Law and Gospel Applied: How Grace Changes the Christian Life | Tom Hicks
In this third and final lecture, Tom Hicks applies law–gospel theology to practical questions of Christian obedience.
Using examples drawn from Sabbath observance, sexual purity, prayer, anger, marriage and family life, Hicks contrasts the responses of the legalist, the antinomian and the gospel-hearted Christian.
The legalist attempts to overcome guilt through outward obedience. The antinomian appeals to grace while resisting the authority and conviction of God’s law. The Christian, however, allows the law to expose the true depth of sin, looks to Jesus Christ for forgiveness and righteousness, and then seeks to obey from faith, gratitude and love.
Drawing upon Mark 2, 1 Corinthians 6, 1 Thessalonians 5 and the Ten Commandments, Hicks demonstrates a practical threefold movement:
Receive the conviction of God’s law
Look to Christ in the gospel
Pursue obedience under grace
The gospel does not merely modify outward behaviour. It frees Christians to confess their sins, rest in Christ’s righteousness and pursue genuine change from the heart. Sanctification is often slow and faltering, but through the ordinary means of grace, Christ teaches his people to put sin to death and walk in loving obedience.
