What is the function of the phrases that refer to faith in Paul's argument in Galatians 2-Galatians 3? This essay considers how the way that Habakkuk 2:4 refers to faith can inform our understanding of Galatians and the "pistis Christou" debate.
It is the thesis of this article that the expression in Habakkuk 2:4b, "The righteous live by his faith," forms the core of the theme of Habakkuk’s entire message. From this text, the complete book of Habakkuk may be organized and interpreted with respect to structure, style, content, and purpose. The author then analyzes the composition and structure of Habakkuk.
Applying Habakkuk 2:6-7, Job 22:6, and Job 24:3 to the issue of debt, this article shows that in the Old Testament secured debt was permitted when necessary, and that the rights of the poor and needy were protected. This has implication for the church today, as she is called to meet the needs of those among her members.
