Zachariah and Elizabeth were "righteous before God, living blamelessly according to all the commandments and regulations of the Lord" (Luke 1:6). Zechariah, a priest in the Jerusalem temple, was greeted by the angel Gabriel, who announced that Zechariah and Elizabeth would become parents of a son. Initially Zechariah did not believe Gabriel's announcement because of their old age. For his disbelief Zechariah became unable to speak. After their son was born, Elizabeth named her son John. Zechariah confirmed his wife's choice, and his ability to speak was restored. In response he sang the Benedictus, a magnificent summary of God's promises in the Old Testament and a prediction of John's work as forerunner to Jesus (Luke 1:68-79). Zechariah and Elizabeth are remembered as examples of faithfulness and piety. [From "Commemorations Biographies," Lutheran Service Book, LCMS Commission on Worship]
Understanding the difference between Law and Gospel is the heart of Christianity. You can’t understand the freedom of the Gospel without knowing the imprisonment of the Law.
The distinction between Law and Gospel is what makes Lutheranism different from all other religions. Other Christian denominations, cults, false religions, and heathens all commingle the Law and Gospel. Adding a smidge of Law taints the Gospel: “This is what you must do to be saved!” Whether it is an altar call or the works of penance, the outcome is the same. They add requirements to the Gospel message, making it false.
There are no requirements in the Gospel. It is a pure gift from God. The Law is also a gift from God, but it is all about requirements. This distinction does not make the Law opposed to the Gospel. To the contrary, the Law and the Gospel are united. They work together for a common cause. Their purpose is the salvation of God’s people.
The Law demands the fulfillment of righteousness. “Be ye perfect, as I the Lord your God am perfect.” There are no exceptions or loopholes in the Law. It sentences all mankind. It is futile to attempt to reach God and salvation ourselves. The Ten Commandments instruct us to place God and our neighbor before ourselves. We are fooled into believing we can fulfill these commands of God.
The Gospel demands nothing, but grants everything. It is the only truly good news. When our Lord Jesus Christ said from the cross, “It is finished!” the promise between God and man was complete. There is nothing to add to the pure love of God. There can be no doubt, worry, or uncertainty when God has done all that is required for our salvation. Our Lord Jesus Christ died for the forgiveness of all mankind. He has done all things well. Amen.
I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. Philippians 4:11b
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