(Nomos)

 

Greek Pronunciation [NAH mahss]

HCSB Translation: law

Uses in the NT: 194

 

“Let me ask you only this: Did you receive the Spirit by works of the law or by hearing with faith?” (Galatians 3:2}

 

The Greek noun nomos means custom, ordinance, or law. In the Greek OT, nomos is used to translate the Hebrew term torah 247 times, where it normally refers to the law of Moses in general or to specific laws. Paul was particularly fond of nomos, and over half of its occurrences in the NT are in Paul’s writings.

In Romans and Galatians, Paul fought the battle over law and grace in relation to salvation. Paul’s phrase “the works of the law” (Gal. 3:2) refers to the idea of a salvation based on keeping the law. Paul denied that a law-based righteousness, which is dependent on human effort instead of God’s grace and faith in Christ’s work, can save or sustain anyone. The law brings the knowledge of sin and makes everyone accountable to God (Rom. 3:19- 20; Gal. 3:15-22). By showing unbelievers their sinfulness, the law acts as their guardian until they trust in Christ through faith and become sons of God (Gal. 3:23-26).

 


Word Studies courtesy of the Holman Christian Standard Study Bible. Used with permissions from B&H Publishing Group, A Division of LifeWay Christian Resources.