Topical Encyclopedia The Jews, as the chosen people of God, hold a significant place in biblical history and theology. Their relationship with the Law, given through Moses, is central to understanding their role in God's redemptive plan. The Law, or Torah, comprises the first five books of the Bible and serves as the foundation of Jewish religious life and identity.Covenant and Election The election of the Jews as God's chosen people is rooted in the covenant made with Abraham. Genesis 12:2-3 states, "I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you; and all the families of the earth will be blessed through you." This covenant established the Jews as a distinct people through whom God would reveal Himself and His purposes to the world. The Giving of the Law The Law was given to the Israelites at Mount Sinai, as recorded in Exodus 19-20. It was a divine revelation that set the Jews apart as a holy nation. Exodus 19:5-6 declares, "Now if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, you will be My treasured possession out of all the nations—for the whole earth is Mine. And unto Me you shall be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation." The Law provided moral, ceremonial, and civil guidelines that governed every aspect of Jewish life. Purpose of the Law The Law served multiple purposes. It was a means of revealing God's holiness and the sinfulness of humanity. Romans 3:20 states, "Therefore no one will be justified in His sight by works of the law. For the law merely brings awareness of sin." The Law also functioned as a tutor to lead the Jews to Christ, as Paul explains in Galatians 3:24 , "So the law became our guardian to lead us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith." The Jews and the Promises The Jews were entrusted with the oracles of God, as noted in Romans 3:2 , "They have been entrusted with the very words of God." This stewardship included the promises of a coming Messiah, who would fulfill the Law and the Prophets. The Jews anticipated the arrival of this Savior, who would establish God's kingdom and bring salvation to all nations. The Fulfillment in Christ Jesus Christ, born under the Law, fulfilled its righteous requirements and prophecies. Matthew 5:17 records Jesus' words, "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." Through His life, death, and resurrection, Christ inaugurated a new covenant, offering salvation to both Jews and Gentiles. The Continuing Role of the Jews The Jews continue to play a vital role in God's plan. Romans 11:1 affirms, "I ask then, did God reject His people? Certainly not!" The apostle Paul speaks of a future restoration of Israel, when many Jews will recognize Jesus as the Messiah. Romans 11:26 proclaims, "And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written: 'The Deliverer will come from Zion, He will remove godlessness from Jacob.'" In summary, the Jews and the Law are integral to understanding the unfolding of God's redemptive history. The Law served as a guide and a guardian, pointing to the need for a Savior, while the Jews remain a testament to God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises. |