The concept of returning to the Mosaic Law after embracing the grace offered through Jesus Christ is addressed in several New Testament passages, particularly in the writings of the Apostle Paul. This topic is significant in understanding the transition from the Old Covenant, based on adherence to the Law, to the New Covenant, centered on faith in Christ.

Galatians and the Law

The Epistle to the Galatians is a primary source for understanding the folly of reverting to the Law. Paul writes to the Galatian church, which was being influenced by Judaizers who insisted that Gentile converts must observe the Mosaic Law, including circumcision, to be true Christians. Paul admonishes them, saying, "Are you so foolish? After starting in the Spirit, are you now finishing in the flesh?" (Galatians 3:3). Here, Paul emphasizes that beginning their Christian journey by the Spirit should not be completed by returning to the fleshly observance of the Law.

Paul further argues that the Law served as a "guardian until Christ came, that we might be justified by faith" (Galatians 3:24). With the coming of Christ, believers are no longer under this guardian. Returning to the Law, therefore, is seen as a regression from the freedom found in Christ to the bondage of legalism.

Romans and Justification by Faith

In the Book of Romans, Paul elaborates on the theme of justification by faith apart from the works of the Law. He states, "For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from works of the Law" (Romans 3:28). This declaration underscores the sufficiency of faith in Christ for salvation, rendering the works of the Law unnecessary for justification.

Paul also addresses the purpose of the Law, explaining that it was given to make people aware of sin, but it is through faith in Jesus that one is justified. "For Christ is the end of the Law, to bring righteousness to everyone who believes" (Romans 10:4). The Law's role was to point to Christ, and returning to it after accepting Christ is seen as a denial of His completed work.

Hebrews and the New Covenant

The Book of Hebrews contrasts the Old and New Covenants, highlighting the superiority of the latter. The author writes, "By calling this covenant 'new,' He has made the first one obsolete; and what is obsolete and aging will soon disappear" (Hebrews 8:13). The New Covenant, established through the blood of Christ, fulfills and surpasses the Old Covenant, rendering a return to the Law unnecessary and unwise.

The sacrificial system of the Law is also addressed, with the author of Hebrews noting that the sacrifices were a shadow of the good things to come, but they could never make perfect those who draw near (Hebrews 10:1). In contrast, Christ's sacrifice is once for all, perfecting those who are sanctified (Hebrews 10:14).

The Jerusalem Council

The early church faced the challenge of integrating Gentile believers, which led to the Jerusalem Council as recorded in Acts 15. The council concluded that Gentile converts should not be burdened with the yoke of the Law, which even the Jewish forefathers were unable to bear (Acts 15:10). This decision affirmed the understanding that salvation is through the grace of the Lord Jesus and not through the Law.

Conclusion

The New Testament consistently presents the return to the Law as a misunderstanding of the gospel of grace. The Law served its purpose in leading people to Christ, but with His coming, believers are called to live by faith, empowered by the Spirit, and not by the letter of the Law.