Are We Under Grace or Law? (Part 1)

Some might ask, "What is the relationship of grace to law?" Understandably, it can be a very confusing question. Some have mistakenly concluded from the statement in Romans 6:14-15 that we are "not under law but under grace"; that law and grace are mutually exclusive. In other words, if you have one you cannot have the other.

Allow me to point out, the fact that we are under grace does not mean that we are not subject to law, and that it is not essential for us to keep divine law. As you can see, it can be somewhat confusing to understand. I will try to explain the relationship between grace and law to you in two separate installments; the first one I will present today.

We will begin with this strong statement,"We are subject to Divine Law" followed by some scriptural references to support this. The teaching of Jesus is called "law." 1 Corinthians 9:21; Galatians 6:2; James 2:5; 1 John 3:4; Isaiah 2:1-3. We are required to obey that law. 1 John 3:4; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; John 4:24; 1 Peter 4:11; Matthew 28:18-20; 2 John 9. In this last chapter and verse (2 John 9), the context used indicates that John used the expression "doctrine of Christ" to mean the doctrine taught by Christ (His doctrine, His teaching).

I remind you that it is Christ's teaching, His commandments, and "truth," that is emphasized from the beginning of 2 John (see verses 1-2,4,6). It appears that the point of highest priority in John's mind when he wrote this epistle was "walking in truth," meaning "walking according to Christ's commandments." John 8:31 tells us that we must continue in His word to be His disciples.

Whenever God has spoken to man or given a law, He has expected strict obedience and the utmost respect for His word (see: Deuteronomy 4:2; Leviticus 10:1-2; Revelation 22:18-19). All of this tells us that grace does not mean we are not subject to law, rather, it means that we have a way of forgiveness when we violate that law, if we meet the divine conditions.

I know that I have just given you a lot to think about. Hopefully, you will go back and re-read today's message and scripture as many times as you feel is needed. Don't forget to pray to God for understanding of His word. Next time, I will discuss another way to explain the relationship between grace and law using Paul's teaching in Romans. I do hope you will join me for that!

Let's close this message in prayer:

May the grace of Christ our Savior,
And the Father's boundless love,
With the Holy Spirit's favor,
Rest upon us from above.

Thus may we abide in union
With each other and the Lord,
And possess, in sweet communion,
Joys which earth cannot afford.
Amen.

May God be with you always,

Beverly