King James Bible
"For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them."
Paul declares that those who rely on law-keeping for righteousness fall under condemnation. The phrase 'of the works of the law' identifies people whose spiritual confidence rests in their ability to perform legal requirements rather than faith. This formula introduces a scriptural proof from Deuteronomy 27:26. Paul grounds his theological argument in Hebrew Scripture, demonstrating that the law itself testifies against human ability to achieve righteousness through observance. The quoted curse demands perfect, continuous obedience to every legal requirement—an impossible standard that exposes human inadequacy. This totality ('all things') becomes Paul's key evidence that the law cannot justify, only condemn.