Bible Dictionary
Schoolmaster
Schoolmaster translates the Greek term for a household guardian who supervised a child until maturity. Paul uses the figure for the law, which directed and restrained Israel until faith in Christ came.
Biblical Usage
Paul uses the schoolmaster as a figure for the law. The law guarded and disciplined Israel with a view to Christ, preparing for faith by producing convictions of guilt and helplessness. When faith came, the guardianship ceased.
Scripture References