Understanding the Old Law

The Old Law, as revealed by God, serves as the foundational stage of the revealed law, preparing humanity for the teachings of Christ. It is encapsulated in the Ten Commandments, which outline moral truths accessible to human reason and restrain actions contrary to the love of God and neighbor. This law acts almost like a tutor, guiding individuals toward righteousness by marking out what must be done, while simultaneously revealing humanity's limitations and the necessity of divine grace. The struggle against sin shows that, while the law is holy and good, it cannot provide the strength to adhere to its commandments on its own, leaving believers in a state of bondage unless empowered by the Holy Spirit.