how christians 'fulfill the law of Christ'

As Christians, we understand that only Christ has fulfilled God's law on our behalf. We cannot hope to merit, in any way, our justification. Yet Galatians 6:2 says, "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."

John Piper comments that this reference to the law isn't about justification per se, but in the way Christians love. Here are some comments he gives on this verse:

• Our fulfilling of the law refers to a life of real love for people (Rom 13:8,10 / Gal 5:13-18)

• It is not the ground of our justification, it is a fruit of it.

• It is rendered NOT in our own strength, but by the presence and power of the Holy Spirit.

• It is rendered by FAITH as we trust Christ. This faith is the faith that justifiies - i.e. it is a gift.

• It is NOT a perfect love in this life. (Rom 7, Phil 3)

• It will become perfect when we die. (Rom 8:30 / Heb 12:23). It will be perfectly fulfilled in the future. But, we will be no more than justified sinners, and nothing more. Our righteousness is imputed. May Jesus' name be praised alone.

• It is sometimes called the "law of liberty", or "the law of Christ" in scripture.

• It is performed by means of trusting another who's obedience was already perfect.

• It is always pointing away from me and towards Jesus.



- "When you pursue love... pursue it as one who is free from the law as the ground of your acceptance with God. Pursue it as the law of liberty!"

- Our pursuit of love is an "indirect pursuit". We first go through Christ, not directly to the commandment, to love God and neighbor.

- Your God-dependent, Christ-exalting, Faith-based love for people which is based on your justification, is a REAL kind of love, it's really what the law requires.

- The goal of the law is Christ for righteousness (Rom 10:4)