How can we apply "keeping the law" to modern Christian living? “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them, but to fulfill them.” Understanding What Jesus Fulfilled • Jesus completed the prophetic requirements, the sacrificial system, and the righteous standard demanded by the Law (Hebrews 10:1-10). • His life and cross do not erase the Law; they bring its ultimate meaning into view, showing how God’s justice and mercy meet (Romans 3:31). • Because He fulfilled it perfectly, believers now approach God clothed in His righteousness, not their own attempts at perfection (2 Corinthians 5:21). Three Elements of the Old Testament Law 1. Ceremonial: sacrifices, temple rituals—fulfilled in Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice (Hebrews 9:11-14). 2. Civil: national regulations for ancient Israel—principles still instruct but specific statutes no longer govern the church (1 Corinthians 10:6). 3. Moral: timeless commands reflecting God’s character—still binding and now written on believers’ hearts by the Spirit (Jeremiah 31:33; Romans 8:4). Why “Keeping the Law” Still Matters • Reveals God’s holiness and our ongoing need for grace (Romans 7:7-13). • Guides daily conduct so our lives “adorn the doctrine of God” (Titus 2:10). • Protects relationships and promotes human flourishing (Psalm 19:7-11). • Demonstrates love for Christ: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). Practical Ways to Live Out the Law Today • Study the moral commands regularly—Exodus 20; Matthew 5-7; Romans 12—and ask the Spirit to engrave them on your heart. • Walk in love, the Law’s true fulfillment: “Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the Law” (Romans 13:10). • Cultivate integrity in speech, business, and online activity—reflecting “You shall not bear false witness” and “You shall not steal.” • Honor marriage and purity in thought and action—upholding “You shall not commit adultery” (Hebrews 13:4). • Practice Sabbath rhythms: deliberate rest, worship, and reflection, acknowledging God as Creator and Sustainer (Mark 2:27). • Give generously to church and needy—mirroring Old Testament tithes and gleaning laws (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). • Show justice and mercy to the vulnerable, echoing the prophets’ call (Micah 6:8; James 1:27). Living by the Spirit, Not Legalism • Depend on the Holy Spirit to empower obedience (Galatians 5:16-18). • Reject self-righteous scorekeeping; embrace humble reliance on Christ’s finished work (Ephesians 2:8-10). • Use the Law as a mirror, not a ladder—diagnosing sin, driving you to the Savior, shaping sanctified living (James 1:22-25). Encouragement for Daily Obedience • God’s commands are “not burdensome” (1 John 5:3) because grace supplies strength. • Each act of obedience is an act of love toward the Lord who first loved us. • The world sees His character when His people walk in His ways (Matthew 5:16). |
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