Introductory Thoughts
Most people do not understand or recognize that the law and grace are polar opposites. The law emphasizes man’s responsibility to God, while grace emphasizes God’s efforts toward man. The law’s purpose shows man his sin and points him to God for help (Romans 3:20). Additionally, the law condemns man and sheds light upon the fact that he has no hope. Interestingly, the first five books of the Bible (commonly called the books of the Law) make no reference to the word hope. Some might ask why? Because the law simply reveals that man has no hope apart from God. As such, the Lord Jesus brought in a “better hope . . . by the which we draw nigh unto God.” Any man who places his hope and trust in what he can do or must do for God has lost sight of what God must do for him.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): What does a teacher help you do? The Bible says the law is a teacher. Its main purpose is found in Galatians 3:24. Our only hope is in the Lord (Galatians 2:16). No one can keep all of the commandments (James 2:10).
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(For everyone): Where is the first place in the Bible that you find the word hope? Why is this significant? Why would it be missing in the previous books? Why would it first show up in this particular book?
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Did you ever think you could find hope by doing good things? How did your attempts leave you? Did this work to draw you to Christ?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to remind you from whence hope comes.
- Thank God for the hope you have through grace.
Song
CHRIST RECEIVETH SINFUL MEN
