Theology Thought: Law and Gospel

God’s Word contains two basic teachings which are opposites and work together to create and build up our faith in Christ: The Law & the Gospel.

The Law is from God; therefore it is good. It tells us what we must do, threatens, demands, accuses us of our sin, demands perfect righteousness, is kept by works and is summarized in the Ten Commandments.

The Gospel is also from God and it is good news. It tells us what God has done for us, always forgives, promises, gives gifts, freely gives the righteousness of God, is received by faith, and is summarized in the Apostles’ Creed.

When Law and Gospel are clearly defined, it leads to a right understanding of God’s Word. When Law and Gospel are muddied and confused, so is our understanding of our salvation in Christ.