“Do we then make void the law through faith? Certainly not! On the contrary, we establish the law” (Romans 3:31).
Many people appear to have immense trouble discerning the significant differences between the Law of Moses and the Law of Christ/the Law of Faith.
Romans 3:19-31 is invaluable in setting forth these clear differences:
In verses 19-23, the inspired penman enumerates five things about the Law’s power:
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It closed mouths (v. 19).
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It showed personally accountability and guilt (v. 19).
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It brought knowledge of sin and humanity’s inability to avoid or remedy it (v. 20).
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It testified to God’s righteousness (v. 21).
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It demonstrated universal guilt and condemnation (v. 23).
In short, the Law could condemn sinners; it could not justify (i.e., forgive) them (v. 20).
In verses 24-31, the gospel’s power is listed. Behold the difference!
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It provides redemption through Christ’s atoning sacrifice (vv. 24-25).
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It demonstrates God’s righteousness with absolute finality (vv. 25-26).
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It eliminates boasting in meritorious righteousness (vv. 27-28).
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It enables all men (Jews and Gentiles) to be saved alike (vv. 29-30).
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It establishes the Law (v. 31).
Clearly, when someone abandons the powerful gospel of Christ for the Law of Moses, he has turned again to the spiritually weak and beggarly elements which bring bondage (Galatians 4:9) instead of freedom. Estrangement from Christ has occurred, and “you have fallen from grace” (Galatians 5:4).
Why would anyone want this?
