Don't Misunderstand!

“Don’t misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose. I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not even the smallest detail of God’s law will disappear until its purpose is achieved. So if you ignore the least commandment and teach others to do the same, you will be called the least in the Kingdom of Heaven. But anyone who obeys God’s laws and teaches them will be called great in the Kingdom of Heaven. [Matthew 5.17-19]

What is the purpose of God's law and the prophets?

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The purpose of God's law and the prophets was, is, and ever will be, to reveal Jesus. God's law and the prophets revealed Jesus in those who anticipated His walk earth. God's law and the prophets revealed Jesus as He walked the earth in person. God's law and the prophets reveal Jesus as He walks the earth in us today.

Use of God's law and the prophets for any other purpose is false religion.

So, what is required of those who walk in Jesus? Everything the law and prophets said. 

First, God's Commandments - God's law must be kept: namely not only keep God first, but keep God only, no idols whatsoever - no allowances, no excuses, no misuse of God's name to save face for idolatry, honoring Jesus (the Sabbath) in everything, and treating others as we wish to be treated. Jesus is central to it all.

Secondly, God's prophets - God's word concerning failure to keep His law. This one is summed up in one word: repent.

Unironically, Jesus summed all this up in one carefully-crafted statement:

If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. [Matthew 16.24]

Because the purpose of the law and the prophets is Jesus, any attempt to downplay or lessen their role is nothing less than the work of Satan. It is indeed false religion deceptively hiding behind a cloak of "grace" never intended. To ignore the law and the prophets calling it "grace" is to ignore Jesus missing the point entirely.

Father, may the false grace teaching that is so popular today be revealed for what it really is. May the true grace of God's undeserved call to Jesus be seen as the reason we might be chosen when and only when we submit entirely in faith. May we give up our own way, take up our cross, and follow Jesus. So be it.