“But that no man is justified by the law in the
sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.”
Galatians 3:11
Paul was specifically speaking of those who were following the
Mosaic Law after the coming of Jesus Christ. No man is justified by
the law, but rather, justified by faith in Christ and the merits of
His shed blood.
The Pharisees, and even some Jews still today, base their
righteousness upon keeping the letter of the law. The law never
brought mankind redemption, but rather it exposed the sinfulness of
man.
The law mentality was one of works and outward demonstration. But in
this dispensation of the gospel, God is looking for a relationship
with man that is motivated and based on faith. God’s approval is no
longer found in following the fleshly letter of the law, but in the
righteousness and work of holiness that He does in our heart.
While many have light and understanding that we are not any longer
under the old covenant, the Mosaic law, many have created a new law
in which to try and find acceptance with God. There are holy
principles of attitude and conduct that a saint of God must observe
as God is a holy and pure God – and so must His children be. But if
we are not careful, Godly principles that are taught and practiced
in a congregation can become a law to themselves. People can then
think that as long as they measure to the outward standards of
holiness that they are acceptable to God.
Remember that, even today, no man is justified by the law in the
sight of God. The carnal, unregenerated man can live to many of the
outward holy standards that the saints live by. Let us never
compromise or lay down the gospel standards that help protect us
from the defilement of the world. But let us ever keep in our hearts
and minds the knowledge that the outward works of the flesh, good
though they be, never justify a man. Our experience should be one
that goes far deeper than the outward things of dress, praise, and
other God-given observances. Peace and acceptance with God is found
in the justifying work of Jesus in our hearts. When we are motivated
and moved to follow God in true holiness, it is the relationship of
faith and love that brings the approval of God. The result then is
heart purity as well as the outward manifestations of a holy life.
