The Law and the Christian
Note: To properly understand the position of the writer please read the author's message "To The Reader".
[9.1]
The Book
Today, most who claim to be Christians anchor their beliefs in a book called the Bible. The word "bible" itself means book, so we have a book called "The Book." It is the book, the book of all books, the only book in existence claiming God as its author. This universal best seller contains two major component parts. We find at the beginning the larger of its two parts, known as the "Old Testament," followed by the somewhat smaller volume called the "New Testament."
[9.2]
Two Contracts
The word "testament", used in the New Testament, as interpreted in the Greek language, the language in which it was originally recorded, is "dratheke" pronounced "dee-ath-ay-kay," meaning contract (ref. Strong's 1242). Therefore, both components of the bible (Old and New Testaments) convey to the reader the concept of two separate and individual contracts made between God and man.
[9.3]
The Old Contract
The first contract (the Old Testament), also known as the law, sets the standard required for man to stand before God justified by his own works. It also reveals the consequences for failure to meet this standard. The Old Testament or Covenant describes man's futile attempts to keep God's law while abiding in a body already weakened by a genetic propensity toward sin. It describes the interim, temporary remedy that God provided to forestall the consequences brought on by man's failure to obey His covenant.
[9.4]
The record of man's struggle found in this volume is a lesson for all who think it's possible to justify themselves before a perfect God by vain attempts at living and walking before God in righteousness.
Isaiah 64:6
But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousness are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.
[9.5]
The "Old Covenant" was good for several reasons. First, without the law, sin would not have been revealed.
Romans 5:13
(For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law.)
[9.6]
What is sin? The answer is anything that is contrary to the will of God. The Law also revealed to man his hopeless condition and need for salvation apart from his own efforts. Finally, having revealed to man his weakness and failure, it provided God with the opportunity to demonstrate His love for man by rescuing him from certain spiritual death, thus revealing to man God's unfailing love. In the truest sense the law was a schoolteacher, a schoolteacher that taught man the necessity for depending wholly upon God and not upon self.
Romans 6:23
For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
[9.7]
The New Contract
The Old Contract, Covenant or Testament has given way to a new and better contract established on new and better promises.
Hebrews 8:6
But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises.
[9.8]
The old has failed and we as Christians are dead to it; no longer under its curse.
Romans 7:4
Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God.
Galatians 3:10
For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.
[9.9]
The law was useful up until the time of reformation, the time of reform i.e., the time when Jesus Christ came to fulfill all things. It provided a standard for moral living but could not keep mankind from sin or its consequences.
Hebrews 9:10
10 Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.
[9.10]
But now it is passing away, unable to redeem man from the bonds of sin.
Hebrews 10:4
For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins.
Hebrews 10:11
And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins:
[9.11]
Many who would agree with not keeping the Levitical ordinances of the Old Contract (Covenant), would shiver at the notion of laying aside the Ten Commandments. They would happily ignore the Old Testament ordinances of taste not, touch not and do not that comprised so much of the spiritual lives of the Jews, but do away with the ten commandments, now that's something else.
Ephesians 2:14-15
14 For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;
15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace;
[9.12]
Jesus declared that until heaven and earth pass away, nothing would be excluded from the law.
Matthew 5:17-18
17 Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill.
18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.
[9.13]
God views man as being under one of only two covenants. Either he is under the covenant of law or he's under the covenant of grace extended through Christ. If man has surrendered to Jesus then he's under grace but if not, then man is under the covenant of law and its curse. The law remains in effect until the heavens and the earth pass away and remains viable for all who have rejected the only begotten Son of God. In the end, heaven and earth will pass away and after the judgment the law will pass away with it.
Revelation 21:1
And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.
[9.14]
Compare The Two Covenants
The Old Covenant had no power to take away sin.
Hebrews 10:4
For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins.
The New Covenant was sealed in the blood of God's only begotten son and has the power to cleanse mankind from all sin (I John 1:7).
Hebrews 9:12
Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.
Hebrews 9:15
And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.
[9.15]
Through His blood, our sins are remembered no more forgotten forever.
Hebrews 8:12
For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more
[9.16]
Two millenniums ago, in the town of Bethlehem of Judea, in the land of Israel, a child was born who would present a new and better contract, one written in His own blood, one that would totally supersede the old. Notice I said supersede, not abolish. This new covenant would begin a debate that would extend from His day to ours. Jesus was pursued constantly by those loyal to the old contract. Many have continued in true Pharisee tradition, attempting to contain this new wine filled with the Spirit of God in the old, worn out, legalistic skins of the God-cursed covenant of law.
Matthew 9:17
Neither do men put new wine into old bottles: else the bottles break, and the wine runneth out, and the bottles perish: but they put new wine into new bottles, and both are preserved.
[9.17]
These New Testament legalists desire to drag the old law, with its legalistic ordinances, across the blood-stained path of the cross, binding again those whom Christ gave His life to free.
Galatians 5:1
Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.
[9.18]
Holding On To Death
If we hold onto any part of the law, then we must continue in it. If we continue in it, we fall under its curse.
Galatians 3:10-11
10 For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.
11 But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, the just shall live by faith.
[9.19]
If the old covenant has passed and we who are in Christ are now dead to it, then why do we continue to embrace it.
Galatians 2:19
For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God.
[9.20]
Why can't we realize that it's not compatible with the fabric of the new contract?
Matthew 9:16
No man putteth a piece of new cloth unto an old garment, for that which is put in to fill it up taketh from the garment, and the rent is made worse.
[9.21]
As a schoolmaster, the law has value by revealing to us the futility of attempting to reach God through our own efforts but those of faith are no longer under the law, i.e. the old schoolmaster.
Galatians 3:24-25
24 Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.
25 But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.
[9.22]
Without the law we could not clearly identify sin.
Romans 5:13
For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law.
[9.23]
It has a value, but it must not be the controlling influence in our life; this position now belongs to the Holy Spirit.
Romans 8:1
There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
[9.24]
The law is an example to us, a record of man's attempt to redeem himself and his failure to accomplish it. The law provides us with a historical record of the past while it points to the necessity for a better plan for the future. It projects itself forward with prophecies yet unfulfilled, it reveals much about the unchanging character of God.
[9.25]
The Old Testament does much to reveal spiritual mysteries presenting us with historical examples that reveal great spiritual truths. It is a great companion to the new contract, but it must not become an addendum to it.[9.26]
Contract Additions Or Contradictions?
Some may argue that regulations were formed by the church fathers (our present church leaders) to assure a safe, clear walk within the boundaries of scripture. They will explain that such regulations and standards clarify the conduct required to comply with the scriptural model in our times. This may sound wonderful to the legalistic mind, but it destroys the freedom that Christ purchased for us at Calvary. Such man made doctrines appear as a light to our path but may well come from the angel of light. This angel comes, however, to deceive and destroy the children of God.
[9.27]
If men, even spiritual men, are left to interpret and update the word of God, the result can only be confusion and division. Who, in the flesh, doesn't have their own ideas on these matters? If we allow such regulations and/or standards to be imposed on us, then who among us should have the right to choose and implement them? What of us? Are we to bear the heavy burden once more of shouldering legalistic traditions and man made laws? Have we cast off the teachings of the Pharisees only to adopt them again (Galatians 3:1-5).
Matthew 23:4-5
4 For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers.
5 But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments,
[9.28]
Matthew 15:19
But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.
Having now been freed from bondage by the blood of Christ, are we now prepared to accept it again or will we choose to be guided instead by the Holy Spirit? Let us now, once and for all, choose to be led by the Spirit, having become dead to the law of ordinances.
Ephesians 2:15
Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace;
Colossians 2:14
Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;
Galatians 2:19
For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God.
[9.29]
In Jesus' day, such men denied the Son of God, refusing to accept the path of freedom He taught. They denied his power, accusing him of being a devil. Now, we deny the work of the Holy Spirit by choosing to be led by the law. In the day of Noah, they denied the existence of God by ignoring His warnings concerning the flood. Will we now, in the day when the Spirit has been made available to all, deny the Spirit by insisting on obedience to Old Testament law, or worse, the laws and doctrines of men?
John 14:17
Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.
John 16:13
Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.
[9.30]
The Sprit has been sent to illuminate the will of God making known to each of us, individually, the path we must follow. He, the Holy Spirit, will never move beyond the boundaries of God's word, nor will He require the assistance of men with their doctrines, standards or regulations. He came to replace the need for such regulations, and if we yield to man's authority, we deny His.
Titus 1:14
Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth.
[9.31]
In the Old Testament, God's people all lived in the same region and in the same conditions, they shared the same climate and culture, they shared the same dangers, etc. In the New Testament, God' people, his church, have been sent into the entire world where everything is different. If a modestly dressed woman living in Ecuador, South America, were to live in Alaska, she would freeze to death, and if a modestly dressed woman in Alaska lived in Ecuador, she would die from hyperthermia. Wearing a skirt in the Arctic North could be considered suicidal. No longer can we assume that one law fits all. This is why we must be guided by the Spirit. The letter of the law kills but the Spirit gives life.
2 Corinthians 3:6
Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.
[9.32]
Let's imagine for a moment that we have been called into a conference meeting with Jesus. As we enter the meeting room, we see a huge conference table with Jesus sitting at the head. We then sit down at one of the many chairs which surround the table. In front of us on the table we find two documents placed side by side. The document on our left reads Old Testament law and is stamped, "completed." The one on the right is marked New Testament and is stamped, "active."
[9.33]
Jesus explains that much of the information and experience gained from the first contract will serve to help us in successfully completing the current contract. He tells us that all history contained within the old is accurate. He assures us that all yet unfulfilled prophecy must come to pass and so remains viable. He calls our attention to the many mistakes that were made in the old contract and recommends we learn from these past errors as though taught by an old school master (Galatians 3:24-25).
[9.34]
Jesus finds a use for each of the old contract sections except for the section entitled "Old Testament law," which He insists we compare to the new contract or covenant. We then begin, to make a comparison of the old (covenant) with the new (covenant) and discover that the new is far better than the old (Hebrews 8:6).
[9.35]
The second (New Covenant) was introduced because the first has faults.
Hebrews 8:7
For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second.
[9.36]
The Old Covenant rewards were carnal and temporal, but the new offers us the power of life everlasting.
Hebrews 7:16
Who is made, not after the law of a carnal commandment, but after the power of an endless life.
[9.37]
The Old Covenant held a discouraging, imperfect hope but the new brings a better hope.
Hebrews 7:19
For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did; by the which we draw nigh unto God.
The Old Covenant offered only temporal, finite life and could not bring us to completion.
Hebrews 9:8-11
8 The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing:
9 Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience;
10 Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.
11 But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building;
[9.38]
The New offers "endless life."
Hebrews 13:20
Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,
[9.39]
The Old Covenant or contract was weak and unprofitable.
Hebrews 7:18
For there is verily a disannulling of the commandment going before for the weakness and unprofitableness thereof.
[9.40]
The New is strong, reaching within the veil.
Hebrews 6:19
Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which entereth into that within the veil;
[9.41]
The Old Covenant made nothing perfect.
Hebrews 7:19
For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did; by the which we draw nigh unto God.
[9.42]
The New makes all things perfect.
Hebrews 10:14
For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.
[9.43]
The Old was sealed with the blood of animals
Hebrews 9:18
Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood.
Hebrews 9:20
Saying, this is the blood of the testament which God hath enjoined unto you.
[9.44]
The New was sealed with the blood of God's Son
Hebrews 9:11
But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building;
Hebrews 9:15
And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.
[9.45]
The Old could not take away sin.
Hebrews 10:4
For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins.
[9.46]
In the New, sins are remembered no more forever.
Hebrews 8:12
For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more.
[9.47]
The Old did not reveal the way to eternal life.
Hebrews 9:8
The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing:
[9.48]
The New reveals the way to eternal life fully.
Hebrews 9:15
And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.
[9.49]
In the Old, the law and priesthood were changeable.
Hebrews 7:12
For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law.
In the New, the priesthood is unchangeable
Hebrews 7:24
But this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood.
[9.50]
The Old appointed priests by an imperfect law.
Hebrews 7:28
For the law maketh men high priests which have infirmity; but the word of the oath, which was since the law, maketh the Son, who is consecrated for evermore.
[9.51]
In the New, Jesus, the new covenant high priest, is appointed by the oath of God.
[9.52]
The high priest of the New is perfect and ever lives to intercede.
Hebrews 7:25
Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.
[9.53]
The Old Covenant was observed in a man-pitched, earthly tabernacle. (Hebrews 9:1,2) but Christ came as high priest, of a more perfect tabernacle not made with hands.
Hebrews 9:11
But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building;
[9.54]
The New in a tabernacle pitched by the Lord.
Hebrews 8:2
A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man.
[9.55]
The Old Covenant or contract lasted only until the "time of reformation."
Hebrews 9:10
Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.
[9.56]
The New Contract lasts forever.
Hebrews 13:20
Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,
[9.57]
The Old was unable to purge the conscience.
Hebrews 9:9
Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience;
[9.58]
The New thoroughly purges the conscience.
Hebrews 9:14
How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?
[9.59]
The Old was only a pattern, type or shadow of spiritual things.
Hebrews 10:1
For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect.
[9.60]
The New is the substance; the real and true spiritual thing.
Hebrews 10:9, 10 Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second. By the which we are all sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
[9.61]
The Old Contract became obsolete and had to disappear.
Hebrews 8:13
In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away.
[9.62]
The New never grows old; it's fresh (new) and eternal.
Hebrews 9:15
And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.
[9.63]
The Old was a mere copy of heavenly things.
Hebrews 8:4-5
4 For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there are priests that offer gifts according to the law:
5 Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount.
[9.64]
The New reveals the heavenly things themselves.
Hebrews 9:23-24
23 It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these.
24 For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us:
[9.65]
The Old could never make anyone perfect.
Hebrews 10:1
For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect.
[9.66]
The New makes God's elect absolutely perfect (Hebrews 12:23) (Hebrews 13:21).
Hebrews 9:11-15
11 But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building;
12 Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.
13 For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh:
14 How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?
15 And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.
Hebrews 10:10
By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
[9.67]
The Old could never take away any sins.
Hebrews 10:11
And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins:
[9.68]
The New takes away all sin for those who walk in the light.
Hebrews 10:17
And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.
I John 1:7
But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
The Old kept its subjects under a curse.
Galatians 3:10
For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.
[9.69]
The New redeems men from the curse.
Galatians 3:13
Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:
The Old could never justify any man.
Galatians 3:11
But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.
Galatians 5:4
Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace.
[9.70]
The New justifies all who trust in Christ.
Galatians 3:24
Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.
[9.71]
The old as a law of works but the New is entirely a law of faith.
Romans 3:27
Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith.
Galatians 3:19
Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.
[9.72]
The Old could not impart life.
Galatians 3:21
Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.
[9.73]
The New is "the law of the Spirit of life."
Romans 8:2
For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.
The Old Covenant was to last only until Christ came.
Galatians 3:19
Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.
[9.74]
The New Covenant is to continue eternally.
Hebrews 13:20
Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,
Revelation 14:6
And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people,
[9.75]
The Old was merely a disciplinarian that led to Christ.
Galatians 3:24
Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.
[9.76]
The New has taken us out from the authority of the disciplinarian.
Galatians 3:25
But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.
[9.77]
The Old was allegorically represented by Hagar.
Galatians 4:24
Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar.
[9.78]
The New was allegorically represented by Sarah.
Galatians 4:22-23
22 For it is written, that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman.
23 But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman was by promise.
Galatians 4:26
But Jerusalem which is above is free, which is the mother of us all.
The Old bore children unto bondage only.
Galatians 4:22-25
22 For it is written, that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman.
23 But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman was by promise.
24 Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar.
25 For this Agar is mount Sinai in Arabia, and answereth to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children.
[9.79]
The New bears children unto freedom only.
Galatians 4:31
So then, brethren, we are not children of the bondwoman, but of the free.
Galatians 5:1
Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.
The Old bore fleshly children.
Galatians 4:23-25
23 But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman was by promise.
24 Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar.
25 For this Agar is mount Sinai in Arabia, and answereth to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children.
[9.80]
The New bears spiritual children.
Romans 8:9-10
9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.
10 And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. Romans 8:14-16
14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.
16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
Galatians 4:4-7
4 But when the fullness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,
5 To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.
6 And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.
7 Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.
The Old Covenant is represented by a divorced handmaid.
Galatians 4:30-31
30 Nevertheless what saith the scripture? Cast out the bondwoman and her son: for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the freewoman.
31 So then, brethren, we are not children of the bondwoman, but of the free.
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The New Covenant is presented as a free woman and remaining wife.
Galatians 4:30-31
30 Nevertheless what saith the scripture? Cast out the bondwoman and her son: for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the freewoman.
31 So then, brethren, we are not children of the bondwoman, but of the free.
The subjects of the Old now live "severed from Christ."
Galatians 5:4
Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace.
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The subjects of the New are joint heirs with Christ.
Romans 8:17
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.
The Old is the letter of the law which kills.
2 Corinthians 3:6
Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.
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The New is the ministry of the Spirit.
2 Corinthians 3:8
How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious?
The Old was written on tablets of stone.
Deuteronomy 9:10
And the LORD delivered unto me two tables of stone written with the finger of God; and on them was written according to all the words, which the LORD spake with you in the mount out of the midst of the fire in the day of the assembly.
2 Corinthians 3:7
But if the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not steadfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away:
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The New was written on the tablets of human hearts.
Jeremiah 31:31-33
31 Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah:
32 Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt; which my covenant they brake, although I was an husband unto them, saith the LORD:
33 But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people.
2 Corinthians 3:3
Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.
The glory of the Old Covenant is passing.
2 Corinthians 3:10-11
10 For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth.
11 For if that which is done away was glorious, much more that which remaineth is glorious.
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The glory of the New is forever.
2 Corinthians 3:8
How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious?
2 Corinthians 3:10-11
10 For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth.
11 For if that which is done away was glorious, much more that which remaineth is glorious.
The Old is an administration of condemnation and The New is an administration of the righteousness.
2 Corinthians 3:9
For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory.
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Having now compared these two covenants or contracts, we can only conclude that any attempt to fulfill even part of the old contract of law would require a hopeless obedience to all of it. The result of this would end in failure and separation from God. We must therefore receive from the old all uncompleted business, i.e., unfulfilled prophecy, history and moral lessons useful in the understanding and fulfillment of the new, but not adopt any laws which can only lead to the bondage contained within it. We must not allow ourselves to be led or guided by the law but rather, be taught, led and guided by the Holy Spirit.
The New Testament Law
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The law of the old covenant was chiseled in stone atop Mount Sinai and carries a curse for all who fail to obey it. It revealed man’s sin and the hopelessness of man’s condition before God and did not bring the forgiveness or reconciliation necessary for the salvation of mankind. The new covenant was not an extension of the old but a totally different contract built on better promises. The old covenant offered a temporary reprieve from God’s judgment but the new covenant offered permanent forgiveness and salvation through God’ grace and unlike the old covenant, the new was written on men’s hearts.
Jeremiah 31:31-34
31 Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah:
32 Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt; which my covenant they brake, although I was an husband unto them, saith the LORD:
33 But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people.
34 And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the LORD: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the LORD; for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.
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The promises above were made to Israel and Judah but not to ethnic Israel or Judah only, for all Israel is not Israel, but rather all who form the holy priesthood of Christ, these have become the new nation of new Israel, the chosen nation of God
Romans 9:6
6 Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel:
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Today, as the church, we stand as one holy nation, no longer divided into tribes and the new Jews, i.e. the chosen people of today, come from all kindreds, tribes and nations. They are those who are sanctified by their belief in Christ. Those who are born again have become the children of God, adopted and grafted into the family of God and are part of God’s true family, who as a family, pray “Our Father”.
1 Peter 2:9
9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light:
Romans 15:16
16 That I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost.
Romans 8:16-17
16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.
Galatians 4:4-7
4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,
5 To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.
6 And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.
7 Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.
Romans 2:28-29
28 For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh:
29 But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.
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This new covenant, holy nation has received one heart, unified in Christ and a new Spirit.
Ezekiel 11:18-20
18 And they shall come thither, and they shall take away all the detestable things thereof and all the abominations thereof from thence.
19 And I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within you; and I will take the stony heart out of their flesh, and will give them an heart of flesh:
20 That they may walk in my statutes, and keep mine ordinances, and do them: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God.
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The Lord took away the first covenant from ethnic Israel so that He could establish the second, i.e. the new covenant and He is the mediator of this new covenant.
Hebrews 10:9-10
9 Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second.
10 By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
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The old covenant centered on ten (10) commandments but the focus of the new centered on two commandments which applied to both God and man.
John 13:34-35
34 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
Matthew 22:37-40
37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
38 This is the first and great commandment.
39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
40 On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.
John 15:12-13
12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.
13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
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Many will concede that abandoning the old covenant ordinances might be all well and good but not the ten commandments. Those who remain fixed in this position will find no words to justify the forsaking of the old covenant Sabbath. Many believe that Christ rose on the first day of the week so we can break the Old Testament law, i.e. the ten commandments and introduce a new revision.
If we intend to obey one or more of the ten commandments, shouldn't we keep them all?
James 2:10
10 For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.
If we don’t, are we not guilty of breaking all?
Love Is God’s Commandment
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Because love does no harm to others and honors God, it fulfills the law.
Romans 13:8-10
8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.
9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.
Note: Specific mention is made in this text to the law of Moses, i.e. the ten commandments.
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Love is not a list of do’s and don’ts, it’s a way, a way of life, a way to live, a way to God. The last verse in 1 Corinthians twelve says, “yet show I unto you a more excellent way”. What is that way?
1 Corinthians 13 NKJV
1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal.
2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.
3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing.
4 Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up;
5 does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil;
6 does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth;
7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
8 Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away.
9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part.
10 But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away. 11 When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things.
12 For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known.
13 And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.
The Way
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“The Way” is a road, path or journey. It’s a direction that each life, committed to Christ, must take. Since the beginning there have been those who have, “stood in the way”, not as fellow travelers but as stumbling blocks, obstructions like those with whom Paul contended at the school of Tyrannus.
Acts 19:9
9 But when divers were hardened, and believed not, but spake evil of that way before the multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, disputing daily in the school of one Tyrannus.
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True believers who walk in the “way” are often misunderstood and often persecuted.
Acts 19:23
23 And the same time there arose no small stir about that way.
2 Timothy 3:12
12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
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Their message cannot be stopped; even rulers and magistrates, though unredeemed, have heard and have knowledge of “the way” though many of them have remained in darkness.
Acts 24:22
22 And when Felix heard these things, having more perfect knowledge of that way, he deferred them, and said, When Lysias the chief captain shall come down, I will know the uttermost of your matter.
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Many today continue to embrace the law, they continue to serve God in the old letter of the law rather than in the newness of the Spirit.
Romans 7:6
6 But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter.
Romans 8:1-4
8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.
3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:
4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
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Because the law of God has now been written on our hearts, we need no list of commandments to teach us the difference between good and evil. The Spirit of truth, the Holy Spirit has been sent to teach us, guide us and remind us of God’s will for our lives.
John 14:26
26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
John 16:13
13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.
Old vs. New
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There is a difference between these two covenants and we must recognize this difference. The first was given to an ethnic nation that was divided into twelve tribes which lived in one place and shared one culture and leadership. The second was given to an international priesthood that together form a holy nation united and extracted from all the kindreds, tribes and nations of the world. A nation which functions as a monarchy with one eternal King that rules over all.
The first covenant required that we give to God one tenth of our wealth each year.
Deuteronomy 14:22-29
22 Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year.
23 And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.
24 And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee:
25 Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose:
26 And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,
27 And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee.
28 At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay it up within thy gates:
29 And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest.
The new covenant requires that we give as each has need
Acts 2:45
45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.
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The first required that we dedicate our first born to the Lord.
Exodus 13:2
2 Sanctify unto me all the firstborn, whatsoever openeth the womb among the children of Israel, both of man and of beast: it is mine.
The second requires that every life be dedicated.
Romans 12:1
12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.
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The first covenant required rest and worship on the Sabbath.
Exodus 20:10-11
10 But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates:
11 For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
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The second covenant requires our rest and worship every day.
Matthew 11:28-30
28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
Romans 14:5
5 One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind.
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The old covenant set aside one out of the twelve tribes for the priesthood.
Deuteronomy 10:8
8 At that time the LORD separated the tribe of Levi, to bear the ark of the covenant of the LORD, to stand before the LORD to minister unto him, and to bless in his name, unto this day.
The new covenant calls all who believe to the priesthood.
1 Peter 2:5
5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.
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The old covenant required one nation to follow God.
Genesis 12:1-2
1 Now the LORD had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will shew thee:
2 And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing:
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The new covenant calls all men from all nations to follow Him.
2 Peter 3:9
9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
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The differences are many, too many to offer a complete list. The old covenant was not the foundation of the new, nor was the new built upon it. The church began with Jesus, He is its cornerstone, the first stone laid in its construction and the apostles form the remaining foundation.
Not Law But Love
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The new covenant is not rooted in the law of Moses, i.e. the ten commandments or the Levitical ordinances. The new covenant is founded on love. The entire law is fulfilled in it and has brought the law to an end for all those who walk in “the way” of Christ, the way of love, the way of God.
Love is not a suggestion, it is the commandment of God and all who fail to follow this “way” will miss the mark.
We are instructed to walk in the light if the blood of Christ is to cleanse us from sin.
1 John 1:9
9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
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It is impossible to walk in the light without loving our brothers.
1 John 2:8-11
8 Again, a new commandment I write unto you, which thing is true in him and in you: because the darkness is past, and the true light now shineth.
9 He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now.
10 He that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is none occasion of stumbling in him.
11 But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes.
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As God’s children, we are known by “the way”we live and love.
1 John 3:10-11
10 In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.
11 For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another.
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We have no hope of eternal life unless we love the brethren, not just in lip service but in demonstration.
1 John 3:14-18
14 We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.
15 Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.
16 Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.
17 But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?
18 My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.
James 2:14-17
14 What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?
15 If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,
16 And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?
17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.
In short, we are saved by our belief in Christ and our love for one another.
1 John 4:7-12
7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.
8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.
9 In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.
10 Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.
12 No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us.
1 John 4:16-21
16 And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.
17 Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world.
18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.
19 We love him, because he first loved us.
20 If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?
21 And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.
Final Thought
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Some who read this will find it difficult to let go of the ten commandments as their standard for righteous living. The new law has been written on our heart and brought to our conscious by the Holy Spirit. Love fulfills the law and we must abide in it. We cannot be justified by keeping the law. The fact is we have already learned we can’t keep it and we are hopelessly lost without the love of the Father who, through Christ, has saved us from our transgressions by His grace. For those who insist on holding on, I leave you with one final thought. Brethren, we are no longer debtors to the law, we are debtors to Christ who gave His life for us. The law is no longer our standard for living, Christ is.
Galatians 5:4
4 Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace.
1 Peter 4:8 NKJV
8 And above all things have fervent love among yourselves: for love shall cover the multitude of sins.
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If love covers a multitude of sins then let’s bury them as deep as we can, let’s love without measure, without restraint, without partiality; let’s even love our enemies remembering that we were once the enemies of God. If we do this, which law have we not kept?