Following the Law
Duane Vander Klok
“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.”
Matthew 5:17
When you hear the word “Law,” what do you think about? Do you hear a low booming voice from the Heavens that thunders, “LAW!” Do you simply skip over the laws in the Old Testament, and only focus on the ones that ‘truly’ apply to us today?
Scripture teaches us that no one is saved by works, but instead that our faith is established and strengthened through Jesus Christ. His actions on the cross two thousand years ago secured our salvation. We are called to one thing, and that is to believe and to follow Him. He is the Author and Finisher of our Faith, and is the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. So what does this mean for the Old Testament laws?
The point is that the “Law” was never meant to be a check-list to achieve salvation. Instead, it was all pointing to Jesus, to God Himself, and making us aware of our fallen nature. It shows all of humanity how much we need Him. It’s pointing to the fact that we cannot save ourselves, or do something alone that will earn our salvation. Instead, it all was pointing to something, SOMEONE, greater that was and is to come: Jesus Christ.
The “Law” is a greater story of God’s love, and His desire to redeem and draw closer to His creation. To draw closer to you! The whole of scripture is important and applicable to growing our faith in Him. This includes Leviticus, Numbers, and every long list of names that is difficult to read!
This week, let’s recalibrate our understanding of “Law.” When we hear “Law,” instead of hearing the booming voice, let’s pass it through a filter of faith that speaks with love, truth, and grace. Let’s look at it from the point of view of the Author, Finisher, and Fulfiller of the Law: Jesus Christ.