The Function of the Law

The covenant of the Law was given that we might fear God. Those who preach the gospel with no reference to God’s Law will reap “converts” who have no reverence for God. Verse 5 underscores the Third Commandment, which demands reverence for God’s holy name.

The end of these “converts” can be seen in Matt. 7:21–23. They continue to practice “lawlessness” despite doing religious works in His name. The genuine convert, however, will have the Law of truth in his mouth. He will magnify God’s Law and make it honorable (see Isa. 42:21). He has named the name of Christ and departed from iniquity (see 2 Tim. 2:19). Iniquity is not found in his lips, and he turns many away from iniquity because his preaching makes continual reference to the Law that sinners have violated.

Jesus rebuked the lawyers, those who should have been preaching God’s Law to bring the knowledge of sin to Israel. He said, “You have taken away the key of knowledge (Luke 11:52). It is the key of the Law that leads to the door of the Savior. It is a “tutor” to bring us to Christ (see Gal. 3:24).

If you want sinners to be saved, don’t be afraid to confront them with the Ten Commandments.

Malachi 2:5 “My covenant was with him, one of life and peace, And I gave them to him that he might fear Me; So he feared Me
And was reverent before My name.
6The law of truth was in his mouth,
And injustice was not found on his lips.
He walked with Me in peace and equity,
And turned many away from iniquity.
7“For the lips of a priest should keep knowledge,
And people should seek the law from his mouth;
For he is the messenger of the Lord of hosts.
8But you have departed from the way;
You have caused many to stumble at the law.
You have corrupted the covenant of Levi,”
Says the Lord of hosts.