Did Jesus abolish the law? This is a complex question that has been the subject of much theological debate over the centuries. In general, no, Christians believe that Jesus did not abolish the Law, but rather fulfilled it through his life, death, and resurrection.
Jesus himself said in the Gospel of Matthew, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.” (Matthew 5:17).
And if that was not clear enough, Jesus also said, “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 5:18).
What was nailed to the cross if not the law?
However, some debate the meaning of Colossians 2:13-14, arguing that it says the law of God was nailed to the cross when Jesus was nailed to the cross. Making the law null and void now.
If these two verses are studied in depth, the key to their understanding is what is meant by the “handwriting of ordinances that was against us”.
The word ordinances makes it read as if this is referring to the law of God. But the law of God itself is not against us. Just like the person who got the speeding ticket, the law about speeding itself is not against them.
But when you break the law, then you have a record against you. We have a record of sin, transgressing God’s law.
Jesus’ sacrifice of being nailed to the cross wipes away the record of our sin, taking it out of the way of our salvation.
What does it mean Jesus fulfilled the law?
This is because transgression of the law is sin (1 John 3:4). And the wages, or punishment, for sin is death (Romans 6:23).
Jesus came and saved us from our sin, by taking our punishment of death. In this way, He fulfilled the law. Just like if someone broke the law by speeding, gets pulled over and ticketed, goes to court, and is sentenced for punishment to pay a fine. By paying the fine, the law is fulfilled. Jesus paid our fine.
So, the Ten Commandments remain an important guide to ethical behavior for Christians.
In light of this, Christians understand the Ten Commandments as the moral law revealed by God to the Israelites, and as a guide to ethical behavior that is still relevant and applicable today. Jesus himself affirmed the importance of the commandments when he said, “…but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments” (Matthew 19:17).
What are the original ten commandments given by God?
The Ten Commandments are a set of 10 divine laws given by God, written by His own finger on two stones at the top of Mount Sinai (Exodus 31:18), to guide and direct humanity toward living a righteous and holy life. These commandments are meant to serve as a foundation for our faith and are an expression of God’s love for His creation.
The abbreviated ten commandments are as follows:
- You shall have no other gods before me.
- You shall not make for yourself an idol.
- You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.
- Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.
- Honor your father and your mother.
- You shall not murder.
- You shall not commit adultery.
- You shall not steal.
- You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.
- You shall not covet anything that belongs to your neighbor.
Why are the Ten Commandments important? Are they still important today?
But why did God need to write them? God gave the Ten Commandments to humanity because He desires a close and intimate relationship with us and can’t tolerate sin (Habakkuk 1:13). He wants us to live a life that is pleasing to Him and to reflect His character and love to everyone. The commandments are not given as a burden or punishment, but rather as a means of protection and guidance. They help us to live in harmony with others and with God, and to avoid the harmful and destructive consequences of sin.
The Ten Commandments are also significant because they provide a standard of morality and justice that transcends time and culture. They are relevant to all people, in all places, and at all times, and they provide a clear and unmistakable direction for how we should live our lives. They are a reflection of God’s unchanging character and His desire for us to live in accordance with His will.
In today’s world, the Ten Commandments are as relevant and important as ever. Despite the cultural and societal changes that have taken place over the centuries, the principles embodied in the commandments remain timeless and applicable to every generation. They continue to provide guidance for how we should treat one another and how we should live our lives in a manner that is pleasing to God.
Lesson 6 Study Guide by Amazing Facts:
Why are the Ten Commandments written on stone? Have the commandments been changed?
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Our Adventist Life is a dedicated online evangelist and mother of two, deeply rooted in her Seventh-day Adventist faith. With over 15 years of experience in creating and optimizing digital content, she brings a unique blend of professional expertise and spiritual insight to her work. Her passion lies in exploring Biblical truths and their practical applications in daily living, self-care, and family nurturing. Through her writing, she aims to inspire and guide her readers toward a more fulfilling Christian lifestyle, drawing from her own experiences as a parent and a follower of Christ. Her thoughtful and engaging content reflects her commitment to sharing the love and wisdom found in the Scriptures with a modern audience living in the end times.
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