Reformed Forum Stephen Spinnenweber | Loving the Law
In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey and Carlton Wynne are joined by Rev. Stephen Spinnenweber, author of Loving the Law: The Law of God in the Life of the Believer, to explore the enduring significance of God’s moral law in the Christian life. They discuss the book’s development, its theological foundations, and its practical applications for pastors, congregants, and Christian parents.
The conversation clarifies the Reformed understanding of the threefold use of the law and addresses common misconceptions surrounding legalism and antinomianism. Stephen offers a pastoral and theologically rich vision for delighting in the law as a gracious guide for believers—one rooted in God’s character and purpose for humanity. The trio also touches on civil use of the law, the Sabbath, and the broader cultural and political implications of God’s moral order.
This episode is a refreshing call to recover a joyful obedience to God’s commandments—not as a means of earning salvation, but as the grateful response of those saved by grace and empowered by the Spirit.
Chapters- 00:00:07 Introduction
- 00:10:32 Coming to this Project
- 00:18:40 The Choice of the Subtitle
- 00:20:39 The Law/Gospel Distinction
- 00:33:11 The Ceremonial, Civil, and Moral Law
- 00:39:29 God’s Law and the State
- 00:47:08 The Fourth Commandment and the State
- 00:51:44 The Spirit’s Working in Providing The Will and Ability to Obey
- 01:07:31 Conclusion