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"Love is the fulfillment of the law"

Text: Romans 13:10

A QUICK REVIEW: THE LAW OF GOD

It would be good if we do a quick review of what Paul had written earlier concerning the law of God. Four things may be highlighted:-

1. The believer is not under the law but under grace. Romans 6:15

2. He has been delivered from the law. Romans 7:6

3. In essence the law is holy, just and good. Romans 7:12

4. The law is also spiritual. Romans 7:14

NO REJECTION OF THE LAW

Paul at no time rejected the commandments of God. However, he insisted that the law cannot bring about justification or eternal life (Cf. Galatians 2:16). Though the law cannot give salvation, it is nevertheless to be loved and honoured! Every believer ought to make every attempt to fulfill the law (but not in hope of salvation).

“Love does no harm to a neighbour;
therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.”
Romans 13:10

1. Two purposes of the commandments of God highlighted:-

a) To ensure that no untoward evil is perpetrated against a neighbour.

b) To encourage the practice of godly, brotherly love.

2.Vital reiteration

a) Christian love will not permit us to harm our neighbours.

b) Christian love is in fact the fulfillment of the law.

i) A believer must endeavour to love his neighbour at all times.

ii) He must appreciate that when Christian love is practised, the law of God is fulfilled.

iii) It is not enough to speak about Christian love- it must be demonstrated in real life!

iv) Obedience or compliance to God’s laws is the highest way in which the believer can express genuine love (specially for the poor).