In today’s Christian teachings, much emphasis is placed on grace, faith, and prosperity, but one essential biblical principle often overlooked is the Law of Christ. Many believers may have heard the term in passing but lack a deeper understanding of what it truly means and how it applies to their lives. Unlike the Mosaic Law, which governed Israel, the Law of Christ is the divine principle by which Christians are to live under the new covenant. It is a law not of rituals and sacrifices but of love, selflessness, and service.
As a believer who has journeyed through the Scriptures, I have come to realize that the Law of Christ is rarely taught with clarity in many modern churches. This article aims to bring back this fundamental teaching and help Christians understand its significance in their walk with God.
What is the Law of Christ?
The phrase “Law of Christ” appears explicitly in Galatians 6:2, where Paul writes:
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2, NIV)
The Law of Christ is the ultimate command given by Jesus, which is summed up in love—love for God and love for one another. Jesus Himself established this law in John 13:34-35:
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
The apostle Paul reiterates this in Romans 13:8-10, teaching that love fulfills the law:
“Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law… Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.”
The Difference Between the Law of Christ and the Law of Moses
One of the biggest confusions among believers is the distinction between the Law of Moses and the Law of Christ. Many Christians still feel bound to parts of the Old Testament law, while others completely disregard any form of law under grace. Understanding these differences is crucial:
- The Law of Moses was a covenant given specifically to Israel, including moral, ceremonial, and civil laws. It required strict adherence and included sacrifices for atonement.
- The Law of Christ is not about rituals but about grace and love. It does not abolish moral principles but fulfills them in Christ.
- The Mosaic Law was temporary, pointing to Christ (Galatians 3:24-25), while the Law of Christ is eternal, based on love and the Spirit-led life.
Why is the Law of Christ Often Overlooked in Modern Churches?
- Misinterpretation of Grace – Some churches overemphasize grace to the point where they dismiss any form of “law,” thinking it contradicts salvation by faith.
- Focus on Prosperity and Success – Many teachings today prioritize material blessings over Christian virtues such as love, humility, and service.
- Lack of Sound Biblical Teaching – Many believers are not taught to study the Scriptures deeply but rely on surface-level teachings that do not emphasize discipleship.
- Legalism vs. Freedom Debate – Some fear that emphasizing any “law” will lead to legalism, while others believe that freedom in Christ means total disregard for any moral obligation.
The Application of the Law of Christ in Our Daily Lives
As Christians, we are called to live by the Law of Christ in practical ways. Here’s how:
1. Loving One Another
The core of Christ’s law is love. This is not just a feeling but a deliberate act of service, kindness, and forgiveness.
- Forgiving others even when they hurt us (Colossians 3:13)
- Showing kindness to strangers and the needy (Luke 10:25-37)
- Praying for and blessing those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44)
2. Bearing Each Other’s Burdens
Christianity is not a solo journey. We are to support each other in times of need:
- Encouraging those struggling in their faith (Hebrews 10:24-25)
- Providing for those in financial distress (Acts 2:44-45)
- Standing with others in prayer and intercession (James 5:16)
3. Living a Life of Humility and Servanthood
Jesus exemplified servanthood by washing His disciples’ feet (John 13:12-17). Following Christ means humbling ourselves to serve others rather than seeking personal gain.
4. Obeying the Holy Spirit
Unlike the Law of Moses, which was written on stone tablets, the Law of Christ is written on our hearts by the Holy Spirit (Jeremiah 31:33, Romans 8:2). This means:
- Allowing the Holy Spirit to guide our decisions.
- Walking in love, patience, and self-control.
- Submitting our lives to God’s will rather than following selfish desires.
The Law of Christ and the Great Commission
Obeying the Law of Christ also means making disciples. Jesus’ final command in Matthew 28:19-20 was to spread the Gospel and teach others to observe His commandments. True discipleship involves:
- Teaching others about the love and grace of Christ.
- Leading by example through our actions.
- Encouraging new believers to grow in faith.
A Call to Return to the Law of Christ
The Law of Christ is not a set of religious rules but a divine principle of love and service. As believers, we must shift our focus from self-centered Christianity to a Christ-centered life, embracing the call to love, serve, and bear one another’s burdens.
Modern churches must rediscover and teach this fundamental truth. It is time for us, as the body of Christ, to move beyond just receiving blessings and step into the responsibility of living out Christ’s law in our everyday lives.
Let us be intentional in loving God and loving people, for in doing so, we fulfill the Law of Christ. Amen.
