Living the True Gospel by Pastor Jim Wilson

If we are free from the law then what standard do we use to compare our actions against? Paul gave us some guidance. Our freedom from the law is not an opportunity to indulge in fleshly, carnal desires. Instead, provides us with the chance to serve and love one another.   Christ did not come into the world, live a perfect life, suffer the shame of the cross, endure the wrath of God, and die a horrific death so you could be free to sin all you want. His death, burial and resurrection were not so you would be free to sin, but so you could be free from the penalty of sin and free to live the life of service he intends for you. The new standard of conduct is not a book of rules, carefully crafted by self-righteous people to prove that they are better than you. Now it is now love. We live righteous lives because we love God and love people. So instead of devouring others because of their shortcomings, we are encouraging one another, serving one another and loving one another.   In John 13:34 Jesus said, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another” (ESV).