The following is a very popular Lutheran hymn on the law of God and its relationship to us. Though there are many theological camps which reject the continuity of the law (viz. the moral law) for believers in the New Covenant, Reformed Christians have always affirmed the use of the law in the life of Christians. However they do not believe that Christians are to see law as a covenant of works by which we shall be justified, but rather as a rule of life. All of these truths are beautifully presented in this beautiful hymn.
The Law of God Is Good and Wise
Words : Matthias Loy, 1828-1915
Music : “Erhalt uns, Herr" | Download
Text : Ps. 19: 8
1. The Law of God is good and wise
And sets His will before our eyes,
Shows us the way of righteousness,
And dooms to death when we transgress.
2. Its light of holiness imparts
The knowledge of our sinful hearts
That we may see our lost estate
And seek deliverance ere too late.
3. To those who help in Christ have found
And would in works of love abound
It shows what deeds are His delight
And should be done as good and right.
4. When men the offered help disdain
And wilfully in sin remain,
Its terror in their ear resounds
And keeps their wickedness in bounds.
5. The Law is good; but since the Fall
Its holiness condemns us all;
It dooms us for our sin to die
And has no power to justify.
6. To Jesus we for refuge flee,
Who from the curse has set us free,
And humbly worship at His throne,
Saved by His grace through faith alone.
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Hymn #295 in The Lutheran Hymnal
