²¹ Is the law then contrary to the promises of God? Certainly not! For ^(A)if a law had been given that could give life, then righteousness would indeed be by the law. ²² But the Scripture ^(B)imprisoned everything under sin, so that ^(C)the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given ^(D)to those who believe.

²³ Now before faith came, we were held captive under the law, ^(E)imprisoned until the coming faith would be revealed. ²⁴ So then, ^(F)the law was our ^(G)guardian until Christ came, ^(H)in order that we might be justified by faith.

⁴ For ^(A)Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.^[a]