Are We Free from the Law Through Faith or Not?
In this article, you will learn how Galatians 3:25 contradicts Romans 6:14, Matthew 5:17, James 2:24, Matthew 19:17, 1 Corinthians 7:19 and Romans 3:31. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
In the journey of faith, we often encounter seemingly conflicting messages, especially regarding the role of the law. Galatians 3:25 suggests that through faith in Jesus, we no longer require the law as a guide. This appears straightforward, yet when we delve into other parts of biblical scripture, contradictions seem to surface.
For instance, Romans 6:14 implies that while faith releases us from sin's grasp, the law still holds significance, reinforcing the idea of grace. Similarly, Matthew 5:17 records Jesus asserting He came not to abolish the law but to fulfill it. This suggests that the law's relevance continues despite the advent of faith.
James 2:24 offers another perspective, emphasizing that genuine faith is evidenced through works, which seemingly contradicts the notion that faith alone emancipates us from the law. In line with this, Matthew 19:17 recounts Jesus instructing a man to keep the commandments to gain eternal life, illustrating the ongoing necessity of the law.
Moreover, 1 Corinthians 7:19 shows Paul emphasizing that "keeping the commandments of God" is what truly matters, indicating that the law still plays a critical role in a believer's life. Romans 3:31 also underpins this view by implying that faith does not nullify the law but rather upholds it.
Consider an analogy: if a student masters the principles of mathematics, they may no longer need constant lessons, but they still abide by mathematical rules when solving problems. Similarly, faith in Christ may offer freedom from rigid adherence to the law, but it doesn't eradicate the importance of the law altogether.
These scriptures pose a rich tapestry of perspectives. Do we cast aside the law entirely, or is faith meant to guide us alongside the principles the law embodies? This question invites deeper reflection on the harmonious balance between faith and the law in the life of a believer.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Galatians 3:25 | But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. |
| 2. | Romans 6:14 | For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. |
| 3. | Matthew 5:17 | Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. |
| 4. | James 2:24 | Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only. |
| 5. | Matthew 19:17 | And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? [there is] none good but one, [that is], God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. |
| 6. | 1 Corinthians 7:19 | Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but the keeping of the commandments of God. |
| 7. | Romans 3:31 | Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law. |