Me ~ Paul said in Romans "that a man is justified by faith apart from observing the law... and that it was not through law that Abraham and his offspring received the promise that he would be heir of the world, but through the righteousness that comes by faith. For if those who live by law are heirs, faith has no value and the promise is worthless, because law brings wrath... the law was added so that the trespass might increase; but, where sin increased grace increased all the more, so that just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."
The law and laws are what make civilized people and free. I think most people would agree with that. Perhaps, it is for this reason that the law is what we in this fallen world have been subjected to in order that we overcome this fallen world.
John ~ Well, the law increases where sin increases. This is a fallen world and sin is ever increasing; the world of nature and science reveal the state of decay - corruption. Because sin is so onerous God introduced grace knowing that man could not save himself in this state of decay. If sin remained unchecked without the presence of God's spirit in this world it would destroy the entire world.
Me ~ But, isn't total destruction revealed in Revelations?
John ~ Jesus said that if he did not return to stop the march of sin, everything would be destroyed. He is going to intervene in time to stop it. This is a future event.
Me ~ I understand. Let's go back to the law. Jesus through Paul and in His own teachings showed us that the law is more than we can accomplish on our own. Right?
John ~ Correct, the law is impossible for fallen man to obey. The law does not restrain evil. God's spirit does. God's law was very comprehensive covering every conceivable behavior that people could commit. He had prescriptions on how to deal with it. It was so detailed that it was burdensome, in fact impossible for anyone to fully obey. Which is why God introduced the blood sacrifices for the atonement of sin for the breaking of the law. He sent His only Son to atone for sin for those who would accept it.
Me ~ Why does man then continue to make laws which he thinks will make this world a better place?
John ~ Because, laws do temporarily restrain sin but do not eliminate sin. Hence, laws are strengthen and created; however this has the unfortunate affect of eliminating personal freedom. God's solution goes directly to the heart of the matter by changing the hearts of people; so that they no longer desire to do wrong. Thus, preserving individual liberty and increasing it.
Me ~ Amen!!!
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