Answer

Law and Gospel

According to the bible, law refers to any command or code given to people by God to do or never do something for their benefit, divine growth, and well-being. Anytime something is promised and strings are attached, law is involved. Gospel refers to God’s teachings that give unconditional favor and acceptance with no strings attached. In Christianity, gospel refers to good teachings of Jesus Christ, entailing His life, death, and resurrection. The gospel message is to have faith in Christ and follow his teachings. This essay, therefore, discusses the purpose of law and gospel, how they function, importance of distinguishing between law and gospel, and their applications in peoples’ lives.

            Biblical law functions as a curb. For instance, it restricts mankind to do God’s wants and things that keep them closer to Him. Additionally, law functions as a mirror, showing man his sins and how he stands against God’s commands. Law also works as a guide, to direct man through what is proper and required by God. Biblical law is intended to those who fail to acknowledge their sins. Christians need law to point out their shortcomings and the need for forgiveness. Gospel on the other hand, saves mankind from the penalty of sin by teaching Christians about the importance of obeying God’s commands. Moreover, Gospel changes Christians’ spiritually and make them alive since it has a motivating capability.

            It is vital to differentiate between law and Gospel when reading God’s word. Suitable distinction between law and gospel paves way for accurate comprehension of God’s words and plans for Christians. Law entails commands and limits, while Gospel entails grace, forgiveness, and comfort. Law reveals God’s will to man and helps Christians acknowledge their sins while gospel declares man’s deliverance in Christ. Furthermore, the ability to distinguish law from gospel is the fundamental means by which Christians properly comprehend their faith. Gospel is intended to those who have been brought to realize their sin and need for salvation while law is intended to those who fail to accept their sins.

            Law and Gospel are applied differently in people’s lives. Law enable Christians understand the moral standards God has set for them. This helps them to have a divine relationship with God. Law also enables Christians acknowledge their sins and helps them realize their stand against God’s will. Gospel helps in getting rid of the corrupt human nature while creating a new life within Christians. The old sinful self is continually put to death with the law and the new person is given life and comfort with the Gospel.

            A simple comprehension of law and Gospel is vital in the interpretation of the bible. A passage may be treated as either law or Gospel depending on the levels of understanding. For instance, in Proverbs 5:21,” For your deeds are in complete sight of the Lord, and he observes all your tracks.” The passage would instill fear on one person by viewing it as a Law, while another person would view it as Gospel, reminding them of God’s care and love.