Page 6 - Laying Down the Law

Preamble

ractically since the time I published the original book bearing the name Laying
PDown the Law, it has been upon my heart to add to it. That was in 2002. I have
participated in many conversations and lengthy correspondences on the subject of
Yahweh’s intended purpose and role for the Law since then. I have encountered a
vast array of arguments whose intent was to justify the continuance of the Law’s
authority and rule over the life of the believer in Jesus Christ, Yahshua the Messiah.
I have tested every argument, and sought the counsel of Yahweh, inviting Him
often and with fervor to guide me into all truth. He has been very willing to answer
my sincere and trusting pleas. As James (Jacob) wrote to the body of Christ:

James 1:5
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all men generously
and without reproach, and it will be given to him.

There have been so many arguments that would turn the intended meaning of
the apostles instructions concerning the Law on their head, and so much more
revelation the Father has graciously opened to me on this topic, that I find it
expedient to not merely add to the former writing, but to do a thorough re-write.
None of the conclusions set forth previously have been changed. Nevertheless, I
believe it would be of benefit to address this subject with a new approach, laying a
solid foundation and building upon it.

The Difficulty of This Work

There are a number of things that make the writing of this book a difficult task.
Foremost in my mind are the attitudes, words, and emotions of those who staunchly
advocate the continuance of the Law’s authority over the saints. I have found through
much bitter experience that the discussion of this topic elicits from many a vitriolic
response. I have had brothers and sisters revile me. Even some who are normally
meek and temperate have become very intemperate in their remarks as I have invited
them to look to the Scriptures and discourse with me on this subject. Much heat and
frequent violations of the love of the brethren have come forth from those I have
invited to patiently examine this matter with me.
If one properly understands the Scripture’s testimony, they will know that such
a response has a long and tragic history. One can find the enmity that exists between
those whose focus is upon works of the flesh, and those who approach Yahweh in
faith, as far back as the Chapter four of the book of Genesis. Cain brought to Yahweh
a magnificent offering of the fruit of the ground. Man’s flesh was formed of the dust
of the earth, and Cain’s offering represented the very best that the flesh can produce.
Yahweh had no regard to this offering.
Cain’s brother Abel brought forth of the lambs of the flock. He presented an