The solution of the problem that faced the church in Galatia and elsewhere was not to blend Judaism with Christianity, but to “cast out” the principle of Judaizing, together with all who promoted it. Salvation by works is altogether incompatible with salvation by faith (see on Rom. 11:6; Eph. 2:8, 9). A blend of the two is impossible, for once faith is diluted by works it ceases to be pure faith. Compare the teachings of Christ on the subject (see on Mark 2:21, 22).

 Historically, Ishmael (see on v. 22), and in Paul’s allegory all Jews and Judaizing Christians, who maintained that salvation lay in recognizing literal Israel as still God’s chosen people and in complying with the provisions of the old covenant and the ceremonial system. For the application of Paul’s counsel to our day see p. 934.

 That is, historically, Hagar (see on Gen. 21:10; Gal. 4:24). In Paul’s allegory, the “bondwoman” represents the old covenant, the ceremonial system, the principle of righteousness by works (see on vs. 24, 25).