It would be wrong of us to assume that there is contradiction or competition between the Law of God and the Gospel. Both are the Word of God and are to be received in faith. The difference is the work that they accomplish in us. The Law teaches us what a holy life looks like, the life that must be lived if we would be pleasing to God. But in showing us that, the Law exposes the fact that we don’t live such a life, and we stand under the righteous judgment of God. The Law leaves us without hope because there is nothing we are able to do to save ourselves from sin. The Gospel is the good news that God Himself has provided the answer. He sent forth His Son, Jesus Christ, King David’s Son (human nature) and King David’s Lord (His divine nature) to bear the judgment we deserve on the cross. We need to hear both of these words from God if we would be saved. Without the Law we would know our need for salvation. Without the Gospel, we wouldn’t know that God has provided it. And in His great mercy God continues to preach both these Words to us. I look forward to seeing all of you this coming Lord’s Day.
Pastor Ulmer