Two Absolutes

There are two absolutes in the Christian life: law and grace. Jesus came and fulfilled the law, and then made it possible for us to live by grace. The only problem is that grace requires more of us than the law did. So how are we, who could never keep the law, now to be capable of living by grace, when the standard of grace is so much higher than the law?

Jesus, in Matthew 5, referred to the law, and reminded us that we were commanded not to murder. Then...He tells us that if we call our brother a name, we've committed murder in our heart. He reminds us that the law says we are not to commit adultery. Now He says that if we lust in our heart, we have committed adultery with her in our heart.

He upped the standard. He raised the bar so high none of us could get over it. He gives us commands for a life that is impossible...unless we develop a relationship with Him. Seems that's what He is after in the first place. That relationship allows the Holy Spirit to abide within us, directing, motivating, leading and guiding us...and making it possible for us to accomplish the impossible.

Now that is good news. Here is how Paul says it in Galatians 2:19-21 (from the Message Bible):

"What actually took place is this: I tried keeping rules and working my head off to please God, and it didn't work. So I quit being a "law man" so that I could be "God's man."

"Christ's life showed me how, and enabled me to do it. I identified myself completely with Him. Indeed, I have been crucified with Christ. My ego is no longer central. It is no longer important that I appear righteous before you or have your good opinion, and I am no longer driven to impress God. Christ lives in me. The life you see me living is not "mine," but it is lived by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.

"I am not going back on that!"

Wow...what a way to go. Count me in!