Scripture Reading: Hebrews 7:11-13

Introduction

A. When the Continental Congress declared American independence, they cast aside the only form of government they had ever known, and the process of establishing a new order took several years.

B. When it comes to altering government or religion, changes are never east to achieve, but are usually well worth the sacrifices.

Discussion

I. Abandoning the old law was a hard change for Jewish converts.

A. The law had become the most important part of Israel’s identity (Acts 13:15; 15:21; Luke 4:16; cf. Jeremiah 29:10-14).

B. The people of Israel saw themselves as the guardians of the sacred law (Romans 2:17-20; cf. Acts 7:53).

C. Blasphemy against the law was considered a very serious crime in the eyes of the Jews (Acts 6:11-13; 18:13-15; 21:28).

II. As difficult as it was, this was a good change.

A. This was, after all, the only way that forgiveness could come (Psalms 32:1-2; 51:9; 103:11-12; cf. Romans 3:19-20; Acts 13:38-39).

B. The law had served its vital purpose (Galatians 3:19-21).

C. Far from blaspheming the law, the gospel actually established it (Romans 3:28-31; Matthew 5:17-18).

Conclusion

A. While I might now struggle with letting go of the rituals and commandments of the old law, there might still be some laws imposed on my life that I might need to give up to follow Jesus.

B. Letting go of such vanities (1 Peter 1:18-19) may not be easy, but it is certainly worthwhile.