31 Do we then make void the law through faith? Certainly not! On the contrary, we establish the law.
Salvation by faith without works of the law has an implication on the disposition of the law itself. Does salvation by faith mean that God’s law is abrogated? Does this open the door for license to sin?
31 Do we then make void [nullify, render ineffective] the [no definite article] law [Scripture] through faith?
This is the eighth time Paul uses “faith” in 3:22-31. The faith alternative does not negate the idea behind the law but affirms it in principle. The law reveals that God’s person and works are absolute. The only way we can fellowship with God, therefore, is by faith, because it is impossible to measure up to God by works.
Certainly not! [emphatic, especially in Greek]
The literal idea here is “let it not come into being.” This is a strong denial of the idea that somehow God’s standards change.
On the contrary, we establish the [no definite article in Greek, indicating quality] law.
God meets the purpose of the law by saving people by faith. The principle of faith gives meaning to the true idea of the law. Justification by faith is consistent with the law of the Old Testament because it affirms God’s need to penalize sin and resolves that need by Jesus’ paying that penalty.
PRINCIPLE:
Faith in Christ’s death works out the purpose of the law.
APPLICATION:
Faith establishes the law by trust in the principle of death for sin. Sin requires death before we can have a relationship with God. God’s character demands a solution to the sin problem. God established the law by executing the penalty of the law. Faith in Christ’s death declares the believer free from the death penalty. God did not ignore the sin issue but treated it so seriously that He killed His Son on the cross so that we can have His heaven. He paid our debt in full. When we place faith in that, God is free to declare us as right as he is right.
Ro 6:23, For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
I still have a question. It doesn’t say how we are to uphold the law. There is a group of believers who believe we need to be observing the Jewish Feasts and holy days. Do you see this as the truth? They say it isn’t for salvation, but out of obedience, because we don’t want to go on sinning once we know the truth.
Alicia, start studying this passage and keep advancing the studies until you finish the chapter: https://versebyversecommentary.com/colossians/colossians-216/