Using the Law Lawfully
A lesson about how believers in Jesus should view the Law of Moses.
INTRODUCTION
USING THE LAW LAWFULLY
CONCLUSION
As you read this lesson, be sure to hover over the the Bible verses to read them or look them up in your own copy of the Bible. When the Bible passage is longer, you need to click on “more” in the bottom right corner of the pop-up window.
Introduction
Welcome! The Bible has much to say about this interesting topic. You may find it helpful to invite a mature Christian from your church to study this topic with you. You may have a lot of questions that are not answered here. Maybe there are ideas here that seem hard to understand. Do not get overwhelmed! You can contact us with any questions that you may have. The elders of your local church can help you as well.
Remember that learning the content about this topic is helpful, but knowing the information will not truly change you. For you to benefit fully from this topic, you must…
Become born-again by securing a personal relationship with God the Father and His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, through faith by grace. This information cannot change you until the Holy Spirit of God gives you a new heart that is able to apply it to your life. To begin a personal relationship with God, it is imperative to understand and believe the following:
God is separated from you, because He is good, pure, and holy. 1 John 1:5-6
You are sinful, impure, and unholy because you do not measure up to God’s holiness. Romans 3:10-12 You are a descendent of Adam and Eve who rebelled against God. Romans 5:19
Your sinfulness provokes God’s anger and separates you from Him because He is holy. Romans 5:12 As a result, you deserve to be thrown into the Lake of Fire forever. Revelation 20:14-15
God the Father sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to earth. Jesus is God in the flesh. He lived a sinless life. He was nailed to the cross, shed His blood, and died in your place for your sins. He was buried, rose again, and went to Heaven to prepare a place for all who believe. He will return one day for those who believe. 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
Only the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus is enough for you to be accepted forever by God the Father the moment you believe. John 3:16 God does not accept you on the basis that you try to be a good person and do good works. Romans 4:5 He accepts you fully and forever the moment you abandon your sins and call on Jesus to save you. John 3:36
As you understand, meditate on, and believe the information presented here about this topic, you must also do what the Bible says. James 1:21-22 Only by trusting and obeying God’s Word regarding this topic will you experience the full benefits of this information. James 1:23-24 Trusting and obeying God’s Word will change you as you learn this. 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 You will be happy as a result of your obedience. James 1:25
Seek and heed the advice of your church leaders regarding this topic. Hebrews 13:17
Depend upon the Holy Spirit to change you. Galatians 3:1-3 You cannot change without Him enabling you. John 15:5 He will change you in His time and way; but not apart from your faith and obedience to God’s Word. Trust Him to do His work in your heart. Philippians 2:12-13
Allow the joy that you experience from obeying God’s Word to transform how you interact with others. James 2:12-20
What is the Law?
The term “The Law” is used in different ways in the Scriptures.
Sometimes it refers to only the first five books of the Bible which make up the Old Covenant that God made with Israel. This is to distinguish Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy from the Prophets and Psalms. Luke 10:26-28; Luke 24:44; Luke 2:21-27; Luke 2:39; Matthew 12:5; John 1:17; Romans 3:21-26
The biblical writers use the phrase “The Law” sometimes as a general reference to the Old Testament Scriptures. Romans 3:10-20.
At other times, they use the phrase “The Scriptures” simply in reference to the Old Testament, such as: Genesis (Galatians 4:3), Exodus (Matthew 22:32), 1 Kings (Romans 11:2-3), Psalms (Matthew 21:42), Isaiah (Luke 4:17-21), or the Prophets (Luke 24:27)
“The Law” is used specifically sometimes for the Ten Commandments that were written on the stone tablets, brought down from Mount Sinai by Moses. These Ten Commandments are part of the Old Covenant that God made with Israel. Exodus 34:27-28; Deuteronomy 4:12-14; Deuteronomy 10:1-5; Malachi 4:4
Use of the term depends on the context. When the conversation is about whether or not a believer must keep The Law (of Moses), it usually refers to the Ten Commandments. 1 Timothy 1:3-11; James 2:10-11; Romans 13:8-10
For whom was The Law given?
The Law (Old Covenant) was given to the people of Israel through Moses at Mount Sinai. (Exodus 20:1-26, Exodus 24:1-18, Exodus 32:1-35, Exodus 34:1-35)
The Nation of Israel Genesis 32:24-32; Genesis 35:9-12; Genesis 46:2-4; Genesis 50:1-26 is the Jewish people Esther 2:5; Jeremiah 34:8-9; Matthew 2:2; Matthew 27:11, 29, 37, 42; Mark 15:2, 9, 12, 18, 26, 32; Luke 23:3, 37-38; John 1:19, 49; John 2:13; John 3:1, 10; John 6:4; John 8:31-33, 37, 39, 53, 56; John 12:13 who were redeemed out of slavery under the Egyptians. Genesis 15:13-14; Exodus 1:1-9; Exodus 2:23-24; Exodus 33:5-13; Deuteronomy 26:5-9 They are the circumcised Genesis 17:1-14 physical descendants Matthew 1:2; Luke 3:34 of Abram (Abraham) through Sarai (Sarah), Genesis 12:1-3; Genesis 15:1-6; Genesis 16:1-16; Genesis 17:15-27; Genesis 18:1-15, 18; Genesis 21:1-8; Romans 9:9; Acts 7:2-50 Isaac through Rebekah, Genesis 21:9-21; Genesis 24:62-67; Romans 9:7, 10 and Jacob (Israel) through Leah and Rachael. Genesis 25:19-34; Genesis 26:1-6; Genesis 27:1-46; Genesis 28:1-5, 10-15; Genesis 29:21-35; Genesis 30:1-24
The Ten Commandments, and all of the Law, as recorded from Exodus 20 through the end of Deuteronomy, were commands directly given to Israel; not the Church. Deuteronomy 9:9-11; Romans 9:1-5; Romans 3:1-2; Acts 7:51-53
For example, the Sabbath Day was a command given to Israel alone to set that nation apart as holy. Exodus 31:12-18 It was patterned after God’s rest on the seventh day. Exodus 20:8-11; Genesis 2:2-3 This law of the Sabbath was never given to the Church (which consists of Jews and Gentiles who believe that Jesus is the Messiah). Mark 2:23-28; Romans 14:1-12
Another example, the command to abstain from certain meats, was given only to Israel through the Law (see Leviticus 11). Before sin entered into the world, humans were vegetarian. Genesis 1:26-31 After the flood during Noah’s day, mankind was permitted to eat meat without blood in it. Genesis 9:1-5 The Law given to Israel restricted them from eating certain animals (see Deuteronomy 14), but not all. Deuteronomy 12:20-25; 1 Corinthians 10:18 Israel was also forbidden to eat meat with blood in it. Deuteronomy 12:15-16 God the Father and Jesus (God the Son) confirmed that all animals were clean to eat. Mark 7:17-23; Acts 10:9-16 During the early church period, Gentiles were commanded to abstain from meat that contained blood so as not to offend Jewish people to whom they were witnessing and new Jewish believers. Acts 15:19-23 Nevertheless, believers can eat any meat with blood although they should never do anything to make their brothers stumble. 1 Timothy 4:1-5; 1 Corinthians 8:1-13; Romans 14:19-23; 1 Corinthians 10:23-33
Why was the Law Given to Israel?
It was given to set them apart from the other nations Deuteronomy 26:16-19; Deuteronomy 7:1-11 to reveal sin to Israel, Romans 3:19-20; Romans 5:12-21 and to restrain Israel from sinning like the other nations. Leviticus 18:24-30; Deuteronomy 8:10-20 They awaited the appearance of the Messiah (Jesus) Galatians 3:21-25; Galatians 4:1-5; Matthew 5:17-20 Who would later fulfill the promise that God made to Abraham. Galatians 3:16, 24-28 The Law was given to Israel 430 years after God made that promise to Abraham. Galatians 3:15-18
Unfortunately, the people of Israel had a zeal for the Law of Moses that caused them to try to establish their own righteousness before God. Romans 9:30-33; Romans 10:1-3 In doing so, they rejected the righteousness of God that He provided in Christ. Romans 10:3-13, 21; Romans 11:1-12; Romans 3:9-31
The Law was not given to the people of Israel to take away their sins or for them to earn salvation from God. Galatians 3:11; Hebrews 10:1-18
Once Jesus the Messiah appeared, the Law was no longer needed, because He fulfilled the Law Matthew 5:17-20 for all who believe the Gospel. Romans 10:4; Galatians 3:19-29; Galatians 4:1-11 Jesus fulfilled the Law of Moses in the following sense:
He fulfilled the Law’s requirement of a death penalty for sin. Deuteronomy 27:26; Ezekiel 18:4; 1 Peter 3:18
He fulfilled the Law’s righteousness by being obedient to the point of death. Ezekiel 20:11; Leviticus 18:5; Philippians 2:5-10
He fulfilled the Law’s requirement of bloodshed for atonement. Leviticus 17:11; Hebrews 9:22; Hebrews 10:1-22
He fulfilled the Law’s requirement for holiness. Leviticus 11:44-45; Leviticus 19:1-2; Hebrews 7:26
Jesus crucified the Law of Moses, thus removing the charges against those who violated it. Colossians 2:13-17 He also removed what was separating Jewish people and Gentiles from being in fellowship with Him and one another. Ephesians 2:11-22
All who believe the Gospel are given the Spirit of God, Ephesians 1:13-14 identified with His death, burial, and resurrection, Romans 6:1-11 are born again, John 1:12-13 given a new righteous nature, 2 Peter 1:1-4; Jeremiah 24:7 and sanctified by the Spirit. Romans 15:16; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11; 2 Corinthians 3:17-18; 1 Corinthians 1:2; Acts 26:18, This enables them to live fruitful, righteous lives that are above condemnation. Romans 6:12-23; Romans 8:1-14
the law of Moses and The Church
Believers recognize that while Jesus never changes, Hebrews 13:8 His dealings with people do. Hebrews 1:1-2; John 1:17; Hebrews 10:9; Genesis 1:29; Genesis 9:3
Believers recognize that there are many people who misuse the Law. Philippians 3:2; 1 Timothy 1:3-4; Acts 15:1; Galatians 5:1-6
Those who teach that the church is commanded to obey the Law of Moses in order to be justified or sanctified are accursed. Galatians 1:6-10
Believers know that we are not accepted by God or kept by Him through our obedience to the Law of Moses. Galatians 2:15-21; Acts 15:1-32; Galatians 3:1-3
Obeying the Law of Moses as a means of justification before God is incompatible with the Gospel. Galatians 3:10-12 This is because we are justified by faith alone, Galatians 2:16 apart from works of the Law, Romans 3:27-28; Romans 11:5-6; Romans 10:4 just like Abraham was. Galatians 3:6-9
If we could be justified by works of the Law, then Jesus died for nothing. Galatians 2:21
We are justified by the righteousness of God in Christ which is given to us by faith. Galatians 5:5; 2 Corinthians 5:16-21
Abraham’s obedient actions Genesis 22:9-18 were in accordance with his faith in God’s promise; Genesis 15:1-6 not the Law. Romans 4:13-17 Galatians 3:13-29 Thus, his works demonstrated the faith James 2:20-24 that in itself justified him. He believed God for His promise to give him descendants as numerous as the stars. Romans 4:1-5; Genesis 15:1-6
Likewise, as believers in Jesus, our obedient actions (such as loving our brothers), 1 John 3:23-24 are in accordance with our faith in the Gospel; Ephesians 2:8-10; Titus 3:4-8 not the Law. Galatians 3:10-12 Thus, our works 1 John 2:3-6; 1 John 3:14-18 demonstrate the faith James 2:8-18; 1 John 4:19-21; 1 John 2:9-11 that already justified us when we believed the Gospel. 1 John 5:1-5; Romans 5:1-8
Believers are not under obligation to keep the Law of Moses. Romans 6:14; Romans 7:1-6; Galatians 5:18; 1 Corinthians 9:19-21
People who seek to be justified by the works of the Law are under obligation to obey all of it, Galatians 5:3 and thus, are in danger of being cursed by it Galatians 3:10-12 for disobeying it, even in one point. James 2:10
The believer does not use the Law to make himself or anyone else righteous; rather, he can use the Law to expose sin. 1 Timothy 1:3-11; Romans 3:19; Romans 7:7
Believers can use the Law to illustrate godly principles. 1 Timothy 1:8; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Timothy 2:15; Romans 15:4; 1 Corinthians 10:1-11
Here are some examples: 1 Corinthians 9:19-23; 1 Corinthians 14:34; 1 Corinthians 14:20-22; 1 Corinthians 9:3-11; 1 Timothy 2:12-15; 1 Timothy 5:17-18
Believers fulfill the Law by loving God most and by loving their neighbor as themselves. Matthew 22:36-40; Romans 13:8-10; Luke 6:31; Matthew 5:43-48; Matthew 7:12; Galatians 5:1-14 ; James 2:8-13
Jewish believers in Jesus may choose to subject themselves to the Law to better evangelize their unbelieving Jewish relatives. Acts 21:18-30; Acts 25:8; 1 Corinthians 9:19-20; 1 Corinthians 10:23-33
Gentile believers do not have this as an option. Galatians 2:3
Jewish believers in Jesus may choose to live as Gentiles Galatians 2:12, 14 (someone who wasn’t given the Law of Moses) for the sake of ministering to the Gentiles. 1 Corinthians 9:21 They may choose to live according to the freedom that they have in Christ, Galatians 4:8-12 having no obligation to the Law of Moses. Galatians 5:1
Nevertheless, Jewish believers in Jesus must not live lawlessly in regard to the Law of God (Law of Christ) 1 Corinthians 9:19, 21; Galatians 6:2 or use their freedom as an opportunity for the flesh. Galatians 5:13-14
Believers are not to allow false teachers to convince them that they have to obey the Law of Moses in order to be justified or sanctified. Galatians 2:4-5; Galatians 5:1-6; Colossians 2:6-23.
Believers are to openly correct these false teachers. Titus 1:13-16; Titus 3:9-11; Galatians 2:11-14; Titus 3:9-11; 1 Timothy 1:6-11
What is the Law of Christ?
The Law of Christ is all that Jesus commanded His disciples. Daniel 7:27; Matthew 28:18-20 Romans 2:1-11; Hebrews 5:9; 1 Peter 1:2; 1 Peter 4:17 Those commands are summarized by the Gospel Isaiah 40:1-10; Isaiah 61:1-11 of the New Covenant, Acts 5:32; Hebrews 8:6-13; James 1:21-22, 25; Isaiah 2:3; Micah 4:2 made by the blood of Jesus, Luke 22:19-20 and given to us by the Apostles. 2 Peter 3:2; Jude 1:3 There are two main commandments that guide all others. The first commandment is to believe John 3:36; Romans 6:17 that Jesus the Messiah 1 John 2:22-23 is the Son of God 1 John 4:14-15 who came in the flesh, 1 John 4:2-3 and that He was sent by the Father. 1 John 4:9-10 The second commandment is to love our brother as Christ has loved us. 1 John 3:22-23; 1 John 5:1-5
The Law of Christ is to love believers 2 John 1:5-6 and our unbelieving enemies Matthew 5:38-48; Luke 6:27-36; Mark 10:17-22 through our actions 1 John 3:16-18; James 2:14-18; 1 Corinthians 13:1-8 in the same way that Christ loved His disciples. 1 John 4:7-11; John 13:34-35; Ephesians 5:1-2; Galatians 6:2; 1 John 3:11; 1 Corinthians 9:19-22; 2 Corinthians 5:14-15
We are to love believers faithfully until the day we die. John 13:1
If we love Christ, then we will obey Him by loving fellow believers. In this way, we will experience God’s love in us. John 14:15, 21-24; John 15:9-27; 1 John 5:1-5
The Law of Christ is the Law of Love. Mark 12:28-34; Luke 10:25-29 This is part of the new nature, Romans 7:22; 2 Peter 1:3-4; 1 John 2:7-11; 1 John 3:10-18, 22-24; 1 John 4:7-21; 1 John 5:1-5; Romans 5:5 which is implanted into the hearts of believers when they become born again of the Spirit. 1 Peter 1:3, 22-23; 2 Corinthians 3:17-18
This new nature set us free from obeying the desires of our flesh. Galatians 5:24; Romans 8:1-2, 12-13; Romans 6:1-11 God teaches us to love one another by His Spirit through our new nature. 1 Thessalonians 4:9; 1 John 2:27
Living in accordance with our new nature is the only rule by which believers live. 2 Corinthians 5:16-17; Galatians 6:11-16
This royal, James 2:8 perfect, and liberating James 1:25; 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 Law of the Gospel Galatians 5:13 restrains believers from sinning Romans 13:8-10; James 1:25; John 8:31-32; Romans 8:2; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-7; 1 John 3:6, 9, and frees us from judging others James 4:11-12; Luke 6:36-45; 1 Corinthians 4:1-5; Matthew 7:1-6; as we obey the Gospel. James 1:21-25
The Law of Moses only produces death and condemnation; whereas the Law of the Spirit (which is the Law of Christ, “the Gospel”) only produces life, righteousness, freedom, and peace. 2 Corinthians 3:6-18; Romans 8:6
Believers were condemned to death with Christ on the cross under the Law of Moses. Galatians 2:19; Colossians 3:3; Romans 6:3-6; Galatians 4:4-5
Now, through His resurrection, Romans 6:7-11 we have been set free from slavery to sin Romans 6:7 and from the condemnation of the Law of Moses.
Christ destroyed the enslaving power of sin and Satan for all who believe. Hebrews 2:14-18; 1 John 3:5, 8; Colossians 2:8-15
As a result, we do not need to go back to living as slaves to sin. Galatians 2:17-18
We know that we are justified by faith apart from the works of the Law of Moses Galatians 2:16 as a gift of His grace. Romans 3:21-26 As we embrace this grace, some wrongly take it to mean that we believe we can live lawlessly. Galatians 2:17-18; Romans 3:1-8
Although believers as sinners 1 John 1:8 still sin, 1 John 1:10 we cannot live a lawless life. Galatians 2:17-21; Romans 6:1-2; 1 John 3:6-10; 1 John 5:16-17; 1 John 5:18-20
When we do sin, we have an Advocate 1 John 2:1-2 Who is faithful to forgive us and to clean us from our sins when we repent 2 Corinthians 7:9-10; Proverbs 28:13 and confess them to Him. 1 John 1:9
The desires of the flesh move us to live selfishly without regard for God. Romans 8:7-8 They are in opposition to the desires of the Spirit. As a result, they keep us from doing what we really want to do, Romans 7:21-25; Galatians 5:17 which is, to love God and others unwaveringly. Romans 7:15-20
Those who live whole-heartedly according to the flesh’s desires Romans 6:15-16; Romans 8:5-8 without regard for God Romans 6:20; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-7; 1 John 2:18-23; 1 John 3:4-10; 1 John 5:16-19; 1 John 1:5-6 or neighbors Romans 15:1-7 demonstrate that they do not have the Spirit of God. Romans 6:21; 2 Thessalonians 2:9-14; 1 John 2:26-29; 1 John 3:9-10
Thus, they will not inherit the kingdom of God. Galatians 5:19-21; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11; Ephesians 5:1-6; Colossians 3:5-6; Revelation 21:8; Revelation 22:14-15
The desires of the Spirit that He put into our hearts are: to love Galatians 5:17 and grow in sanctification. 1 Peter 2:1-3 Those desires are in opposition to the desires of the flesh.
To obey the Law of Christ is to serve one another John 13:1-17 through love Galatians 5:13 as we walk by faith Galatians 5:5-6 in the power of the Spirit.
As we obey the Spirit by loving one another, Galatians 5:16, 25-26 He produces His fruit inside our hearts. Galatians 5:22-23; John 15:1-17
There is no law that condemns obedience to His Law of Love Galatians 6:2; Galatians 5:23 which produces the fruit of the Spirit. Galatians 5:23
As the Spirit prompts us to love God and our neighbor, it confirms that we are saved Romans 6:17-19; 1 John 4:15-21; Romans 8:9-11, 14-17 and that we are not condemned under the Law of Moses. Galatians 5:18; Romans 5:13 We are accepted by grace Romans 6:12-14; John 1:17 through Christ’s act of obedience on the cross. Romans 5:16-18; Philippians 2:4-11
The Law of Christ teaches us that all we have to do is believe the Gospel 1 John 3:23-24 and obey the Spirit’s prompting to love God and others Romans 7:1-6; Galatians 5:16, 25; Galatians 6:1-10 by obeying Jesus’ commands. John 14:15, 21-24; 1 John 5:1-5
Obeying the Spirit by walking in love fulfills the righteous requirement of the Law of Moses. Romans 8:1-4; Romans 13:10; Romans 3:31; Galatians 2:21; Matthew 22:35-40
This love of God motivates us to live a holy life Galatians 2:20; Romans 6:22-23; 1 John 2:1-6, 15-17; 2 Corinthians 5:14-15; 1 Corinthians 6:11-20; 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1; 1 Peter 1:13-25; 1 Peter 2:11-12 as we seek to make disciples of others. 1 Corinthians 9:16-21; 1 Corinthians 10:31-33; 1 Corinthians 3:1-17
Christ’s act of obedience on the cross Romans 5:18 not only declared believers righteous, Romans 4:5 but also produces His righteous life in our lives Romans 5:19-22; 1 John 2:29-3:3; 1 John 2:1-6; Romans 6:22 as He lives in Colossians 1:21 and through us. Galatians 2:20 This is the Law of Christ.
For Whom Was the LAW of Moses Not Given?
The Law of Moses (including the Ten Commandments) was never given to the Gentile Nations. Deuteronomy 4:1-20; Deuteronomy 4:31-40; Deuteronomy 7:1-26; Deuteronomy 14:1-2; Deuteronomy 26:15-19; Deuteronomy 28:1-14; Romans 2:11-16; 1 Corinthians 9:19-21; 2 Corinthians 3:6-18; Ephesians 2:11-12
The Gentiles are any people who are not physical descendants of Abram (Abraham) through Sarai (Sarah), Isaac through Rebekah, and Jacob through Leah and Rachael. Matthew 10:5-6, 16-18; Matthew 20:17-19; Luke 2:31-32; John 18:33-35; Acts 4:27; Acts 9:15; Acts 10:1-2, 25-28; Acts 14:5; Acts 18:5-6 Whereas, Samaritans are half-Jewish and half-Gentile. Matthew 10:5; John 4:9
God specifically gave the Law to the physical descendants of Jacob (Israel); Exodus 19:3-6; Leviticus 27:34; Numbers 36:13; Deuteronomy 4:44-45; Deuteronomy 5:1; Deuteronomy 6:1-6; Deuteronomy 33:1-5; Nehemiah 8:1; Psalm 147:19-20 not the Gentiles. Romans 2:14; 1 Corinthians 9:20
God specifically told Aaron to teach the statutes to Israel. These statutes were those that God spoke to Moses. Leviticus 10:11; 1 Corinthians 10:18
These laws were only between God and Israel. Leviticus 26:46
The Law of Moses was not given to the Church. Ephesians 2:11-22; Ephesians 3:1-12; Hebrews 7:18-19; Romans 7:1-25; Romans 8:1-14
The Church receives, by faith, the promises that God made to Abraham. Romans 4:1-25; Galatians 3:6-9 God made those promises to Abraham Genesis 12:1-3; Genesis 15:1-27; Genesis 17:1-19; Genesis 22:1-18 before the Law was given. Galatians 3:15-18
The Church is made up of both Jews and Gentiles Galatians 3:26-29 who have been baptized by the Holy Spirit Mark 1:7-8; Acts 1:4-5 after believing Ephesians 1:13-14; Acts 10:43-48 that Jesus is the Messiah, 1 John 5:1 the Son of God. 1 John 3:23-24; Galatians 3:1-6; Galatians 3:13-14; Galatians 3:22
Before the Law of Moses (The Old Covenant) was given, God made a promise to Abraham that through his Seed (Jesus Christ) all the families (both Jews and Gentiles) of the earth would be blessed.
The blessing of that promise of inheriting eternal life as a child of God. Galatians 3:26, 29 The child of God will be with Him forever in the New Heavens and the New Earth. Revelation 21:1-7; Galatians 4:26-31
In other words, any Gentile who believes that promise, will receive the blessing of that promise as well. After the Church started, Paul explained that when a Gentile believes the Gospel, that Gentile believer receives the promise that God made to Abraham, because Jesus was the Seed that fulfilled that promise. Galatians 3:8-18
Believers receive the promises made to Abraham by faith just like Abraham received the promises of God by faith. Galatians 3:13-14; Hebrews 6:11-20; Philippians 3:1-11
Abraham received the promises of God by faith, not through circumcision. Romans 4:9-16
Believers receive the promise of eternal life by faith. John 3:16 Believers in Jesus do not receive the promise of eternal life through baptism, 1 Corinthians 1:11-18; Acts 10:22-39; Acts 10:43-48; Ephesians 1:13-14 circumcision, Galatians 6:11-16 or by keeping the Law of Moses. Romans 3:21-31
The promises made to Abraham are different from the promises made to Israel at Mount Sinai in the Law. Galatians 3:12; Galatians 4:21-31; Hebrews 12:18-29
The promises made to Israel in the Law were dependent upon Israel’s obedience to the Law. Galatians 3:10; Deuteronomy 11:20-32; Romans 2:1-29
The promises made to Abraham were not dependent upon Abraham’s obedience, rather, he simply was to receive them by faith. Romans 4:1-22 Abraham died before he received those promises so that the Church would not miss out on receiving those promises. Hebrews 11:13-16, 39-40 Now believers also receive those same promises by faith. Romans 4:23-25
The Church is not under the Old Covenant of the Law of Moses, rather, the Church is under the New Covenant.
God prophesied about the promises of the New Covenant before Jesus was born. Jeremiah 31:31-40 The New Covenant is an everlasting covenant Jeremiah 32:40 that is made with Israel. Jeremiah 31:31; Hebrews 8:8 It promised:
God will put His Law within their hearts of the Jewish people. Jeremiah 31:33; Hebrews 8:10
God will remove the hard sinful hearts of the Jewish people. Ezekiel 36:26
God will give the Jewish people a new heart that knows Him Jeremiah 24:7 and fears Him so that they will not turn away from Him. Jeremiah 32:39-40; Ezekiel 36:26
God will put His Spirit inside of the Jewish people so that they will obey His statutes and ordinances. Ezekiel 36:27; Isaiah 44:1-8
This will be an everlasting covenant. Jeremiah 32:40; Hebrews 9:15
God will be the God of the Jewish people. Jeremiah 31:33; Jeremiah 32:38; Hebrews 8:10
Israel will be His people. Jeremiah 31:33; Jeremiah 32:38; Hebrews 8:10
Israel will not have to teach one another to know personally the LORD, because all who take part in that New Covenant will personally know the LORD. Hebrews 8:11; Isaiah 59:21 They will know Him, because He will forgive their sins and never remember their sins again. Jeremiah 31:34; Hebrews 8:12
God will clean the Jewish people from their idols. Ezekiel 36:25
God will gather the Jewish people into their own land so that they will live in safety. Jeremiah 32:37, 41-44; Ezekiel 36:24, 28
The cities of the Jews will be rebuilt and the land will be like the Garden of Eden. Ezekiel 36:29-38; Jeremiah 24:6
Those promises of the New Covenant were a reiteration Ezekiel 36:22-38 and expansion Jeremiah 32:36-44 of the promises that were made to Abraham Hebrews 9:15; Genesis 15:18-21; 1 Chronicles 16:13-18; Psalm 105:8-11 before the Law of Moses was given to Israel. Galatians 3:15-18
Some promises of the New Covenant are similar to the promises of the Old Covenant (The Law of Moses) that God made with Israel. 1 Peter 2:9-10
The Church started the moment that the Holy Spirit was given at Pentecost. John 7:37-39; Acts 2:1-4; John 1:12-13; 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 This was a partial fulfilment of the New Covenant. 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14; James 1:18 The Church was washed by the Spirit of God, the moment they believed the Gospel. Ephesians 5:23-27; Ezekiel 36:25-27
Gentile believers in Jesus have been grafted into the promises of the New Covenant that God made with Israel. Romans 11:7-24 This happens by their partaking of the New Covenant made by possible by grace through faith in Jesus’ blood. Luke 22:14-20; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26; Hebrews 8:1-13; Hebrews 9:11-28; Hebrews 12:18-24
We are waiting for the Nation of Israel to repent Acts 3:19 in order for their kingdom to be restored Acts 1:1-8 and for them to inherit the land during the Millennium. Revelation 20:1-7 In the meantime, believers experience certain blessings of the New Covenant such as knowing the LORD, Galatians 4:5-9 forgiveness of sins, 1 John 1:7-2:2 and the indwelling ministry of the Holy Spirit John. 7:37-39; Ezekiel 36:25-27; Titus 3:5 The Spirit restrains us, 1 John 2:26-27;1 John 3:4-6, 8-9; 1 John 5:18 sanctifies us, 1 Corinthians 6:11; Hebrews 10:29 and bears witness with our spirit that we know the LORD. 1 John 5:6-13; John 6:44-47
After Jesus comes back, believers will experience other blessings 1 Corinthians 6:1-3 of the New Covenant and the Abrahamic covenant Genesis 17:5-6, 15-16; Genesis 35:10-11 such as reigning with Christ as kings 1 Corinthians 4:7-8; 2 Timothy 2:12 and serving as priests for a 1,000 years while Israel dwells in her land. Luke 16:16-17; Revelation 5:9-10; Revelation 20:1-6
The Law of Moses was not given to anyone who lived between the time of Adam and Moses. Romans 5:12-14; 20
Before the Law of Moses Was Given to Israel
Before the existence of Abraham and the nation of Israel, and similar to the Law of Moses, Exodus 20:8-11; Deuteronomy 5:12-15 God set an example of Sabbath Rest when He rested from all of His work of creation on the 7th day. Genesis 2:1-3 Now that Jesus has fulfilled the Law, He gives believers rest from their sin and the burden of their inability to keep the Law of Moses. Matthew 11:28-30; Acts 15:10; Galatians 5:1, 13; Galatians 6:13 He does this so that they can obey Christ’s easy commandments instead. 1 John 5:1-5 He also promises them rest in the age to come. Hebrews 4:1-16 During His ministry on earth, He clarified that mankind was not created for the purpose of obeying the Sabbath Law; rather, God gave a day of rest to Israel for their physical and spiritual benefit. Mark 2:23-28
Before the existence of Abraham and the nation of Israel, and similar to the Law of Moses, Cain made an offering from the fruit of the ground, Leviticus 2:1-16; Deuteronomy 26:1-19 and Abel made an offering Leviticus 1:2-3 from his flock. Genesis 4:1-7 Now that Christ fulfilled the Law, members of the Church offer spiritual sacrifices to God such as people who get saved as a result of us sharing the Gospel with them, Romans 15:15-16 and when we pour ourselves out like a drink offering to God by laying our lives down in service of discipling believers. Philippians 2:17
Before the existence of Abraham and the nation of Israel, and similar to the Law of Moses, Leviticus 11:1-47 there were clean and unclean animals during Noah’s day. Genesis 7:2 Now that Christ has fulfilled the Law, members of the Church offer their bodies as living sacrifices for God to use however He pleases. Romans 12:1-2
Before the existence of Abraham and the nation of Israel, and similar to the Law of Moses, Noah made animal burnt offerings of some clean animals and the Lord was satisfied with the aroma. Genesis 8:20-22 Now that Christ has fulfilled the Law, members of the Church give their money to support servants of the Lord who preach the Gospel, and this is an acceptable sacrifice to God. Philippians 4:18
Before the existence of Abraham and the nation of Israel, and similar to the Law of Moses, Leviticus 17:10-14 mankind, after the Flood, was forbidden to eat the blood of animals. Genesis 9:4 Now that Christ has fulfilled the Law, members of the Church are allowed to eat whatever animal 1 Timothy 4:1-4 because Christ has declared all food clean. Mark 7:1-23 However, believers should restrain from eating meat with blood in front of Jewish unbelievers so as not to impede their willingness to embrace the Gospel, Acts 15:19-29 and believers should restrain themselves from eating meat that was sacrificed to idols in front of new Gentile believers 1 Corinthians 8:1-3 who do not have a mature faith. Some believers in Jesus have a weak conscience about eating any meat at all and they themselves should not eat meat until they grow in their understanding. Romans 14:1-23; Romans 15:1-2 Believers in Jesus should eat meat for the purpose of glorifying God without offending Jewish unbelievers, Gentile unbelievers, and the Church of God. 1 Corinthians 10:18-33
Before the existence of Abraham and the nation of Israel, and similar to the Law of Moses, Numbers 35:9-34 murderers were to be put to the death after the Flood. Genesis 9:6 Now that Christ has fulfilled the Law, members of the Church are not only forbidden to murder, but also, they are forbidden to hate their brothers. 1 John 3:14-18
After God dispersed mankind at the Tower of Babel, Genesis 11:1-9 thus forming the nations. Genesis 10:1-5 History shows that many Gentile tribes have had priests, Genesis 41:45; Exodus 2:16 and some form of governmental laws for society. Acts 10:34-35 These laws demonstrate mankind was created in God’s image Genesis 1:27 and has a conscience Romans 1:32 that is similar to God’s Law, although it is marred by sin. Acts 17:22-31; Romans 1:18-32
During the time of Abraham and before the existence of the nation of Israel, and similar to the Law of Moses, Exodus 28:41; Hebrews 7:11-28 there was a priest for God named Melchizedek, but he was not a Levitical priest. Genesis 14:18
During the time of Abraham and before the existence of the nation of Israel, and similar to the Law of Moses concerning the Levitical priesthood of Israel, Numbers 18:20-26; Hebrews 7:1-10 Abram gave a tithe (a tenth of what he had) to the priest Melchizedek. Genesis 14:18-20 Now that Christ has fulfilled the Law, members of the Church are priests of God 1 Peter 2:9-10; Revelation 1:4-6; Revelation 5:9-10 who give to God by giving to financially poor believers 2 Corinthians 9:1-16 and to those who get their living from proclaiming the Gospel. 1 Corinthians 9:1-14; 3 John 1:5-8 Believers in Jesus give to the work of the Lord, without compulsion, 2 Corinthians 9:6 similar to when Israel gave a freewill offering in the Law. Exodus 35:29; Exodus 36:1-7; Leviticus 22:21
During the time of Abraham and before the existence of the nation of Israel, and similar to the Law of Moses, Leviticus 12:2-3 circumcision was a command for Abraham’s descendants. Genesis 17:9-14 Now that Christ has fulfilled the Law, members of the Church find no value in being circumcised. Galatians 5:1-13; Galatians 6:11-16
During the time of Abraham and before the existence of the nation of Israel, and similar to the Law of Moses, Exodus 29:18 Abraham offered a ram as a burnt offering to the LORD. Genesis 22:13-14 Now that Christ has fulfilled the Law, members of the Church offer up a sacrifice of praise from their lips to God, Hebrews 13:15 do good to believers, and share what they have with believers as a sacrifice that pleases God. Hebrews 13:16
During the time of Abraham and before the existence of the nation of Israel, Abraham kept laws of God that were not the Law of Moses. Genesis 18:17-19; Genesis 26:1-5
Before the existence of Moses, and similar to the Law of Moses, Jacob promised to give the LORD a tithe (a tenth of what he had). Genesis 28:22 However, the Bible does not disclose how he did this.
The Law of Moses was Not Given to the Church Because The Church is not The Nation of Israel
The Nation of Israel are the physical descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Matthew 1:2; Luke 3:34; Genesis 12:1-2; Genesis 15:13-14; Genesis 18:18; Genesis 32:28; Genesis 35:9-12; Genesis 46:2-4; Exodus 2:23-24 However, only those Israelites who believe the promises are regarded as Israelites before God. Romans 2:17-25; Romans 9:6, 8; Romans 11:1; Philippians 3:1-11
The members of the Church are believers in Jesus from every nation, tongue, and tribe, Revelation 5:9-10; Galatians 3:26-29; who have been born again by the Spirit of God, John 1:12-13 since the day of Pentecost. Luke 24:44-49; Acts 2:1-4; 33
The children of God are distinct from the physical descendants of Abraham. Galatians 4:28-29
God blessed the physical descendants of Abraham (The Jewish Nation of Israel).
God gave the Law of Moses to the physical descendants of Israel. Romans 9:3-4; Romans 3:1-2
God promised to adopt the physical descendants of Israel as His sons. Romans 9:4
God is the glory of the physical descendants of Israel. Romans 9:4; Exodus 40:34-35; Leviticus 9:6
God made covenants with the physical descendants of Israel. Romans 9:4; Ephesians 2:11-15; Genesis 17:1-16; Exodus 6:4-5; Exodus 34:28; Exodus 19:5; Exodus 24:7
God gave the temple service to the physical descendants of Israel. Romans 9:4
God made promises with the physical descendants of Israel. Romans 9:4
The physical descendants of Israel are the physical descendants of the patriarchs. Romans 9:5; Luke 3:23-38
Christ (The Messiah) physically descended from the physical descendants of Israel. Romans 9:5; Matthew 1:1-17
Not all of the physical descendants of Israel are spiritual descendants of the physical descendants of Israel. Romans 9:6
The spiritual descendants of Israel are descendants by faith in God’s promise. Romans 2:17-25; Romans 3:1-22
God made the promise with the descendants of Isaac, Galatians 4:28 showing that the blessing is by promise not by merely being a physical descendant of Abraham. Galatians 4:29 Even though Ishmael was a physical descendant of Abraham; the promise was not made with Ishmael. Romans 9:7 The children of the promise are children of God.
God only regards the spiritual descendants of Abraham as children of God. Galatians 4:22-23 God does not regard the physical descendants of Abraham as children of God. Romans 9:8 God made a promise to Abraham that he would bear a son through Sara; not Hagar. Romans 9:8-9 The physical descendants of Abraham through Hagar are not the children of the promise. The children of the promise are the children of God.
Jacob was not blessed simply because he was a physical descendant of Isaac. Esau was a physical descendant of Isaac, but he was not chosen to be blessed by God Romans 9:11-13; Malachi 1:1-5 because God’s purpose in election is to choose to save only those who have faith. Romans 9:11, 24; Romans 1:1-7; 1 Corinthians 1:2, 9, 21-31; 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14; 2 Timothy 1:8-9; Titus 1:1-3 Esau was not a believer. Hebrews 12:15-17 Isaac pleased God by faith Hebrews 11:6 by blessing Esau. Hebrews 11:20 This shows that the children of God are not children of God simply by being physical descendants of Abraham. Romans 9:10-13 The children of the promise are the children of God.
The children of God are those who believe in God’s promise. Romans 9:14-33
The children of God (whether Jew or Gentile) John 11:45-52; John 10:16 are not children of God based upon their will or bloodline, John 1:12-13 exertion, Romans 9:16; Titus 3:4-7; 2 Timothy 1:9-10 or obedience to the Law of Moses. Romans 9:30-33; Romans 10:1-10 By His mercy, Ephesians 2:5-7 they are born from above, John 3:1-15 from New Jerusalem Galatians 4:21-31; Revelation 3:12-13; Revelation 21:1-7, 10-27; Hebrews 12:22-24 as a free gift of His grace through faith. Ephesians 2:8-10
They are children of God because of His mercy that they received by faith. Romans 9:14-16; Titus 3:5; Ephesians 2:4-10
On the other hand, the physical descendants of Abraham (Israel) who do not believe that Jesus is the Messiah; they are hardened by God for their disbelief. Acts 19:8-10; 2 Corinthians 3:13-16 His purpose in hardening them is to display His wrath and power, like He did with the Egyptians. Romans 9:14-22 Just as God sovereignly put Pharaoh in power, Exodus 9:12-16; Romans 9:17 so that He could use Pharaoh’s harden heart Exodus 4:21-23; Exodus 7:13, 22; Exodus 8:15, 19, 32; Exodus 9:7, 12, 34-35; Exodus 10:1, 20, 27; Exodus 11:10; Exodus 14:1-31; 1 Samuel 6:6 to display His power by sending plagues in the land of Egypt in order to spread His fame Exodus 15:1-21 among the nations; Exodus 7:1-5; Exodus 11:1-10 God will use the harden hearts of Israel and the Gentiles, John 12:35-50; 2 Corinthians 4:1-6 to display His power by sending plagues Revelation 9:13-21 upon the whole earth Revelation 3:10; Revelation 6:14-17 during the Tribulation. Isaiah 29:1-16; Isaiah 59:1-19; Zephaniah 1:1-18; 2 Thessalonians 2:8-12; 2 Thessalonians 1:6-8
The plagues of the Tribulation are the wrath, power, and destruction that Paul is talking about in Romans 2:5-9; Romans 9:22 Compare the plagues of Egypt with the plagues of the Tribulation: Exodus 7:20 with Revelation 8:8; Revelation 11:6; Revelation 16:3-7 and Exodus 8:6 with Revelation 16:13 and Exodus 8:17, 19 with Revelation 11:6 and Exodus 8:21 with Revelation 6:8 and Exodus 9:1-3 with Revelation 6:8 and Exodus 9:10 with Revelation 6:2 and Exodus 9:22-24 with Revelation 8:7; Revelation 16:17-21 and Exodus 10:6 with Revelation 9:3-4 and Exodus 10:21 with Revelation 16:10-11 and Exodus 11:4-5 with Revelation 19:19-21
When the physical descendants of Israel rejected their Messiah, it brought the Gospel to the Gentiles. This brought about the existence of the Church who are vessels of mercy (made up of Jews and Gentiles who believe that Jesus is the Messiah) who were prepared beforehand for glory. Romans 9:23-26
In other words, God used the physical descendants of Israel as a lump of clay to form vessels of mercy and vessels of wrath. Romans 9:6-8, 14-24
The vessels of mercy are those who believe. Romans 9:19-24 The members of the Church are spiritual descendants of Abraham made up of both Jewish and Gentile believers. Galatians 3:26-29 These vessels of mercy (The Church, Romans 10:11-13 which includes the Remnant of Israel Romans 9:27; Romans 11:1-7) believe the Gospel, Ephesians 2:8-10 and thus, are used by God for honorable purposes for which they were prepared beforehand. Romans 9:21, 23-24 Jesus saves them from the wrath to come. Romans 2:10-11; 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-10; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-14
He also used the physical descendants of Israel as a lump of clay to form vessels of wrath Romans 9:21-22 of unbelieving Jews Acts 13:26-27, 32, 38-41, 46-48 (spiritual descendants of Satan) John 8:37-47 and unbelieving Gentiles Romans 2:5-6, 8-9, 11 who prepared themselves Romans 9:22; Romans 2:5 to be inflicted by the coming wrath Matthew 3:1-12; Luke 3:1-9 and destruction Romans 2:8-9; Ephesians 5:6; Colossians 3:6; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-3; by rejecting the Gospel; 1 Peter 2:6-8; 1 Timothy 2:13-16; John 3:36; 2 Thessalonians 2:9-11; 2 Thessalonians 1:3-11 thus, they are used by God for dishonorable purposes. Romans 9:21; Proverbs 16:4
God only planned to save individuals who would believe (the Church and the spiritual remnant of Israel). He did not plan to automatically save every physical descendant of Israel based upon their works without them believing the Gospel. Hebrews 11:6 Only those who believe will be saved. Romans 9:27-29
The Gentile believers in Jesus who did not pursue living a righteous life, Romans 4:5 reached the righteousness that God accepts by faith; Romans 3:19-31 yet, the physical descendants of Israel did not reach that righteousness because they sought it by works of the Law instead of faith. Romans 9:30-33; Romans 10:1-5; Hebrews 11:1-6
Only those who believe the Gospel are the children of God. Romans 10:6-14
The physical descendants of Israel physically heard the Gospel Message through the Word of God; but they did not hear it with faith. Hebrews 3:15-19; 4:1-2 However, the Gentiles who hadn’t heard it before, they gladly received it by faith upon hearing the Message, Acts 13:26-49 even though these believing Gentiles were not looking for it. Isaiah 65:1-9; Romans 10:15-21
Although God will reject every physical descendant of Israel who rejects the Gospel, He has not, however, rejected every physical descendant of Israel. He has sovereignly chosen to graciously save every physical descendant of Israel that believes the Gospel. Romans 11:1-6 They are the remnant of Israel.
However, every physical descendant of Israel who rejects the Gospel, will be hardened by God even further. Romans 11:7-10
The rejection of the Gospel by the physical descendants of Israel caused God to reject them. That rejection has brought about the opportunity for Gentiles to believe in Jesus and be saved so as to provoke the Nation of Israel to jealousy. Romans 11:11 The hardening of Israel is only a partial hardening, Romans 11:25 due to the unbelief of the majority of Israelites. Romans 11:20 It is called a partial hardening, because some individual Israelites are believing the Gospel right now. Also, it is only a temporary hardening until every chosen Gentile is saved. Romans 11:25; Acts 13:48; Acts 18:6-10; Acts 15:14
However, when God does bring the Nation of Israel to repentance at the end of the Tribulation, Zechariah 12:8-14; Revelation 1:7 it will result in all of the promises being fulfilled (the promises that God made for the Jewish people). Romans 11:12-15
Just as the unbelief of the physical descendants of Israel caused them to be cut off from God and salvation to come to the Gentiles, Acts 28:20-28 if the physical descendants of Israel repent and believe, they too can be grafted into receiving the blessing of the promise of Abraham. Romans 11:16-24 The physical descendants of Israel are partially hardened until God saves all of the Gentiles that will believe before the rapture. Romans 11:25-27
God will bring the physical Nation of Israel to repentance and faith in the Gospel, because His gifts, and His calling for them to be His people, are irrevocable. Romans 11:28-36
God has sovereignly chosen to give mercy to all who believe the Gospel. Romans 9:11, 15-16; Titus 3:5; John 1:12-13 He also has sovereignly chosen to reject and harden all those who reject the Gospel. Romans 2:5-6, 8-9, 11; Romans 9:17-18; Romans 11:1-7; Acts 13:40-41; John 12:37-40 God is not unjust Romans 9:19-21 in rejecting the Nation of Israel 1 Peter 2:4-8 for rejecting their Messiah; John 1:11; John 8:24 because they were seeking to be justified in His sight by works of the Law. Galatians 3:10 Nor is He unjust for rejecting Israel for their unbelief, while He is simultaneously accepting Gentiles through their belief in the Gospel even though these believing Gentiles did not seek God, Romans 3:11 nor did they pursue the righteousness of the Law. Romans 9:25-33; John 9:39-41
The Israelites/Jews (physical descendants of Israel), who believe in the promise of God, are the spiritual descendants of Abraham. Thus, they are the Israel of God whom are adopted as His sons. Galatians 6:16
The Israelites/Jews (physical descendants of Abraham) who truly believe the Gospel John 8:30 (and do not simply say that they believe John 8:31, 45, 47) are the ones who are considered to be Abraham’s spiritual descendants. John 8:39 They are the children of God. John 1:11-13; John 8:31, 42 Their identity is demonstrated by their actions; John 8:36, 39, 42; Matthew 7:13-20 not merely their profession of faith. Matthew 7:21-29 They obey God Luke 3:7-18; John 10:27-30 rather than simply hypocritically judging the Gentiles. Romans 2:1-2, 17-24 They are not children of God, nor are they spiritual children of Abraham simply because they are physical descendants of Abraham. John 8:39-47
The Israelites/Jews (physical descendants of Abraham) who reject the Gospel, John 8:37, 43 are not spiritual children of Abraham; John 8:39-40; Romans 2:25; John 10:24-42 they are only physical descendants of Abraham. John 8:37, 56-69 Their actions demonstrate that God is not their Father; John 8:41-43, 47-55; Isaiah 57:1-4 rather, the devil is their father. John 8:38, 44 The Jews who reject the Gospel John 10:24-26 are slaves to sin who need to be born again and thus, they are yet to be set free by the Son. John 8:31-36
When a Gentile believes the Gospel and obeys God, Romans 2:26 that Gentile demonstrates that he is a spiritual descendant of Abraham. Romans 2:14-16; Jeremiah 31:1 Whereas, unbelieving Israelites/Jews (physical descendants of Abraham) hypocritically judge Romans 2:1-5 unbelieving Gentiles for how they live lawlessly. Romans 1:18-32 Yet, these Israelites reject the Gospel and do not obey God even though they know the Law Romans 2:17-22 and were given the Law. Romans 3:1-2 The unbelieving Jews are not any better than the unbelieving Gentiles. Romans 3:3-20 Their hypocritical disobedience Romans 2:23 causes God’s Name to be blasphemed among the Gentiles. Romans 2:24 These unbelieving Israelites demonstrate that they are not spiritual descendants of Abraham Romans 2:25 and they are storing up wrath for themselves Romans 2:5-12 because of their disobedience. Romans 2:13 However, the believing Gentile (who is a spiritual child of Abraham) obeys God, Romans 2:13-14 demonstrating that his heart has been circumcised; Romans 2:26, 28; Colossians 2:11-14 thus, condemning the unbelieving Jew for his hypocrisy. Romans 2:27
The Church and the Nation of Israel are distinct. Revelation 21:10-14
A child of God can be an Israelite or a Gentile who has faith. John 1:10-13 However, since Pentecost, the child of God is not identified as being Jewish or Gentile; rather, that child of God is identified as being part of the body of Christ, the Church. Galatians 3:28; Ephesians 5:23
A child of the devil can be an Israelite John 8:37-47 or a Gentile who has not been born again. 1 John 3:10
However, a Gentile cannot be an Israelite even if he has faith. John 10:16; Acts 15:13-21; Galatians 2:1-14; Galatians 3:28 Nor can an Israelite be a Gentile. Galatians 2:14; Galatians 6:15-16
Once an Israelite believes the Gospel, that Israelite is recognized by God as being part of the spiritual remnant of Israel. Romans 9:6-8; Romans 11:1-7
Also, once that Israelite believes the Gospel, that Israelite becomes a member of the Church. Galatians 3:26-29; Galatians 1:13
The Church is not Spiritual Israel and the Church has not replaced Israel. Romans 11:1-7, 11-15 Concerning the Nation of Israel, only the unbelieving Israelites have been cutoff from God until they believe. Romans 11:16-23 The believing Israelites have not been cutoff.
The Church is distinct from unbelieving Jews and unbelieving Gentiles. 1 Corinthians 10:31-32
The children of God are the spiritual descendants of Abraham, (whether Jew or Gentile), who believe in God’s promised Messiah. Galatians 3:26-29; Galatians 2:4; Acts 15:1, 5 Abraham is the spiritual father of all the children of God who existed after him. Romans 4:1-17 He is the spiritual father of…
…Jewish and Gentile believers who lived before the Law was given. Hebrews 11:1-19 They are children of God, but they are not part of the Church which started at Pentecost.
…Jewish and Gentile believers who lived after Israel became a nation. Hebrews 11:20-27 They are children of God, but they are not part of the Church which started at Pentecost.
…Jewish and Gentile believers who lived after the Law was given. Hebrews 11:28-40 They are children of God, but they are not part of the Church which started at Pentecost.
…Jewish and Gentile believers in Jesus who lived after the Church was started at Pentecost. Romans 4:9-16; Ephesians 1:13-14 They are children of God who are part of the Church.
Also, there were children of God (who were neither Jewish, nor Gentiles) who believed God’s promises before God made a promise to Abraham. Hebrews 11:1-7, 39-40 They are children of God, but they are not part of the Church which started at Pentecost.
Also, there will be other Jewish and Gentile children of God who are distinct from the Church. Revelation 7:1-12 They will believe in Jesus after the rapture of the Church, 1 Thessalonians 5:9-10; Revelation 3:10 during the Tribulation on earth, Revelation 7:13-17 while the Church is with Christ in Heaven. John 14:1-3 They are children of God, but they are not part of the Church which started at Pentecost.
Since the Church is not Israel, nor has it replaced Israel; the Law of Moses was not given to the Church. Galatians 3:9-12
Conclusion
Now that you have studied this topic, we encourage you to...
Ask us or any of your church leaders about any questions or concerns you still have about this topic.
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Do your best to practice what you have learned.
Tell someone else about what you have studied.
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Teach this subject to others.
Consider reviewing this topic once each year.
Commit to growing in this area together with other members of a local church.
Trust the Holy Spirit to change you as He uses His Word, others, and circumstances to make you more like Christ.