The Role of the Law in Modern Christian Life

The Law in the Context of Grace

The concept of law versus grace often puzzles many within the Christian community. While some might argue that Christianity is solely about grace, others emphasize the importance of law. However, the Bible teaches that both are crucial elements of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Defining the Law

The term "Law" in the Bible, particularly in the Old Testament, often refers to the Torah, which includes the commandments, statutes, and ordinances given to Moses on Mount Sinai. Yet, the essence of the Law, or tôrâ, encompasses all of God's instructions for living a life pleasing to Him, starting from the very first command given to Adam in the Garden of Eden.

The Purpose of the Law

God's Law serves multiple purposes:

To Reveal Sin: The Law acts as a mirror, showing us our sinfulness. As stated in Romans 3:20, "through the Law comes the knowledge of sin." It does not make us sinners; rather, it exposes the sin already within us.
To Guide Our Relationship with God and Others: The Ten Commandments, for instance, outline our duties towards God and our fellow humans. Jesus simplified these into two great commandments: loving God with all our being and loving our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 22:37-40).
To Demonstrate Our Need for Grace: The Law's perfection highlights our imperfection, making clear our need for Christ's righteousness. It's not about earning salvation through obedience but recognizing our inability to achieve perfection on our own.

Can We Follow the Law?

The Law reflects God's perfect character, setting an impossibly high standard for fallen humanity. Jesus, in His teachings, not only upheld these commandments but also expanded their application to include our internal attitudes and thoughts, making it clear that outward obedience alone is insufficient.

The Law Fulfilled Through Christ

The Old Testament sacrifices were a shadow of the true atonement provided by Christ's sacrifice on the cross. Hebrews 10:1-4 explains that these sacrifices could not perfect the worshiper permanently but were reminders of sin. Christ, however, fulfilled the Law by offering Himself, providing a once-for-all atonement.

The Law as a Gift of Grace

Paul in Galatians 3:24 describes the Law as our tutor to lead us to Christ, showing that it was never meant to save but to prepare us for salvation through faith in Jesus. The Law, therefore, is a manifestation of God's grace, guiding us to understand our need for a Savior.

The Law's Relevance Today

For Christians today, while we are not under the Law for salvation, it still has value:

As a Guide: God's commands are now written on our hearts, with the Holy Spirit empowering us to obey (Philippians 2:13).
For Sanctification: Obeying God's commands pleases Him and reflects our love for Him, demonstrating our faith (1 John 2:3-5).
To Teach: Teaching the Law helps believers understand what displeases God, fostering a deeper relationship with Him and guiding us in our walk with Christ.

In conclusion, the Law remains relevant not as a means of salvation but as a guide for Christian living, a tool for sanctification, and a testament to God's unchanging character. Through Christ, we are both forgiven and empowered to live according to God's will, making the Law a continual source of grace and instruction in our spiritual journey.