The Law’s Purpose

The Law’s Purpose — John 7:19-24

Jesus had been in trouble with the religious leaders for his actions on the Sabbath

Exodus 20:8-10

The Law Always Condemns

John 7:19

Those who trust in the law will be condemned by the law because no one keeps it perfectly

Legalism: “it is a term Christians use to describe a doctrinal position emphasizing a system of rules and regulations for achieving both salvation and spiritual growth. Legalists believe in and demand a strict literal adherence to rules and regulations… Those who hold a legalistic position often fail to see the real purpose for law, especially the purpose of the Old Testament law of Moses, which is to be our “schoolmaster” or “tutor” to bring us to Christ (Galatians 3:24).” ~GotQuestions.org

The Law points us to Christ

Legalism gets the  cart before the horse (It makes obedience a condition of salvation or spiritual growth)

Obedience to the law comes from a heart of faith — obedience is a product of saving faith

Illustration: King David

The Nature of God’s law: It demands perfection

The problem is not the Law of God — the law is perfect but you and I are not

Trusting the Law makes one a Hypocrite 

The Legalist will condemn behavior in another but excuse it in their own lives 

Why did God give us the law if no one can be saved by it and it makes one a hypocrite when they trust in it?

The law was a standard given in order to convince men and women of their true hopeless condition so they might turn from their own efforts in achieving salvation and come to God and find grace and mercy.

The Law functions as a mirror

What about those in the Old Testament? God gave the Law – he also gave instructions concerning sacrifices at the same time

Illustration: the King of Scotland