The Objection
Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin. Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. (Romans 3:20, 28)
and
We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles, know that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. (Galatians 2:15-16)
For those in Christ, the deeds of the Law have no value!
The Response
This objection is both right and wrong. Here's why:
The Romans and Galatians passages above deal with justification, so let's define what the Bible means by "justification".
The New American Standard Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible says justification is "a sentence of acquittal." It is a legal term that says someone has been found "not guilty" in a court of law. We are never found "not guilty" before G-d as a consequence of performing the commandments in G-d's Law. Scripture says all have sinned (Romans 3:23), so we are all guilty. We are only found "not guilty" because our sinless Messiah is "not guilty" and because of our position under Him.
So, in that way, the objection is correct. But those who promote this objection try to take it one step further by saying, "The deeds of the Law have no value." And in this way, the objection is wrong.
Just because the deeds of the Law can do nothing to justify us before G-d, that doesn't mean they have no value. That's like saying, "Because I cannot eat a shoe, it has no value." You aren't supposed to eat a shoe! That's not what shoes are for! The value of a shoe is determined by its usefulness in achieving its true purpose: covering and protecting your feet.
So, what is the purpose of the Law if G-d did not give it for our justification (getting a "not guilty" verdict)?
The Law of G-d provides a pattern of living for those whom He has chosen. Living according to the way He has established reveals G-d's character and His glory. Therefore, when followed correctly, the Law is very valuable in achieving its intended purpose.
Scripture says...
Objection overruled.
If you still have questions, check out our definitions and assumptions page. If you still have questions or concerns after reading that, please contact us. We would love the opportunity to understand and respond to those concerns!
