Third Use of the Law
Guide for Believers
Law and Gospel · 6 verses
For the regenerate, the law serves as a trustworthy guide for holy living, directing the believer into paths of righteousness and conformity to the divine will. No longer a covenant of works demanding perfect obedience for justification, the law becomes a rule of gratitude showing how those already accepted in Christ ought to walk. The believer looks to the law not for salvation but for sanctification, not to be justified but to be instructed in righteousness.
Scripture References
“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”
“The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.”
“Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word. With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments. Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.”
“For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:”
“Make me to go in the path of thy commandments; for therein do I delight.”