Tag: Law

Jesus Unites Jews and Gentiles

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AMY TURNER

When Jesus gave His life, He removed the division that once separated Jews and Gentiles. This division was caused by the law, which acted like a wall, keeping the two groups apart. But through His death, Jesus fulfilled the law and took away its power to judge. By doing this, He brought both groups together and created something new—a united body, His church.

Ephesians 2:15 explains that Jesus ended the hostility caused by the law, making one new man out of two, and in this way, brought peace. This peace is not only between people, but also between us and God.

As believers, we must remember this unity, especially when we disagree on matters that are not essential to our faith. The church is meant to be a place of peace, not conflict. Christ made us one people through His sacrifice, and we should live in a way that reflects that peace.

If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all people.

Romans 12:18

Understanding Righteousness: Law vs. Faith

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TEXAS GOSPEL STAFF

Moses described righteousness through the law, saying, “The person who obeys these commands will live by them.” Paul, however, speaks of a righteousness based on faith. This doesn’t require impossible tasks like ascending to heaven or descending to the depths. Instead, it declares, “The message is near you, in your mouth and in your heart.” This is the message of faith we preach.

Paul wasn’t contrasting Moses’ covenant with Christ’s. Even in Deuteronomy, Moses pointed to the covenant of grace—a promise that has existed throughout all time. This covenant opposes the one given to Adam, which demanded perfect obedience. Paul lamented that his fellow Israelites, despite their zeal for God, misunderstood this. They tried to establish righteousness through their own efforts rather than accepting God’s gift of grace through faith in Christ.

The righteousness of the law demanded perfect, uninterrupted obedience—every action, thought, and desire aligned with God’s will. Falling short, even slightly, meant failure. In contrast, the righteousness of faith doesn’t demand perfection. It doesn’t ask us to earn God’s favor but instead calls us to trust in Jesus, who justifies the ungodly and imputes righteousness through faith. As Scripture says, “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness.”

This new covenant doesn’t require payment for sins because Christ has already paid the price. It offers forgiveness and salvation freely through faith. Unlike the unattainable demands of the law, this covenant is near and accessible. It invites us to bring our sins to God, who forgives them completely. We are justified not because we are righteous, but because God justifies those who believe in Him. So, believe in Jesus, and you will be saved.