Bible Basics

The Law of Liberty

James writes, “But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does” (James 1:25). Many believe that law and liberty are contradictory; that law binds and constricts rather than producing freedom. But the fact is, there can be true liberty only when there is law. It is law that defines and protects our freedom in this country. So it is in God’s kingdom. As discussed earlier, God’s law does not nullify His grace. Furthermore, to insist upon adherence to God’s law as a condition to salvation in no way makes God’s plan of salvation a system of works. Listen carefully! We are saved upon the merits of Christ’s blood that was shed on our behalf, not by any meritorious works we may do. Nevertheless, we appropriate the cleansing agency of His blood only as we comply with the conditions of salvation set forth by the Lord Himself. It is through God’s complete (“perfect”) law that we find freedom from sin (“liberty”). Only as we are “doers” and not just “hearers” do we find the blessing of salvation, for Christ becomes “the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him” (Heb. 5:9). But remember, our faith is not in what we do, but in what Christ has done for us, for He died that we might live.

                                                                                                               -- Clark Dugger

Bible Basics