Does God's Law Favor One Group, or Is It Universally Embraced?
In this article, you will learn how Psalms 147:20 contradicts Matthew 28:19, Romans 2:14, Acts 10:34-35 and Galatians 3:28. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
The Bible contains a rich tapestry of messages, some of which appear contradictory at face value. A prime example is found in comparing Psalms 147:20 with several passages in the New Testament. Psalms 147:20 emphasizes that God gave His statutes exclusively to the people of Israel. This message suggests a unique relationship between God and Israel, as if Israel were a favored child privy to specific divine instructions.
However, as we turn to the New Testament, a broader, more inclusive narrative begins to unfold. In Matthew 28:19, Jesus commands His disciples to teach all nations, which seems to open the door to all peoples, suggesting that divine teachings are not solely for Israel. This shift moves away from a prerogative reserved for one nation to a universal mission.
Romans 2:14 adds another layer, stating that Gentiles naturally follow the law's principles even without having it explicitly. This implies a universal moral understanding implanted by God, which contradicts the notion of exclusivity presented in Psalms. Similarly, Acts 10:34-35 shows Peter's realization that God is impartial, accepting anyone from any nation who fears Him and does right. This further blurs the distinct lines of national favoritism cited in Psalms.
Moreover, Galatians 3:28, in declaring unity irrespective of ethnicity or status in Christ, challenges the idea of exclusive access to God's laws, promoting the notion of equal standing before God for all believers.
Imagine a family recipe said to be shared only with one child, yet eventually, it's revealed to all siblings and even friends. The once-exclusive instructions become a shared treasure. In the same way, these texts reflect a journey from perceived exclusivity to inclusivity, raising questions about how divine laws were intended to function in the broader human community.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Psalms 147:20 | He hath not dealt so with any nation: and [as for his] judgments, they have not known them. Praise ye the LORD. |
| 2. | Matthew 28:19 | Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: [teach...: or, make disciples, or, Christians of all nations] |
| 3. | Romans 2:14 | For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves: |
| 4. | Acts 10:34-35 | Then Peter opened [his] mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: |
| 5. | Galatians 3:28 | There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. |