Understanding the Law in Judaism and the Fulfillment in Christ: A Baptist Perspective

Understanding the Law in Judaism and the Fulfillment in Christ: A Baptist Perspective

In exploring the rich history of faith and doctrine, we see the distinct approach taken by Judaism and Baptism toward the Law. At King James Bible College, it’s essential to understand the basis of the Jewish Law and how it contrasts with the Baptist view of grace, faith, and salvation. For both Jews and Christians, the Law holds an essential place, yet the approach to its observance and fulfillment varies significantly.

The 613 Commandments of Judaism

In Judaism, it is believed that God gave His people 613 commandments, or “mitzvot,” in the Torah. These laws cover a vast array of topics, from rituals and dietary rules to ethical guidelines. While the exact list of these laws can vary slightly, they encompass every aspect of daily and religious life for the Jewish people. Yet, with the destruction of the Temple in 70 AD and the changes in Jewish society, many of these laws are impossible to fully observe today. Estimates suggest that, out of the original 613, only a little over 200 can be kept in modern practice. The Jewish people recognize that they cannot fulfill all of these laws, as many pertain specifically to the Temple sacrifices, the priesthood, and the land of Israel, which are no longer practiced in the same way.

This acknowledgment within Judaism highlights an important truth: the Law is incredibly demanding, revealing both the holiness of God and the limitations of humanity in achieving perfect obedience.

The Baptist Perspective: Jesus and the Fulfillment of the Law

As Baptists, we believe that the Law was given to reveal the nature of God’s holiness and our inability to meet His standards through human effort. Galatians 3:24 reminds us, “Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.” The Law shows us how far we fall short, underscoring our need for a Savior who could fulfill the Law on our behalf.

The Baptist doctrine teaches that Jesus Christ came to fulfill the Law fully and perfectly. His sacrifice on the cross was not just for past sins but covered all sin—past, present, and future. As stated in Hebrews 10:10, “By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” We are no longer bound by the Law for righteousness but are justified by faith in Christ’s finished work.

Contrasting Beliefs: Judaism and Baptist Doctrine

In Judaism, righteousness is often linked with obedience to the Law. Although the sacrifices and Temple worship are no longer practiced, the Law still plays a central role, and righteous living is sought through adhering to commandments that remain applicable today. Some branches of Judaism also emphasize repentance, good works, and prayer as means of maintaining a close relationship with God.

In contrast, Baptists believe that no amount of good works, commandments, or sacrifices can make us righteous before a holy God. Romans 3:23-24 states, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” This righteousness is not something we earn but a gift we receive by grace through faith. Christ’s sacrifice was the final, all-sufficient atonement for sin, fulfilling the requirements of the Law once and for all.

The Purpose of the Law

For both Jews and Christians, the Law has served as a mirror to reveal the standard of God’s holiness. In Judaism, the Law continues to serve as a guide to righteous living and ethical behavior. However, as Baptists, we believe that the Law was given to bring us to Christ, revealing the depths of human sin and the incredible heights of God’s grace.

The Law, with its hundreds of commandments, shows us the perfection of God’s standard and makes us keenly aware of our inability to meet it on our own. Jesus, as the fulfillment of the Law, provides the bridge to God that we could never create on our own. By grace, we are saved, and by faith, we are justified.

Conclusion: Grace, Faith, and Fulfillment

In recognizing the 613 commandments and the impossibility of fulfilling them all, we gain a deeper appreciation for the grace offered in Christ. While the Law was a significant covenant between God and His people, its ultimate purpose, as understood in Baptist doctrine, was to lead us to Jesus. Unlike Judaism, which continues to honor and observe the Law, Baptists place their faith in Christ’s complete and perfect fulfillment of the Law, freeing us from its demands.

At King James Bible College, we are reminded that our salvation is not of ourselves, not of works, but entirely a gift from God through Jesus Christ. In understanding the Law and the differences between these two perspectives, we can better appreciate the freedom we have in Christ and the amazing grace He offers to all who believe.