“Spheres of Influence” in the Epistle to the Galatians

Paul’s discussion of the Law and Christ in Galatians is framed in spherical language. This is seen in his use of three key prepositions (ἐν, ἐκ, and ὑπο). Paul’s chief contrast is between one operating within the Law or within Christ as their basic realm of belonging. Those who are tempted to return to the sphere of the Law as their fundamental relation to God are at risk of transferring out of the realm of Christ, which for Paul is the only place in which favor with God is found.