Christians are not under the law (that is, the first five books of the Bible). We live in the realm of grace (Rom 6:14). That makes sense. A lot of the Old Testament doesn’t seem relevant, except the 10 commandments and some other moral laws. So we keep them and get rid of the rest.
Let me state it again. Christians are not under the law. In fact, if you’re a non-Jew, you never were (Rom 2:14. 1 Cor 9:21 and Gal 4:8).
Paul uses the term 'under the law' some eleven times in eight verses spread over Galatians, Romans and 1 Corinthians. It refers to those who are Jewish or Jewish Christians. For Paul, there is a freedom that they can now experience. This is also why he is against placing Gentiles under the law.
So what do we make of the law?
Firstly, it helps to reveal our sinfulness (Rom 5:21). Christians are not under the law as letter, commandments, book, decrees or covenant. 1 Timothy 1:8-10 says that the law used lawfully is not for the righteous (believers), but to condemn the lawless. So the law reveals our need for salvation. It points out how terribly sinful we are. Let’s face it, we over estimate our strengths and ignore our weaknesses. The law helps us to understand our old nature.
Secondly, we get a better picture of love. I believe this is how Jesus uses the law in Matthew 5. He shows what the exemplary love is behind the law. It is the principles that govern loving relationships which those in Christ want to follow.
But if we're not to throw it out, how should we use it? More to come
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