The Hebrew word for law is Torah meaning to teach or direction. The law is referring to the Ten Commandments, the Pentateuch, which is the first five books of the Old Testament, and any commandment of the Old Testament. This verse is also referring to the sacrificial system that was part of God’s Old Testament covenant with Israel given to Moses.
Paul states several things concerning the law. It was given because of transgressions. The law defines the offenses against God and exposed sin as a violation of God’s will. It awakened humanity’s sense of need for God’s mercy, grace and salvation through Christ.
Even though the Old Testament was holy, good, and righteous, it was incomplete. It could not give the people spiritual life. No rules can keep us in the right relationship with God. The law was a temporary guide to point them to God and how to live until Christ came. The law was given as a guardian until Christ would come.
Now that Christ has come, the law has ended. God’s law still serves to reveal God’s perfect standard and to expose our need for Christ. Our new covenant with God is now based on the life, death, and resurrection of his Son Jesus. Jesus atoning death and miraculous resurrection seals the new covenant. It provides forgiveness and new life for all who surrender to Christ.
We still study and obey the law today. It still teaches and directs us on how to live for Christ. It is a way to know who our triune God is.
Do you study God’s word to know it and to live by it?
What do you think of the Law? Is it relevant for today?
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for having a way for us to know how to be right by you. How to be obedient to your will. I ask that each one of us takes the time to study and know your word, so we will have a sword to fight with in battle against temptation and satan. I thank you for all you do for us.
In Jesus Name
Amen
