A commentary of M. I. Calvin upon the Epistle to the GalatiansA commentarie of M. I. Caluine vpon the Epistle to the Galathians

19 Because of transgressions.) The use of the Law is manifold: but Paul toucheth that alone, which served the turn ⟨p. 72⟩present. For it was not his purpose, to discourse how many ways the Law might profit men▪ whereof the readers must be admonished. For I perceive many to be deceived herein, that they allow no other profit for the Law to serve too, beside that which here is noted. but Paul himself 2. Tim. 3. ver. 16. doth apply the precepts of the Law to Doctrine and exhortations. this than is not a full definition of the use of the Law: and they do ill who do acknowledge no other thing in the Law. What do these words because of transgressions mean? so also do the Philosophers speak, that the Law is made to bridle evils. and so sayeth the old proverb, that Of ill manners sprung good Laws. But Paul hath a deeper meaning than the words seem to show. For his mind is that the law was made, that it might make transgressions to appear plainly: and by that means it might constrain men to confess their guiltiness. For as they do naturally favour and pardon themselves, (so) except they be urged by the Law, they have sleepy consciences. and hereof is that saying of Paul. Before the Law although sin were in the world, yet was it not imputed. Rom. 5.13. The Law came than to wake those which were a sleep▪ for this is the true preparation unto Christ. By the Law saith he, Rom. 3.20. is the knowledge of sin, Why? that sin might be above measure sinning. for so he answereth in the seventh chapter, and the thirteenth verse. The Law than is put for cause of transgressions, that it might uncover them, or (as he saith, Rom. 5 20.) that it make them abound. This manner of speech troubleth Origen: but in vain. for what absurdity is it if God do cite their consciences before his tribunal seat, to humble them through guiltiness, who else would please themselves in their evils? if he shake of that numbness which overthrew all feeling of his judgement? if he draw out into the light, sin, which like a Thief lay hid in the Den of hypocrisy? Objection. If any Object and say, Whereas the Law is a rule to live Godly and rightly, why is it said to be rather appointed for cause of transgressions, than for cause of obedience? Answer.