Galatians and Colossians show us that questions about the relationship of law and grace were present in the very beginnings of the Christian church. My buddy, Chris Hefner, has written about this issue today and I would encourage you to read his entire article that addresses a Christian’s response to the Law. Here’s an excerpt:
One thing we must keep in mind is the original purpose of the Law—a purpose that is strikingly consistent through both the Old and New Testaments. The Law reveals the holiness of God (Leviticus 11:44; 1 Peter 1:15-16); the Law shows us our sin and points out our need for Jesus (Galatians 3:24); the Law is a guide for Christian living (Romans 8:3-4; Matthew 22:34-40); Jesus fulfilled the Law (Matthew 5:17); the Law provides principles for modern jurisprudence (1 Timothy 1:9-10). In neither testament was the Law intended to bring salvation. The Decalogue (10 Commandments) were given as an outward expression of obedience signifying God’s covenant with Israel that he had already established when he rescued them from Egypt. Thus, the Law was the expression of living out the covenant relationship Israel already had with God. According to George Ladd, “In the intertestamental period a fundamental change occurred in the role of the Law in the life of the people. The importance of the Law overshadows the concept of covenant and becomes the condition of membership in God’s people.”[1] This view of the Law as a means to membership in God’s family was the expression of the Law addressed by Paul in the book of Galatians as well as the reason for the Jewish council in Acts 15. Correctly understood, the Law can only be a means to salvation if lived out perfectly. Since only Jesus Christ has lived the law with perfection (fulfilled it according to Matthew 5:17), no one can secure their place in God’s kingdom by their obedience to the Law. Our salvation (membership into God’s kingdom) can only come by grace through faith in Jesus who has fulfilled the Law on our behalf. As I understand the Scriptures (and I believe I side with Paul here referencing Abraham in Romans 4), salvation has always and only been by grace through faith—not by the works of the law.
How Should Christians View The Law?
