For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith.
For - proof of the assertion, "fallen from grace," by contrasting with the legalists the Christian's "hope."
Through the Spirit, х Pneumati (G4151)] - rather, 'by the Spirit' (the absence of the Greek article does not hinder taking "Spirit," THE HOLY SPIRIT: for proper names omit it: the Giver of faith), in opposition to after the flesh (Galatians 4:29), or fleshly ways of justification, as circumcision and legal ordinances. "We" is emphatically contrasted with 'whosoever of you would be justified by the law' (Galatians 5:4).
The hope of righteousness - `we assiduously wait for the (realization of the) hope of righteousness (justification), by [ek, from] faith' (the spring of hope) (Romans 5:1; Romans 5:4-5; Romans 8:24-25), a further step than "justified;" not only are we this, but "wait for the hope" which is its full consummation. Romans 8:24-25, the same Greek as here х Elpida (G1680) apekdechometha (G553)]. "Righteousness," in the sense justification, is by the believer once for all already attained; but its consummation above is the object of hope to be waited for: the "crown of righteousness" (2 Timothy 4:8); "the hope laid up for you in heaven" (Colossians 1:5; 1 Peter 1:3). Legal justification is only in the present (Galatians 5:4), and in the legalist's imagination. Justification by faith is present, and also stretches in sure "hope" on to eternity. Righteousness, now the believer's hidden possession, shall then shine out as glory (Matthew 13:43; Colossians 3:3-4).