2 minute read.
Daily Reading: Ezekiel 12:1-14:11 ESV, Hebrews 7:1-17 ESV, Psalm 105:37-45 ESV, Proverbs 27:3 ESV
Daily Verse: “For when there is a change in the priesthood, there is necessarily a change in the law as well.” (Hebrews 7:12 ESV)
NOMOS (3551): “In the NT is used of “law” in general. In the Epistle to the Hebrews the “Law” is treated of especially in regard to the contrast between the Priesthood of Christ and that established under the “law” of Moses, and in regard to access to God and to worship. In these respects the “Law” “made nothing perfect,” 7:19. There was “a disannulling of a foregoing commandment…and a bringing in of a better hope.” This is established under the “new Covenant,” a covenant instituted on the bases of “better promises.” 8:6.”[1]
Better promises.
Because Christ died and rose again, the law changed. Before Jesus’ death, life revolved around the Mosaic laws instituted by Moses long ago, the most famous the Ten Commandments. We needed help because no one could keep even the primary ten. God answered with Jesus.
The Lord understands our human frailty. No matter how hard we try, we fail to keep perfect commandments. Lies pop up easier than dandelions. Think about the last time you told someone, “I’m fine,” because you didn’t want to tell them the truth about your life. We couldn’t keep the law, so God sent His Son, who could.
Fulfilled law.
Jesus’ life and death fulfilled the requirements of the law for us. Instead of hundreds of commandments, Christ narrowed it down to two: love God, and love others. All efforts to fulfill the Great Commandment draw you into a closer relationship with God. Through Jesus, you can love others unconditionally as He loves you.
The Ten Commandments help you fulfill the great one. If you read the list, the first half tells you how to love God, and the second half tells you how to love others. We still strive to maintain the law, but it no longer defines our eternal rewards. Instead, following God’s law helps us develop healthy, life-giving relationships.
Jesus came, and the law changed; Christ gave us a new purpose with four words. Each day we can love God and others better than the previous day. If you fail one day, try again the next, knowing God blesses your efforts.
Fulfill the law, love God, love others, and enjoy life to the fullest!
[1] Strong, J., & Strong, J. (2010). The New Strong’s expanded exhaustive concordance of the Bible. Greek Dictionary of the New Testament (pp. 172-3) Thomas Nelson
