The Law, the Gospel, and the Modern Christian: Five Views

Description

The Law, the Gospel, and the Modern Christian: Five Views is a theological book that explores the complex relationship between the Old Testament Law and the New Testament Gospel, focusing on its relevance to modern Christian life. Edited by Wayne G. Strickland, it employs a “Counterpoints” format, where five Protestant scholars present distinct perspectives and critique each other’s views. Below is a summary of the five approaches discussed in the book:

Non-Theonomic Reformed View (Willem A. VanGemeren)
This view holds that the moral law, as summarized in the Ten Commandments, remains binding on Christians today. It divides the Mosaic Law into three categories: ceremonial, civil, and moral. While the ceremonial and civil laws have been fulfilled in Christ and are no longer binding, the moral law reflects God’s eternal standards and continues to guide Christian living.

Theonomic Reformed View (Greg L. Bahnsen)
Bahnsen argues that all aspects of God’s law, including Old Testament civil laws, remain applicable unless explicitly repealed in the New Testament. He emphasizes that these laws should guide not only individual Christians but also governments, as they reflect God’s justice.

Law as “Gracious Guidance” View (Walter C. Kaiser Jr.)
Kaiser emphasizes continuity between the Mosaic Law and the Gospel, advocating that the “weightier matters” of the Old Testament Law still hold relevance for Christians. He stresses that the Law serves as gracious guidance for ethical living under God’s covenant.

Dispensational View (Wayne G. Strickland)
This perspective sees a sharp discontinuity between the Old Testament Law and the Gospel. It argues that Christians are no longer under Mosaic Law but are instead governed by “the law of Christ,” which is revealed in the New Testament.

Modified Lutheran View (Douglas J. Moo)
Moo contends that Christ fulfills the Mosaic Law, rendering it non-binding for Christians today unless explicitly reaffirmed in the New Testament. He highlights that believers are now guided by new covenant commands rooted in Christ’s teachings.

The book provides a platform for each contributor to present their arguments and engage with critiques from others, offering readers a comprehensive comparison of these theological positions. It is an essential resource for understanding how Protestant traditions interpret biblical law and its implications for faith and practice today.