📖 Biblical Definition
The law-gospel distinction is the hermeneutical principle — especially prominent in Lutheran and Reformed theology — that Scripture contains two fundamentally different words from God. The law commands, demands, and condemns: "Cursed be everyone who does not abide by all things written in the Book of the Law, and do them" (Galatians 3:10). The gospel promises, gives, and saves: "For by grace you have been saved through faith" (Ephesians 2:8). The law shows us our sin and our need; the gospel shows us our Savior and our hope. Confusing these two words — turning the gospel into a new law, or turning the law into mere suggestions — is the root of most theological error. Rightly distinguishing law and gospel is the key to faithful preaching and sound doctrine.
📜 Webster 1828 Definition
Law: a rule of action prescribed by authority. Gospel: the history and doctrines of Jesus Christ; the glad tidings of salvation.
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LAW, n. A rule, particularly an established or permanent rule, prescribed by the supreme power of a state. In theology, the moral law, or the revealed will of God as a rule of life. GOS'PEL, n. The good news of salvation through Jesus Christ. Note: The distinction is inherent in the definitions themselves — law prescribes duty; gospel announces deliverance.
📖 Key Scripture
• Galatians 3:10-11 — "Cursed be everyone who does not abide by all things written in the Book of the Law... The righteous shall live by faith."
• Romans 3:20-22 — "Through the law comes knowledge of sin. But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law."
• John 1:17 — "The law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ."
⚠️ Modern Corruption
Law and gospel are either conflated or severed rather than properly distinguished.
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Legalism conflates law and gospel by making obedience the ground of acceptance with God — turning the gospel into a new law with higher demands. Antinomianism severs law and gospel by claiming the law has no ongoing relevance for believers — turning the gospel into a license for lawlessness. Moralistic preaching gives all law and no gospel — crushing hearers with demands but offering no Christ. Therapeutic preaching gives all comfort and no law — affirming hearers without confronting sin. The proper distinction preserves both: the law exposes sin and drives us to Christ; the gospel pardons and renews; and the law then guides the regenerate life out of gratitude, not as a condition of acceptance.
Usage
• "The law says 'do this and live'; the gospel says 'it is done — believe and live.' Confusing these two is the root of nearly every theological error."
• "Moralistic preaching gives all law and no gospel. Therapeutic preaching gives all comfort and no law. Biblical preaching rightly distinguishes both."