Words of Grace – April 28, 2016

It has been often stated that in the study of the Word of God, it is of utmost importance to be able to distinguish between the things that differ.  Much confusion has arisen over the years concerning the subjects of law and grace.

John writes in his Gospel that “the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ” (1:17).  The Old Testament Law of Moses is contrasted with the New Testament grace of the Lord Jesus.  Renowned Bible teacher Merrill Unger writes of the contrast as follows:

“Law demands righteousness from man; grace bestows righteousness upon man.

Law blesses the good; grace saves the bad.

Law requires merit; grace is without human merit.

Law demands its blessings be earned; grace is a free gift.

Law is prohibiting and demanding; grace is beseeching and bestowing.

Law ministers condemnation; grace provides forgiveness.

Law shuts every mouth before God; grace opens every mouth to praise God.

Law makes guilty man tremble; grace makes him rejoice.”

Yes, we can rejoice “because we are not under the law, but under grace” (Romans 6:15).