The Romance of Romans-Part 91
Michael
If you learn to love, you will fulfill the essence and intent of God's
moral law. Whatever specific commandment of God's you can name- "You
shall not commit adultery", "You shall not murder", "You shall not
steal", "You shall not give false testimony", "You shall not covet",
or any of the others; they all are rooted in the concept of- "You
shall love your neighbor as yourself." It is impossible for genuine
love to perpetrate an injustice toward others. That's why it fulfills
God’s moral law.
Comments:
Maybe a good way of summarizing the difference that Jesus has made in
the world is to notice the above contrast. The Law of Moses often
focused on "shall not" and the New Covenant focuses on "shall".
And...the "shall" becomes more than a commandment. It takes on the
form and power of a promise. In Christ and by the power of the
indwelling Holy Spirit, we "shall" love...both God and people from our
renewed hearts out to very concrete and practical specifics that then,
as a naturally/supernatural by-product, keep us from sinning. This is
why life in Jesus takes us far beyond a life of "sin-management".
Jn 1:17--For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came
through Jesus Christ.
Happy New Year to all our friends!