Colossians 2:20 Therefore, if you died with Christ from the basic principles of the world, why, as though living in the world, do you subject yourselves to regulations?

 

There is much discussion and debate between believers today on the subject of the Law. As we read and study Paul’s Letters to the various churches, we find this to be a reoccurring subject. The people simply could not let go of the Law and unfortunately, this is still the case to this day.

 

Did Jesus take ALL the Law to the Cross? When we examine the all rules, regulations, and restrictions placed on the people prior to the Crucifixion of Christ and compare them to what Jesus said in Matthew 22:37-40, we find the answer to this question. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great Commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two Commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.

 

Jesus accomplished exactly what He came to do and that was to set people free from the bondage of the Law BUT this does not give anyone the license to sin. While the Old Testament Law consisted of hundreds of rules, regulations, and restrictions, the New Testament Commandments all hang on one word: LOVE.

 

First, Jesus commanded us to love the Lord our God with everything we are; heart, soul, and mind. If we do this, we will have no allegiance to any other gods. We will not worship anything or anyone except the Lord God Almighty. This Commandment fulfills the first three Commandments given to Moses.

 

Second, Jesus commanded us to love our neighbor as ourselves. If we keep this Commandment, we will not steal, cheat or hurt each other in any way. Nor will we covet what our neighbor has. This second Commandment fulfills the final six Commandments given to Moses.

 

The only Commandment not directly mentioned by Jesus is the fourth which reads: Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. (Exodus 20:8) Many people believe we are to continue to abide by this Commandment because Jesus did not specifically address it, but He did! Not only did He address it, but He also fulfilled it just like He did all the rest. He said, Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28)

 

Faith in Jesus Christ is our Perfect Rest. He IS our Sabbath. We find rest in Him any day at any time. We do not find rest in a certain day or in a particular building or place. Our rest is in Him and He is available to us anytime we call upon Him.

 

There is no need to argue over keeping the Sabbath Day. Our rest is not in a Day. Our rest in is Jesus. He will lift every heavy burden off your shoulders and give you rest. Yes, Jesus fulfilled all the ritualistic, ceremonial, and sacrificial Laws.

 

We can rest assured that faith in Christ will……….turn the tide

 

Resting in Him,       Doreen

 

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