The Law
What is the law? Are the Old Testament laws still important today? How does the law apply to the church now? Should Christians be attempting to “unhitch” the New Testament from the Old Testament?
Let’s talk about it.
Key Takeaways
The law is God's standard for righteousness in all realms of life.
The law encompasses moral, civil, and ceremonial aspects.
The moral law is everlasting and applies to all believers.
The ceremonial law has been fulfilled in Christ and is no longer applicable in the same way.
The civil law provides principles for governing society, but its specific applications may vary.
The law was never intended to be a means of earning justification before God.
The law serves multiple purposes, including maintaining a relationship with God and reflecting His character.
The new covenant emphasizes love for God and others as the guiding principle for believers.
The law should be viewed through the lens of Christ's fulfillment and the principles of love. The Old Testament provides a foundation for understanding the Christian faith and the character of God.
The distinction between Israel and the Church helps to explain the role of the Old Testament laws and their fulfillment in Jesus.
The moral aspects of the Old Testament law still apply to Christians today, as they reflect God's unchanging character.
Unhitching from the Old Testament can lead to a loss of understanding and guidance in living a righteous life.
Repentance is an essential part of the Gospel message, and Christians are called to continually turn from sin and pursue Christlikeness. Sin should be taken seriously, and Christians should adhere to God's standard.
The law can have different effects on individuals, depending on their faith and understanding.
Establishing righteous laws in a nation is important, but the focus should be on individual conversion and adherence to God's righteousness.
God has moral expectations for all nations, and His judgment can befall any nation that acts wickedly.
Churches should practice church discipline and uphold God's standards within their communities.