Introduction 

The problem most people have with laws is the punishment that comes from breaking them. The ancient Israelites had 613 laws and specific consequences for breaking them…even by accident. Instructions, on the other hand, give a set of facts and steps for how to handle problems that come up. Gary Keesee has a five-step process for acquiring some provision from God. One step requires the person to search the Scriptures for promises specific to that provision. So many people struggle with the question “Are the laws to be obeyed or instructions for wisdom?”

Requirements Have Been Fulfilled

Time and again, some speaker for God told the Israelites, “You must obey all of God’s laws. However, you cannot obey all these laws. Yahweh will one day make you able to walk in the peace and abundance that come from obedience.”

Peter, concerning the Jewish commands

Now then, why do you try to test God by putting on the necks of Gentiles a yoke that neither we nor our ancestors have been able to bear? (Acts 15:10)

Paul, concerning his own inability to obey

As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. (Romans 7:17-19) Paul went on to write Romans 8, saying that faith, grace, and living by Holy Spirit enables obedience to God. 

Jesus said He had come to fulfill the Law and the Prophets. Most believers understand He meant that He would faithfully obey all the requirements of the Law and die in the place of all Humanity, who did not obey.

Punishable Rules or Guides for Behavior?

So, now people debate whether God’s commands are laws to be obeyed or instructions for wisdom. Religious people – certainly those who want to control the unruly behavior of others – demand punishment on anyone who breaks any one of the commands. And, as Gary Keesee teaches, consequences naturally come on those who break God’s laws.

More lenient people hold on to the belief that Jesus did fulfill all the laws for us. Therefore, He does not obligate us to hold fast to every one. “Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.” (Romans 13:10) What He does require is to trust in God’s forgiveness and enabling power by Holy Spirit (Romans 8).

Wisdom for Life Today

So many of the specific laws no longer apply, given today’s non-agrarian culture. “If you come across your enemy’s ox or donkey wandering off, be sure to return it. If you see the donkey of someone who hates you fallen down under its load, do not leave it there; be sure you help them with it.” (Exodus 23:4-5) These laws can only instruct us in principles of living in love and generosity. 

Tim and John of Bible Project speak to this in Why Say “Kingdom of the Skies” Instead of “Kingdom of Heaven”? 8:05-18:00.

Questions 

Do you feel bound to rules and laws you are unable to obey? Jesus came full of grace and truth (John 1:14).

Can you see all God’s laws and commands as instructions for better living?