What‘s the Difference Between the Law and the Gospel?

Zacharias Ursinus said, "The doctrine of the church is the entire and uncorrupted doctrine of the law and gospel concerning the true God, together with his will, works, and worship." How do we understand words like "Gospel" or "Law"? Narrowly, the Gospel tells us what Christ has done for us (indicative). But broadly, the Gospel can exhort (imperative) and even threaten (Canons of Dort, 5.14). The Law can refer to the Law of Moses, broadly, or to the moral law more narrowly. But of what use is the Law for those who are united to Christ? If, in Christ, we are justified, adopted, and sanctified - if our 'old self' was crucified and we are raised with Christ - of what use can the law be? Does the law merely function negatively, showing us our sinfulness and inability, or does the Holy Spirit empower us to follow God's commands (though imperfectly)? In this episode, Pastors Zac and Brandon give an introduction to these questions. 

For more information, see: 

The Whole Christ by Sinclair Ferguson 

Commentary on the Heidelberg Catechism (pp. 608-618) by Zacharias Ursinus 

By Faith, Not By Sight by Richard B. Gaffin Jr.

The Path of Faith: A Biblical Theology of Covenant and Law by Brandon Crowe 

The Ten Commandments by Thomas Watson 

A New Testament Biblical Theology (ch. 25-26) by G.K. Beale 

Sacred Bond: Covenant Theology Explored by Michael Brown and Zach Keele 

The Law-Gospel Distinction by Zac Wyse