Definition: Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Romans 3:31. It's a really important and often misunderstood part of Christian theology. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is essentially saying that human effort to earn God’s favor through our own works (or, more accurately, our faith) is ultimately futile. It challenges the idea that we can earn God’s acceptance by doing good things or being righteous. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Do we then make void the law…” – This means we are trying to replace God’s laws with our own ideas, practices, or efforts. We're attempting to create something that feels good enough to please God, instead of trusting in God's grace and love. “…through faith?” - This is the crucial part. Faith isn’t just believing things; it’s a relationship with God based on trust and belief. It’s a deep conviction that God loves us even when we don’t deserve it. “God forbid: yea, we establish the law.” – This is where the warning comes in. It means that actively trying to follow God's laws (like obeying rules and regulations) is actually hindering our relationship with God and preventing us from receiving His grace. It’s like trying to build a house on sand – it won’t last! So, what does this verse mean in practical terms? It suggests that: God's law was given to us as a guide for living. It’s meant to lead us towards righteousness and to show us how we should behave. True righteousness comes from God’s grace – His love and forgiveness, not our own efforts. We don’t earn it with good works; we receive it through Jesus Christ. Focusing on faith is the key to a relationship with God. It's about trusting in God’s plan and accepting his gift of salvation rather than trying to make something perfect by our own efforts. In short, the verse warns us against attempting to earn God’s approval through our own accomplishments. It emphasizes that true righteousness comes from God's grace and is received through faith. --- Resources for Further Understanding: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%3A31](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%3A31) GotQuestions.org: [https://www.gotquestions.org/Romans-3-31.html](https://www.gotquestions.org/Romans-3-31.html) Would you like me to: Explain a specific aspect of this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of how this principle applies to our lives?