Outside Ourselves

A Very Friendly Debate: The Third Use of the Law

Outside Ourselves

Show Notes

In a new segment of Outside Ourselves, Kelsi hosts theologians Robert Kolb and Steven Paulson for a debate on the third use of the law. Dr. Kolb argues the third use of the law is an essential way in which the law functions within the life of the Christian to guide them to serve and love their neighbor, or as he likes to say, to "give shape to their good works." In contrast, Dr. Paulson argues that, Biblically speaking ,there are only two uses of the law: the first use, which curbs evil, and the second which reveals our unrighteousness and drives sinners to Christ. His interpretation relies heavily on the Reformation doctrine that we are simultaneously sinful and righteous. Because of this, Paulson contends that the law always addresses the old man, functioning to accuse and kill, while the new man in Christ remains free from the law. For Paulson, the gospel alone—not the law—defines both good works and the Christian life.

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