ENCOURAGEMENT FOR THE DAY

In Christ or Under the Law?

Romans 9:4e
... the receiving of the law...

 

Mosaic Law was given only to the people of Israel -- as a nation. Exodus 19:5-6: "Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, you will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation."

God also gave Israel the Sabbath Day. Exodus 31:12-13: "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Say to the Israelites, "You must observe my Sabbaths. This will be a sign between me and you for the generations to come, so you may know that I am the LORD, who makes you holy." ' "

In speaking with new believers, some have asked: "Why doesn't our church observe the Sabbath Day like the Jews? Isn't the requirement for keeping the Sabbath Day holy one of God's commandments? Has He changed His mind over the years?" I answer: "God is unchanging. The only thing that's been changed is us. We have been born again. With Jesus Christ in us, God has given us a completely 'new' relationship with Him." Because of God's covenant with Israel, all of mankind has received mercy and grace through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus. However, to Israel alone belongs the Sabbath Day and the many other requirements of Mosaic Law.

 

In Romans 3:20 we learned: "Therefore no one will be declared righteous in his sight by observing the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of sin." In other words, the Law makes us aware of what sin is, and thereby we understand our desperate need for a Savior. Has Jesus taken His place as Redeemer and Lord of your life?

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