When it comes to understanding the Bible, Romans 3:31 offers an important perspective on the relationship between faith and the law. Many people wonder, “If we are saved by faith, does the law no longer matter?” The Apostle Paul answers this question directly in Romans 3:31:
“Do we then make void the law through faith? Certainly not! On the contrary, we establish the law.”
Let’s break down this verse and explore how faith not only upholds but also strengthens the law, bringing a fresh sense of purpose to our lives.
Faith Doesn’t Cancel the Law, It Completes It
Some may think that living by faith means we no longer need to worry about the law. But Paul is clear: faith doesn’t replace or cancel the law. Instead, it fulfills its purpose. The law shows us what is right and wrong. More importantly, it shows us our need for God. No matter how hard we try, we can never keep the law perfectly.
Faith in Jesus, however, provides a way to live in alignment with God’s will. Jesus Himself said He didn’t come to destroy the law but to fulfill it (Matthew 5:17). His life and sacrifice accomplished what the law alone could not, bringing salvation to all who believe.
How Faith Strengthens the Law
The real power of faith is that it helps us live according to the heart of the law, which is love. Jesus taught that the greatest commandments are to love God and love your neighbor (Matthew 22:37-40). When we live by faith, the Holy Spirit helps us live out this love, which in turn, fulfills the law’s true intent.
In Romans 8:3-4, Paul explains that the law couldn’t make us righteous on its own because we are weak. But through faith, we receive the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to live in a way that pleases God. This doesn’t mean following a set of strict rules, it means letting God’s love guide us in everything we do.
Faith and Obedience Go Hand in Hand
Faith in Jesus transforms our hearts. Instead of seeing the law as a burden or a set of impossible rules, we begin to see it as a path to living a life that honors God. Faith is not an excuse to ignore God’s commands; it’s the motivation to keep them.
The key is this: faith produces genuine obedience. When we trust in Jesus, we are more likely to follow the law, not out of fear, but out of love. Romans 8:4 teaches us that the righteousness of the law is fulfilled in us when we walk according to the Spirit.
How Does This Apply to Everyday Life?
Living by faith means letting God’s love shape our thoughts and actions. Here are two ways to put this into practice:
- Let Love Be Your Guide:
When making decisions or interacting with others, think about how love can guide your actions. Remember, love is the fulfillment of the law, and living in love honors God’s will. - Trust God for Strength:
Don’t rely solely on your ability to follow rules. Instead, trust in God to help you live according to His law. Pray for strength to act in ways that reflect His love and grace.
Final Thoughts
Romans 3:31 reminds us that faith and the law work together. Faith does not erase the importance of the law; rather, it helps us live in harmony with it. Through faith in Christ, we can fulfill the true purpose of the law, which is to love God and others wholeheartedly.
By embracing faith, we not only honor God’s commandments but also experience the transformative power of His love in our lives. In this way, faith doesn’t make the law void, it makes it stronger.
This blog post aims to encourage readers to see how faith and obedience to God’s law go hand in hand. By trusting in Jesus, we not only uphold the law but also find the strength to live according to its true purpose, love.
A Simple Prayer for Guidance
Dear Lord,
Thank You for Your law, which shows us Your perfect will. Help us to live by faith and walk in love, fulfilling the true purpose of the law. Strengthen us by Your Spirit, so we can honor You in everything we do. May our faith not only guide us but also strengthen the law You have given us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
