Does grace lead to antinomianism? If we are "under grace" do we still have to obey the law? Yes. In fact, absolutely yes! Grace does not negate our obedience to the law. Grace does negate the law as a system for salvation. Understanding this key difference is the topic of Romans 6 and 7. The truth is, grace is necessarily an obedient grace.

Obedience or Legalism?

Antinomianism literally means against (anti) law (nomos). In Paul's presentation of the gospel, he rejects law as a means of personal righteousness unto salvation. Meaning, obeying the law cannot save you. In fact, it was never intended to do so. The question posed is, does this negation of law equate to having no obligation whatever to obeying it. Paul's emphatic answer is NO WAY! Actually, Paul will point that grace is necessarily an obedient grace.

Grace or Law?

Grace does not lead to antinomianism. As a matter of fact, grace actually gives us the abililty to obey. Yes, grace sets us free from law as a means or way of salvation. You cannot be saved by keeping the law. Grace also sets us free from being condemned by the law when we fail to keep it. In addition, grace sets us free from an attitude of legalistic motivation to obey the law. But what grace does not do is set us free from our obligation to obey God's law. Understanding this specific nuance about grace is Paul's purpose in first verses of Romans 6. In our discussion we will explain the importance of seeing grace as an obedient grace. It is not legalism. And it is not "free grace" antinomianism with no regard for obedience whatsoever. We are, in fact, saved for good works (Ephesians 2:10; good works is equal to obedience to God's law).

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