What Jesus Did! 'A Stronger Grace' — Luke 16:17

Friday, September 25, 2015

"Even the smallest part of a letter in the law cannot be changed. It would be easier for heaven and earth to pass away."
— Luke 16:17 NLT
Illustration of Luke 16:17 NLT — "Even the smallest part of a letter in the law cannot be changed. It would be easier for heaven and earth to pass away."

Key Thought

The intent of God's Law was to form a holy people who reflected the character of the holy God they worshiped. Jesus' goal was not to abolish the character and call of the Law, but to make it more real, permanent, and transforming in the lives of the people of God. What flawed humans couldn't do through the Law, God did through his Son and the Good News of the Kingdom that proclaimed his work. More than fulfilling the purposes of the Law, the Good News of the Kingdom made it stronger and more permanent. Grace does not just liberate us from law; it liberates us to the character the Law sought to define and command in us.

Today's Prayer

Father, I ask that your holy character and that your perfect will be displayed in what I say, how I live, and what I desire in my heart. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Jeremiah 31:31-34
  • Romans 8:1-4
  • 2 Corinthians 3:6, 17-18

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did is a one-year devotional guide through the gospels, using one short passage each day and following the Gospel in consecutive order. Each devotional consists of a passage, reflection and a prayer which opens up the day's scripture and shows how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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