The Gospel is . . . Good works

Have you ever heard of the "law of Christ".  Paul mentions it in his final chapter to the Galatians.  I wonder what he meant by the phrase?  Was he referring to the Golden Rule (Matthew 7:12)?  Or perhaps, Paul was thinking of the Great Commandment (Matthew 22:37-39)?  What do you think Paul meant when he used the phrase "law of Christ"?

Here's what I think.  Paul has been battling opponents who are relying on law observance and teaching the Galatians to do the same.  God's law is good, but Paul is certain that the Law cannot produce life.  Only the gospel of Christ at work in a human heart can produce life.  The context of Paul's statement is "caring for one another."  The "law of Christ" appears to hinge upon you and me "looking out for others."  So it probably is connected to "loving your neighbor as yourself."

Only the Spirit of Christ at work in His church can produce the desire and determination in us to "look out for others".  It's amazing that caring for others is so essential to the Christian faith.  Maybe we short-circuit our faith when we assume it is only a relationship between me and God.

In reality, God wants you and me to form a relationship with him that radically impacts how we treat one another.  Only then can we live as Christians.  God will help us if we will let him.  See you Sunday as we explore the Gospel and good works.  Tom