There is no consensus on the meaning of the syntagm ἔργα νόμου (in the discussion on the New Perspective on Paul). The main question is: Does the expression refer to halakhot or (so recently O. Hofius) to deeds? In the first case, according to Paul, justification does not depend on a system of regulations (in particular not on ‘boundary markers’), in the second case justification does not depend on the (good) works of individuals. Meanwhile a considerable group of scholars advocates the halakhot interpretation, and for instance Gal 3.10 supports it (τά γεγραμμένα, αὐτά). Diachronic arguments which, however, should not only consider the nomen regens (ἔργα) are to be added (see Apk 2.26; TestLev XIX.1; 4QMMT C27; yQid 63d). The Pauline references can be understood much better under this assumption, and it does not mean to undermine the ‘Lutheran’ emphasis on forgiving of sin and on Christ (see Gal 2.16–17). But now it is easier to take into account the apostle's positive statements concerning the law (see Rom 8.4) and concerning the judgement ‘according to the deeds of a person’ (see Rom 2.6).
