Descriptions Of Our Law
With the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, all humanity became subject to the law which bears His name. If we have been baptized into Christ, we are Christians and are subsequently subject to the Christian law. Prior to this new testament, an "old law" which was inferior to Christ's (called the law of Moses) would be that which was the focus of the majority of the Bible's pages. Understanding our law and what it provides us is not only an important exercise but it's also an uplifting reminder of how gracious our God truly is.
Our law is a law of liberty. James writes, "He who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does" (James 1:25). This inspired writer makes a clear connection between a man who is complete, full, and blessed with God's law of liberty.
Our freedom from sin is the great blessing of obedience to God. The law to which we are subject is not one of bondage but one of brilliant opportunity. Instead of entrapment, you and I are redeemed sinners whose shackles of sins have been broken off by the Savior Himself. Understanding that our law is not simply commandments to be followed but rather that which lives in us and grants us life will certainly help us appreciate this law of liberty.
Our law is a law of love. Paul writes, "The law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself'" (Galatians 5:14). Love is our most powerful emotion and it plays a huge role in everything we do. Paul approaches the subject of God's law by stating that this emotion is at its very core.
In everything we do in fulfilling the law of Christ, love must be our motivating factor. Jesus said that the first and great commandment is to "love the Lord" and that the second was to "love your neighbor as yourself" (Matthew 22:37-39). Jesus Christ not only spoke about love but His life and His death were testimonies to His love and devotion. As we carry on His mission and fulfill His law, it is love that must be at the center of all that we do.
Finally, our law is a law of royalty. James writes about the law and says it is a "royal law" (James 2:8). The apostle Peter, describing us as Christians, says that we are a "royal priesthood" which has been chosen by God (I Peter 2:9). The scriptures describe our Savior as the "King of kings and Lord of lords" (I Timothy 6:15). It's an understatement, but we are incredibly blessed to be considered a key part of God's royal kingdom and be subject to such a wonderful and gracious monarch.
As we continue to do God's will and follow His law, let us be reminded that it's more than just a law to seek. From God's law comes liberty, a reminder to love as He has loved, and the great privilege of being a member of royalty. Let us carry that message to others while reminding ourselves of His great law and the important roles it plays in our lives.