When you have missed the one and only gospel you probably should not be talking about true anything. The books and videos of our traditions are a near constant stream of almost great opinions so we have no choice but to remind ourselves that the attraction of elect status, like Israel, is a fatal delusion. Faith that includes law is jail time and deadly bondage and as soon as we discover grace the handcuffs are off.

Same language different realm

Though we acknowledge that the options are distinct and the stakes are inestimable North American society is still entranced by exotic words and cultures. The fathers of the church used the language and stories of the Old Testament to say something about God that was a refreshing change from the law and the prophets.

If all we take away from reading the Old Testament is law and obedience we are vulnerable to a lifestyle of anger, futile cycles, symbols, and childish consequences. Even an experience item like the Sabbath becomes an idol instead of a gift made for humanity, especially when it is not accepted as a symbol of rest.

If all we take away from reading the New Testament is law of obedience we are very likely to have not been touched by the light or we are distancing ourselves from the gospel. Either scenario will deny us the benefits of grace. The Bible was written to awaken faith because law was not going to ever bring pardon and adoption.

Imprisoned then freed

23) But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. 24) Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.

Galatians 3:23-24

Law and Faith are not partners

12. And the law is not of faith: but, The man that does them shall live in them. 13. Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangs on a tree: 14. That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

Galatians 3:12-14