The question of why God gave the Law, knowing humans couldn't perfectly keep it, is a central and complex one in theology, particularly within Christianity. Here's a breakdown of the common perspectives:
1. To Reveal Sin and Human Inability:
* The Primary Purpose: Many theologians believe the Law's primary purpose was to *reveal* the extent of human sinfulness and our inherent inability to live up to God's perfect standard. Romans 3:20 states, "For through the law comes knowledge of sin." The Law acts like a mirror, showing us our imperfections and how far we fall short of God's righteousness.
* Understanding our Need for a Savior: By demonstrating our inability to perfectly obey the Law, it highlights our need for a savior. We are shown that we cannot earn salvation through our own works, but require God's grace and forgiveness.
* Conviction and Humility: The Law is meant to bring us to a place of conviction, acknowledging our sin and humbling ourselves before God. This humility is a crucial step towards seeking and accepting God's grace.
2. To Guide Behavior and Maintain Order:
* Moral Compass: Even if we can't perfectly fulfill it, the Law provides a clear moral compass for how we should live. It establishes principles of justice, love, and righteousness that are beneficial for individuals and society as a whole.
* Restraining Evil: The Law acts as a restraint on sinful behavior. The fear of consequences (whether legal or social) can deter people from committing certain acts, even if they are not perfectly motivated by righteousness. This is especially true in the Old Testament context where the law of Moses was the law of the land.
* Blueprint for a Righteous Society: The Law offers a blueprint for a society that is ordered, just, and reflects God's character. While impossible to achieve perfectly, striving towards these principles improves the human condition.
3. To Point to Christ:
* The Law as a "Schoolmaster": Galatians 3:24 states, "So then, the law was our guardian until Christ came, in order that we might be justified by faith." The Law, in its condemnation of sin, drives us towards Christ, who is the only one who can truly fulfill the Law's requirements.
* Fulfillment in Christ: Jesus himself stated that he did not come to abolish the Law, but to fulfill it (Matthew 5:17). He lived a perfectly righteous life, meeting the Law's demands on our behalf.
* The Law Reveals our Need for Christ's Sacrifice: The sacrificial system within the Law pointed towards the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who atoned for the sins of humanity. The constant need for sacrifices under the Law revealed its inadequacy to truly cleanse sin.
4. To Demonstrate God's Holiness and Righteousness:
* Reflecting God's Character: The Law reflects the very nature of God – his holiness, righteousness, and justice. It reveals what God considers to be good and evil.
* Setting a High Standard: The Law sets a high standard, demonstrating the importance of moral purity and obedience to God. This standard reminds us that God's expectations are high and that we should strive to live in accordance with his will, even if we fall short.
Important Considerations:
* Grace vs. Works: It's crucial to remember that salvation is a gift of grace, received through faith in Jesus Christ, and not earned through perfect adherence to the Law.
* The Law and Christian Living: While Christians are not under the Law as a means of salvation, the principles of the Law still inform our understanding of right and wrong and guide us in living a life that is pleasing to God. We strive to live according to God's will because we love him, not to earn his favor.
In summary, God gave the Law not to make salvation possible through works, but to:
* Reveal the depth of human sin and our need for a savior.
* Provide a moral framework for society.
* Point to Christ as the fulfillment of the Law.
* Demonstrate God's perfect holiness and righteousness.
The Law, therefore, serves a vital purpose in God's plan of redemption, even though it's impossible for humans to perfectly keep it. It prepares us for the grace and forgiveness that are freely offered through Jesus Christ.