How does the Bible describe God's law?

His commandments show us how to love and are not burdensome (1 John 5:3). Paul said that love is the fulfillment of the law (Romans 13:9-10). Christ summarized the whole law as love for God and man (Matthew 22:37-40). Christ also said those seeking eternal life should keep the commandments (Matthew 19:17-19). James called it a royal law and a law of liberty (James 2:8, 12). David loved and meditated on God's law—it gave him wisdom and understanding—it was sweet to him (Psalm 119). Paul called it holy, just and good and spiritual (Romans 7:12, 14). The heart of the New Covenant is that God's laws will be written on our hearts and minds (Hebrews 10:16).

What happens when we disobey the law?

The Bible calls this sin (1 John 3:4). As obedience brings blessings, disobedience naturally brings curses (Deuteronomy 28). "All unhappiness, misery, anguish and woe have come from transgressing God's law" (Fundamental Beliefs, page 12). Sin leads to death and, sadly, we have all sinned (Romans 6:23; 3:23). God hates sin so much that He made the penalty death. But He loves us so much He let His Son pay that awesome penalty for us (John 3:16).

What about grace?

Yes, we do believe in and deeply appreciate God's grace, which we will consider next month in a study of our fundamental belief on "The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ." Law and grace are both wonderful gifts of God. Law shows us the wretchedness of our putrid evil sins and points us to repentance and forgiveness through God's grace. Grace leads us to utter appreciation for our holy and merciful God and to a deepening desire to be like Him. How? By doing what He says—obeying His law of love in its full spirit and intent.

For More Information: Fundamental Beliefs of the United Church of God, "Sin and God's Law"; The Ten Commandments.