Introduction

Living by God's law today involves understanding and applying the principles and commandments found in the Bible to contemporary life. This entry explores the relevance and application of God's law for believers, emphasizing the continuity of moral and ethical standards from the Old and New Testaments.

The Nature of God's Law

God's law, as revealed in the Scriptures, is a reflection of His holy and righteous character. It serves as a guide for righteous living and a standard by which believers are called to conduct themselves. The law is summarized in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17) and further expounded upon in various statutes and ordinances throughout the Old Testament. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ affirms the enduring nature of God's moral law, stating, "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).

The Role of the Law in the Life of Believers

For Christians, the law serves several purposes:

1. Revealing Sin: The law acts as a mirror, revealing humanity's sinful nature and need for a Savior. As Paul writes, "Therefore no one will be justified in His sight by works of the law. For the law merely brings awareness of sin" (Romans 3:20).

2. Guiding Righteous Living: While believers are not justified by the law, it remains a guide for living a life pleasing to God. The psalmist declares, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path" (Psalm 119:105).

3. Reflecting God's Character: By adhering to God's commandments, believers reflect His holiness and righteousness. Peter exhorts, "But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do" (1 Peter 1:15).

The Fulfillment of the Law in Christ

Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of the law, embodying its perfect righteousness and offering Himself as the ultimate sacrifice for sin. Through His life, death, and resurrection, He established a new covenant, enabling believers to live by the Spirit rather than the letter of the law. Paul explains, "For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the flesh, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful man, as an offering for sin" (Romans 8:3).

The Law of Love

In the New Testament, the law is encapsulated in the command to love God and love others. Jesus summarizes the law with these words: "‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments" (Matthew 22:37-40).

Practical Application

Living by God's law today involves a heart transformed by the Holy Spirit, resulting in a life characterized by love, obedience, and holiness. Believers are called to:

· Study the Scriptures: Regular engagement with God's Word is essential for understanding His commandments and applying them to daily life (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

· Walk by the Spirit: The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live according to God's standards, producing the fruit of the Spirit in their lives (Galatians 5:22-23).

· Engage in Community: The church provides a supportive environment for accountability, encouragement, and growth in living out God's law (Hebrews 10:24-25).

Conclusion

Living by God's law today is a dynamic process of aligning one's life with the eternal truths of Scripture, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and motivated by love for God and others. Through this, believers bear witness to the transformative power of the Gospel in a world in need of redemption.