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

Monday, September 25, 2023

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[Jesus continued,] "Until John the Baptist, the law of Moses and the messages of the prophets were your guides. But now the Good News of the Kingdom of God is preached, and everyone is eager to get in. But that doesn't mean that the law has lost its force. It is easier for heaven and earth to disappear than for the smallest point of God's law to be overturned."
— Luke 16:16-17 NLT

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, [1] but to make it more realistic, 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 durable. Grace does not just liberate us from law; it liberates us to mature into the character the law sought to define and command in us.

[1] Matthew 5:17.

Today's Prayer

Father, I ask that what I say, how I live, and what I desire in my heart will always display your holy character and your perfect will. 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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Illustration

Illustration of Luke 16:16-17 NLT — "Until John the Baptist, the law of Moses and the messages of the prophets were your guides."

About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

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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