Online Bible Study - Foundations of Faith

Law and Gospel

In the Old Testament book of Exodus, we read and learn how God gave His Law the second time. This time he wrote it onto tablets of stone and delivered it through the hands of Moses. Please read about the giving of this Law in Exodus 20:3-17. In these words God records for us and for all people, both then and now, His Ten Commandments, which we have already studied. Please note that God is very strict. He commands "You shall" and "You shall not." These clearly tell us what we are supposed to do and what we must not do.

God, while talking to Abraham, says in Genesis 7:1, "I am God Almighty; walk before me and be blameless." In Exodus 24:11, God says that he wants complete obedience, "Obey what I command you today." Finally, Jesus himself also said in St. Matthew 5: 19-20, "Anyone who breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven."

In love to God, out of thankfulness for our redemption through Jesus, and with the power of the Holy Spirit, we must be led to live a holy life. God says in Leviticus 19:2, "Be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy." However, you must clearly understand that the Law, that is, living a holy life, does not save a person. St. Paul emphasized this when he wrote to the Galatians, "All who rely on observing the law are under a curse, for it is written: "Cursed is everyone who does not continue to do everything written in the Book of the Law" (Gal 3:10). Absolutely no one is justified (made right) before God by just keeping the law, because "The righteous will live by faith" (Gal 3:11).

Understanding the Law of God is difficult. The Law focuses on us and on our sins and shortcomings. It is uncomfortable, but it is necessary and useful. At times it can show us our sins. At times it can keep us from committing terrible sins. It always offers us the right rules for life. We are at the center of the Law.

If you are still uncomfortable about God's Law or have any questions about it, talk to the pastor of the nearest Christian church. That person will be able to help you.

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