Both the Epistle from Galatians 3:16-22 and the Gospel from Luke 10:23-37 discuss the divine Law, and both point out some of its purposes and the problems of fulfillment. So let us spend some time considering the Law and its purposes. Before looking at these issues, we begin with a warning based on Scripture. The Law is good and useful, but the Law cannot save us; only God's grace can save us.
Basically, the divine Law has three purposes. First, the Law shows us God's holy expectations in order to restrain outward sin. Secondly, the Law points out our sins in order to lead us to repentance and faith. Thirdly, the Law functions as a helpful guide to those with Christian faith.
1. The first purpose has sometimes been called Civil Use. The general purpose of the Law among all human beings is the restraint of evil. Human societies and individuals have some sense of right and wrong. In diverse cultures and religions, people see that certain actions such as theft and murder are wrong. Even when groups or individuals excuse their own bad behavior, most human beings acknowledge some provisions of the Law. Wherever higher philosophies or monotheism have been influential, people recognize more of the Law. As many Scriptures indicate, the divine Law is implanted in the natural law of creation. In Romans 1:19-20, we read. "Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse." The Law, in and of itself, cannot change human hearts. It can, however, help to protect the law-abiding from the unjust. The Law promotes a limited measure of justice on this earth until the last judgment is realized.
2. The second purpose of the Law can be called the Pedagogical Use. This purpose of the Law works somewhat like a mirror. On the one hand, the Law of God reflects and mirrors the perfect righteousness of God. The Law tells us much about who God is, how He acts, and what He expects. On the other hand, the Law shows human sinfulness. This use of the Law is emphasized in Galatians 3. The Law highlights our weakness as fallen beings so that we might seek the grace, forgiveness, and strength found in Christ. It can be said that the law acts as a severe schoolmaster who drives us to Christ. The Law points us toward the Christian faith.
3. The third purpose of the Law might be called the Normative Use. This purpose of the Law is to remind believers what is pleasing to God. As adopted children of God, the Law provides external guidance as we seek to do the will of our heavenly Father. Jesus said, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15). We see this deeper moral and spiritual purpose of the Law in Luke 10 where the Good Samaritan shows mercy to a "neighbor." This spiritual and moral guidance might be considered the highest function of the Law among those who have faith in Christ. It helps the people of God to give Him honor and glory in all areas of life.
In conclusion, Christians still owe obedience to the spiritual and moral Law that God reveals in Scripture. We have been freed from the curse of God’s Law. We know that our obedience to the Law cannot save us, but we still have a duty to obey it. Through divine grace, we are given new opportunities to understand and keep the commandments as expressions of love for God and neighbor.
