The Law!

The Law!

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death. Romans 8:1-2 NIV

There is always a law at work in our lives at all times. Today's extract makes that abundantly clear. Both las have their basis, their levels of operations and their definite end. A fundamental decision will have to be made on which law is at work in you today and which one should continue to operate. If I must end well, I must submit to the law that will aid that final determination.

When man was created, God desired fellowship and intimacy. No wonder God would come every day, in the cool of the day, to speak with Adam. There was fellowship and communion and relationship. Then, man fell.  Unfortunately, before the fall of man, the law had not been given, therefore there was no consciousness of sin. With the fall came the guilt, condemnation and punishment that usually follow sin. We became cursed due to sin, and we became subject to the natural consequences of sin, which is death. That is the basis of the law of sin and death.

It took Christ dying on the cross for another law to be established. His death opened the doorway for a fresh start and his life sealed a new covenant and a new life. Because death, the natural and eternal  consequence of sin had been defeated at the cross, a new law had to come into play. Because a perfect sacrifice was offered, the power of sin over us has been completely broken. One major difference though -  it is not automatic. The law of sin and death bound everyone born of woman, and whoever remained under its control could not enjoy the benefits Christ offers. However, when a man comes into Christ, just as today's extract says, the condemnation, guilt and shame sin brings is defeated.

Note that it does not say being around Christ, or hearing and reading about him, or knowing about him; it is a permanent residence in him. In Christ is the power to live above sin, and in the true liberty only a relationship with God can guarantee. His time of favour is here.