The Promise, The Law, and Jesus
In our journey of faith, many of us have grappled with the relationship between the law and the promise of grace. How do these two seemingly opposing concepts fit together in the grand narrative of Scripture? This question is beautifully addressed in Galatians 3:15-22, where the Apostle Paul unpacks the unbreakable promise of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.
God’s Unbreakable Promise
The central truth of this passage is that God’s promise of salvation through faith in Jesus is unbreakable, unshakable, and unstoppable. The law was never intended to replace this promise; rather, it was given to reveal our need for Jesus. Just as a legal contract cannot be altered once it is duly established, God’s covenant with Abraham remains intact, fulfilled in Christ, the promised seed.
The Purpose of the Law
Why, then, was the law given? Paul explains that it was added because of transgressions, to show us our sins and our need for a Savior. The law acts like a mirror, revealing our shortcomings but unable to cleanse us. It is a tutor, guiding us to Christ, the fulfillment of the promise. As D.L. Moody aptly put it, “The law is a mirror to show us our sin, but a mirror cannot wash away the dirt.”
The Law and the Promise: Not Opposed, But Complementary
The law and the promise are not in conflict; they serve different roles. The law exposes sin, while the promise offers salvation through faith in Jesus. If righteousness could be achieved through the law, there would be no need for Christ. But the law, like an X-ray, can only diagnose the problem; it is Jesus who heals.
Living in the Promise
Our salvation is based on God’s promise, not our performance. This is a liberating truth that shifts our focus from striving to trusting. As Tim Keller noted, “The law is not the enemy of grace; it’s the preparation for grace.” The law makes us desperate for a Savior, and grace provides that Savior in Jesus Christ.
A Call to Trust in Jesus
In a world where we often place our trust in temporary things—governments, jobs, even ourselves—Paul’s message in Galatians calls us to put our trust in the only sure foundation: Jesus Christ. The promise given to Abraham is fulfilled in Him, and it is available to all who believe.
As we reflect on this passage, let us remember that we are not called to earn God’s love but to receive it. Let us embrace the promise of salvation through faith in Jesus, allowing His grace to transform our lives.
Conclusion
The harmony between the law and the promise is a testament to God’s perfect plan for redemption. As we navigate our faith journey, may we continually look to Jesus, the fulfillment of the promise, and live in the freedom and assurance that His grace provides.
Let us take time to worship and honor Him, recognizing that Jesus is enough. Whether you are new to this journey or have walked it for years, the invitation remains the same: come to the table of the Lord, and experience the fullness of His promise.