What role does the law play in the power of sin, per 15:56? The Text in Focus 1 Corinthians 15:56: “The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law.” Tracing Paul’s Logic • Death hurts because sin exists. • Sin dominates because the law exposes, defines, and provokes it. • Therefore, the law—good and holy—nonetheless empowers sin’s mastery over fallen humanity. How the Law Empowers Sin • Defines transgression – Romans 3:20: “Through the law we become conscious of sin.” – Romans 4:15: “Where there is no law, there is no transgression.” • Provokes rebellion in the sinful heart – Romans 7:7–8: “I would not have known what coveting was if the law had not said, ‘Do not covet.’ But sin, seizing its opportunity through the commandment, produced in me every kind of covetous desire.” • Condemns the sinner – 2 Corinthians 3:6–9 calls the written code a “ministry of death” and “condemnation.” • Increases sin’s tally – Romans 5:20: “The law was given so that the trespass would increase.” • Leaves no excuse – Galatians 3:10: “All who rely on works of the law are under a curse.” What the Law Cannot Do • It cannot impart life (Galatians 3:21). • It cannot change the heart (Romans 8:3). • It cannot remove guilt (Hebrews 10:1–4). Christ’s Triumph over Law-Powered Sin • Fulfilled the law perfectly (Matthew 5:17). • Bore its curse for us (Galatians 3:13). • Canceled “the written code that was against us” (Colossians 2:14). • Now, “sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law but under grace” (Romans 6:14). Living in the Freedom Christ Provides • Rely on the Spirit, not the written code (Romans 8:2–4; Galatians 5:18). • Serve God from the heart, not mere rule-keeping (Romans 7:6). • Stand firm in grace, resisting any return to law-based righteousness (Galatians 5:1–4). |
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