Which law was abolished at the Cross?

Some sincere Christians believe that the law of God was abolished at the Cross. They base their belief on verses such as “Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace” (Ephesians 2:15) and “Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ” (Colossians 2:16, 17). Let’s allow the Bible to clarify this important topic and explore the nuances of the laws that govern our faith.

Moses’ Law Abolished at the Cross

Moses’ law refers to the temporary, ceremonial law of the Old Testament. This law regulated the priesthood, sacrifices, feasts, rituals, and meat and drink offerings, all of which foreshadowed Christ’s ultimate sacrifice and came to an end at the Cross. The Bible states that this law was added “till the seed should come,” and that seed was Christ (Galatians 3:16, 19). The rituals and sacrifices of Moses’ law pointed forward to Christ’s sacrifice, and when He died, this law was fulfilled and came to an end.

In ancient Israel, there were seven yearly holy days known as sabbaths, in addition to the weekly seventh-day Sabbath. These yearly sabbath feasts, along with all the temple ceremonies, pointed to the Cross and ceased to be necessary after Christ’s death. This is illustrated by the tearing of the temple veil at Jesus’ death, signifying the end of sacrificial offerings (Matthew 27:51). The ceremonial aspects of the law were fulfilled in Christ, and thus, they were abolished.

God’s Law Stands Forever

God’s Moral law has existed as long as sin has existed. The Bible states, “Where no law is, there is no transgression [or sin]” (Romans 4:15). According to Scripture, “sin is the transgression of the law” (1 John 3:4). While the Mosaic law was against us (Colossians 2:14), the Ten Commandments are not contrary to us. It is not against early Christians to refrain from adultery, theft, lying, keeping the seventh-day Sabbath, murder, or coveting. In fact, the moral law provides protection for those who adhere to it, guiding them toward a life of righteousness.

Canceling the moral law is impossible because Jesus said, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled” (Matthew 5:17, 18). He further stated, “And it is easier for heaven and earth to pass, than one tittle of the law to fail” (Luke 16:17). This is because God’s Moral Law “stands fast for ever and ever” (Psalms 111:8). It is a reflection of His character and an essential guide for humanity.

The apostle Paul confirms that God’s Moral Law is still in effect: “What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet” (Romans 7:7). He also states, “Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law” (Romans 3:31). This indicates that faith does not nullify the law but rather affirms its importance in the life of a believer.

Divine Grace for Obedience

Christ came to this earth to honor the law (Isaiah 42:21) and to demonstrate through His life of perfect obedience that believers can, with the strengthening grace of the Father, obey His law. Through divine grace and power, believers can be “saved to the uttermost” (Hebrews 7:25), be “more than conquerors” (Romans 8:37), and “always triumph” (2 Corinthians 2:14). If Satan can lead people to sin, God can certainly empower them to resist sin. Paul affirmed, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). This assurance is vital for Christians striving to live a life that honors God.

The purpose of the law is to convict of sin (Romans 3:20) and to establish a standard of righteousness. However, it has no power to save the sinner. Instead, the law leads the sinner to Christ for cleansing (Galatians 3:24). Faith and love will then inspire a new obedience to the law of God-an obedience that springs from faith (Romans 1:5; 16:26) and love (Romans 13:8, 10). The Holy Spirit transforms the believer’s life so that “the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit” (Romans 8:4).

Justification by faith illustrates God’s high regard for His law, as it demands and provides the atoning sacrifice. If justification by faith nullified the law, there would be no need for the sacrificial death of the Savior to free the guilty sinner from sin and restore reconciliation with God. True faith involves a willingness to fulfill God’s will in obedience to His law (Romans 3:28). This faith is rooted in genuine love for the Redeemer, which leads to obedience. The suffering Christ endured due to our transgressions of God’s law serves as a powerful motivation for obedience.

Practical Application of the Law

Understanding the distinction between the laws is crucial for Christians today. The moral law serves as a guide for ethical living, while the ceremonial law pointed to Christ’s redemptive work. As believers, we are called to live in accordance with God’s Moral law, which is timeless and applicable in every generation. This means actively engaging in practices that reflect God’s character, such as honesty, integrity, and love towards others.

Moreover, the law encourages community and social responsibility. By adhering to the moral principles laid out in the Ten Commandments, Christians can foster a society that values respect, compassion, and justice. This is particularly important in a world that often strays from these values.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Moses’ ceremonial law was abolished at the Cross, God’s Moral law remains eternal and unchanging. Understanding this distinction is crucial for Christians as they navigate their faith and strive for obedience to God’s commandments. By embracing the moral law, believers can experience the fullness of life that comes from living in harmony with God’s will.