Law vs Grace?
OR
Law to Grace?
For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. Romans 8:2-4
Christ gave his life for us so that we would not have to die for our sins. The law told the flesh to live holy without the sacrifice of Christ in place. That made the law weak. God sent Jesus to condemn sin in the flesh instead of condeming sin with his inspired book only. God did this so that he could see his written will become more evident in people's lives. This is possible for those who receive Jesus and live according to Jesus's example while denying the old man. (my paraphrasing)
Now. I have heard it said that God did away with the law at the cross. Let's not be so hasty.
Jesus said:
Do not think that I have come to do away with the Law of Moses and the teachings of the prophets. I have not come to do away with them, but to make their teachings come true. 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
Now I don't think God desires for us to wear a kippa and shawl, celebrate Jewish Feasts, throw away our pork chops, and move to Israel. That would be okay I guess but don't do it unless God says so. But, God demands righteousness even today. Even after we accept Jesus, there is no license to sin!
God still demands righteousness. When we die, God will bring justice to all people. Now, if you have accepted Christ and are living according to God's standard, then you will be delivered righteous justice and enter Heaven. If you die without receiving Christ, backslidden, and or living not according to God's standard then you will be delivered righteous judgement and you will be escorted to Hell. Either way, you will be delivered justice!
Keep in mind that we no longer have to attempt to live according to the law without Jesus. It would be a difficult thing to live according to God's standard on the strength of one's will alone. We now have Christ. Christ has also allowed those who receive Him to be empowered by the Holy Spirit to live a more godly life and become a more effective witness.
Many Christian circles preach a feel good gospel. They tell people they will have an easier life journey if they accept Christ. This is not effective evangelism. The people must know that they must accept Christ because all mankind will receive righteous judgment. People must be made aware of their sin with the law. The knowledge of God's law will bring repentance. The knowledge of God's law will bring lasting change.
If you desire to see less falling away then stop preaching a feel good gospel that says that Jesus will make the journey easier. That is only an added benefit when after someone receives Christ. The Gospel must be presented by showing people they have violated God's law. This is the only means by which lasting faith will come.
Jeremy Brown 2004
Also see:
Romans 6:14-15; Matthew 13:3-9; Matthew 13:18-23; Luke 8:4-15