I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me. I do not nullify the grace of God, for if righteousness comes through the Law, then Christ died needlessly. Galatians 2:20-21 NASB
There was a problem in the early church. Should Greek (Gentile) believers be circumcised in keeping with the Mosaic law? The apostle Paul said unequivocally- No!
A major part of the good news (gospel) is that a person does not (and cannot) be justified by keeping the law. Though the law is holy and worthy, man is inadequate to keep it and stands condemned before God (all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God- Romans 3:23). So, God made a way for us to be forgiven of our sins by His grace and the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. In doing so, we enter a new life (the old one, left dead and gone) in which, by faith, we follow Jesus example and commands- becoming like Him in word, thought and deed. We are led by the Spirit of God, not the keeping of the law. No fleshly act like circumcision can justify one before God.
Do I have a tendency to justify myself before God by ‘good works’ or do I come to Him by faith, trusting only in what Jesus has done on my behalf? How much freedom has the gospel brought into my life experience?
God, as this day begins, I am reminded just how wonderful it is to be forgiven and to not have the burden of the law over me… but a new law written upon my heart to guide me. In this I find great freedom. May the old man living inside of me, be crucified indeed and in deed. Please use my thoughts, words and actions to build Your kingdom, express Your love and make a difference today.
