Scripture clearly tells us that “…the law gives sin its power. “ (I Cor 15:56 NLT)
God’s law, the prohibitions, the thou shall nots actually gives sin its power. We have all experienced it. You read a sign next to a pond that says “Positively no fishing”, and what do you suddenly get a hankering to do? Go fishing in the pond! Your mother lays down the law and tells you to stay out of the cookie jar, and all day long you have an urge to have a cookie! You see a sign that says “wet paint do not touch” and your response is to check it out. So you see the power of sin is in the law.
Now this does not mean that the law is sinful. Look at how the Apostle Paul clarifies this in Romans 7, verses 7 and 8. He says, “What shall we say, then? Is the law sin? Certainly not! Indeed I would not have known what sin was except through the law. For I would not have known what coveting really was if the law had not said “do not covet.” But sin, ceasing the opportunity afforded by the commandment, produced in me every kind of covetous desire. For apart from law, sin is dead.”
The Bible says: “The law came in so that the transgression (sin) would increase;…” (Rom 5:20, NASB)
The Bible says: “For if we could be saved by keeping the law, then there was no need for Christ to die.” (Gal 2:21)
The Ten Commandments, which are part of the law, were not given to stop sin. They have no power to stop sin. God gave the commandments to expose sin. Paul tells us again in Romans 3:20, “For no one can ever be made right in God’s sight by doing what His law commands. For the more we know God’s law, the clearer it becomes that we aren’t obeying it.”
By grasping this truth, you will understand one of the greatest misunderstandings in the church today. Jesus was letting us know that no man could keep the law, and that everyone needs a savior.
The law, which is holy and perfect, was designed to convict unbelievers of their sin and their need for the Savior. Only Jesus Christ can save you from the penalty of sin that the law reveals. Only Jesus Christ can give you a right standing before God.
Romans 10:4 tells us “For Christ has accomplished the whole purpose of the law. All who believe in Him are made right with God.”
LIFE LESSON: In Romans 6:14 Paul explains further “Sin is no longer your master, for you are no longer subject to the law, which enslaves you to sin. Instead, you are free by God’s grace.”
Grace, grace, God’s grace, grace that is greater than all our sin. Amazing grace, how sweet the sound…Thank You Lord Jesus!
We’re excited about the seven Galatian Road Bible studies currently in process. Please help us tell others about this Christ glorifying study!
We appreciate your continued support and for partnering with us to proclaim the truth in God’s Word about His amazing grace. To Him be the glory!