The Third Use of the Law

Abstract

Prof. Becker writes about his growing fear of antinomianism making inroads among the Lutheran church. He sets this discussion in the background of Luther’s antinomian disputes with John Agricola before laying out some basic principles for Christians to ponder with regard to the role of the law in our life. Becker incorporates all three uses of the law as he relates the function of law as mirror and curb, and particularly as guide. But Becker also underscores the importance of constant gospel motivation for the child of God. For believers who know what the Triune God has done for them, “there will never be any better reason for doing what is right than that this will please him who is the source of every blessing that we enjoy, and who loved us unto death.”