The law of Moses is a gift from God and it is a good gift. But, it did not bring out goodness in us. Instead it caused desire to spring to life and awaken a defiant and rebellious spirit. Therefore, the law cannot save, because sin will always use the law against us by the weakness of our own flesh. The flesh, sin, and law work to produce death in us – to kill us. But, it is still good, in that it shows us our great need for God’s mercy and grace. Paul turns from the law which only triggers sin in the flesh, and directs us, instead, to a life of obedience through the life of the spirit. He no longer governs by law, but inspires by grace.
