleth, or addeth thereto.
More Questions
What does Paul mean by 'I speak after the manner of men' in Galatians 3:15?
When Paul says 'I speak after the manner of men,' he means he is speaking as a human being, a man like anyone else, reasoning from the human standpoint.