The Importance of Faith.^* 1For freedom^* Christ set us free; so stand firm and do not submit again to the yoke of slavery.^a

2It is I, Paul, who am telling you that if you have yourselves circumcised, Christ will be of no benefit to you.^b 3Once again I declare to every man who has himself circumcised^c that he is bound to observe the entire law.^* 4You are separated from Christ, you who are trying to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace. 5^d For through the Spirit, by faith, we await the hope of righteousness. 6^e For in Christ Jesus, neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love.^*