3:9a

So: The Greek conjunction that the Berean Standard Bible translates as So introduces the logical result of Paul’s argument in 3:6–8.

Some other ways to translate this conjunction are:

So then (English Standard Version)
-or-
This means that (Contemporary English Version)
-or-
Therefore

those who have faith: The phrase have faith describes people who “believe” or “trust” in Christ for their salvation.

Some other ways to translate this phrase are:

all who put their faith in Christ (New Living Translation (2004))
-or-
people who believe (God’s Word)
-or-
those who trust ?in Christ? ?to be saved?

See faith, Meaning 1 in the Glossary for more information.

are blessed: The Greek verb that the Berean Standard Bible translates as are blessed is the basic form of the word “will be blessed” in 3:8d. As there, this word means “are given something good” or “something good is done to them.” When a person believes, God makes him right/straight with him. God makes him righteous. He justifies him. It is in this sense that God blesses him.

This verb is passive. Some ways to translate it are:

• As a passive verb. For example:

are given something good

• As an active verb. For example:

?God? blesses
-or-

?God? does/gives something good to him/them

See bless, Meaning 1 in the Glossary for more information.

3:9b

along with Abraham: This phrase means “together with Abraham.” People who believe share a blessing with Abraham. This phrase means more than that they are blessed as Abraham was blessed.

Some other ways to translate this phrase are:

together with Abraham (God’s Word)
-or-
share in the blessings that were given to Abraham (Contemporary English Version)
-or-
share the same blessing Abraham received (New Living Translation (2004))

the man of faith: The phrase of faith means that Abraham “had faith” or “believed.” He believed in God.

Some other ways to translate this phrase are:

who had faith (Revised Standard Version)
-or-
who believed ?in God?
-or-
who was a believer

See also faith, Meaning 1 in the Glossary for more information.

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