IN WHAT DOES THE LAW DIFFER FROM THE
GOSPEL?
by
Zacharias Ursinus
1534 - 1583
Zacharias Ursinus was the primary author of the Heidelberg Catechism. This short extract is
taken from section four of Ursinus' exposition of question and answer 92 in his Commentary
on the Heidelberg Catechism (English translation by G.W. Williard, Columbus, OH, 1852;
reprinted by P & R). The electronic edition of this text was scanned and edited by Shane
Rosenthal for
Reformation Ink. It is in the
public domain and may be freely copied and distributed.
- The exposition of this question is necessary for a variety of considerations, and especially
that we may have a proper understanding of the law and the gospel, to which a knowledge of that
in which they differ greatly contributes. According to the definition of the law, which says, that it
promises rewards to those who render perfect obedience; and that it promises them freely,
inasmuch as no obedience can be meritorious in the sight of God, it would seem that it does not
differ from the gospel, which also promises eternal life freely. Yet notwithstanding this seeming
agreement, there is a great difference between the law and the gospel. They differ,
- 1. As to the mode of revelation peculiar to each.
The law is known naturally: the gospel was divinely revealed after the fall of man.
2. In matter or doctrine.
The law declares the justice of God separately considered: the gospel declares it in
connection with his mercy. The law teaches what we ought to be in order that we may be saved:
the gospel teaches in addition to this, how we may become such as this law requires, viz: by faith
in Christ.
3. In their conditions or promises.
The law promises eternal life and all good things upon the condition of our own and perfect
righteousness, and of obedience in us: the gospel promises the same blessings upon the condition
that we exercise faith in Christ, by which we embrace the obedience which another, even Christ,
has performed in our behalf; or the gospel teaches that we are justified freely by faith in Christ.
With this faith is also connected, as by an indissoluble bond, the condition of new obedience.
4. In their effects.
The law works wrath, and is the ministration of death: the gospel is the ministration of life and of
the Spirit (Rom. 4:15, 2 Cor. 3:7).
END OF ARTICLE
This text was made available on the
internet via REFORMATION INK
(http://homepage.mac.com/shanerosenthal/reformationink/index.html).
Refer any correspondence to Shane Rosenthal: Rosenthal2000@aol.com
|
