In Galatians 2:21 Paul makes this bold statement… As a matter of fact, it can be argued it’s one of the more provocative declarations in the entire Bible. He says, “I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain.”

In a sense Paul is saying that if the Gospel is not grace period, and that if what we do or don’t do indeed plays a role in either our salvation or sanctification, “then Christ died in vain” - or literally Christ wasted His time on the cross! The stakes were that high!

In the Greek this word “set aside” means “to do away with.” Paul was so tenacious in confronting legalism because the promoting of this notion that God’s favor can be earned or maintain was not only untrue, but dangerous because it limited the effective work of grace!

You see the law has no place in your life because it only fosters distance between you and God! It emphasizes your problem and not the solution! The law reminds you of God’s holiness and it illustrates the depths of your falleness.

What you need most in the moment of failure is not distance from God, but a great Reconciler to remind you that in spite of yourself God still loves you. Always remember Romans 2:4, “It is the goodness of God (grace not law) that leads you to repentance!”

Friend, if your involvement plays any role in your justification or perfection then the truth is that Christ died for nothing! Here’s the inescapable reality… You either need all of Christ or no Christ at all! Friend, grace really does change everything.