Beware of misusing the law
There are two ways of misusing the law of God: by using it in ways for which it was not designed (misapplication) and by not using it in ways for which it was designed (negligence). From the point of view of the reformed faith, God’s law has three positive functions (show us our sin so we come to Christ, to restrain evil in society, and to show us how as believers we should seek to live). One function it does not have is to justify those who seek to obey it. By the law is the knowledge of sin but not justification from the guilt of our sin (Romans 3:19-20). The Galatians were getting it wrong. Paul graciously but boldly corrects them.
Today’s reading: Galatians 2:1-4:31
My selection:
Tell me, you who desire to be under the law, do you not listen to the law?
Galatians 4:21
For more reflections on this passage, see the corresponding reading in my book Cover to Cover: Through the Bible in 365 days.
Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture references are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Permanent Text Edition® (2016). Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.
Comments