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Understanding Antinomianism Through Biblical Exegesis

The term “antinomianism” arises from the Greek words anti (against) and nomos (law), and refers to the doctrine that Christians are not bound to obey the moral law of the Old Testament. The premise of antinomianism has taken many forms, often reflecting misunderstandings of biblical teachings on grace, law, and sanctification. This error has persisted across centuries, fueled by misinterpretations of the apostolic writings and heretical movements.

In addressing antinomianism, it is crucial to adhere to the Scriptures as the inspired, inerrant Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17). A proper understanding of the biblical teaching concerning law and grace begins with acknowledging that Jehovah’s moral law reflects His holiness and is integral to Christian sanctification.

The Law as Holy, Righteous, and Good

The Apostle Paul emphasized that the law is “holy, righteous, and good” (Romans 7:12). It serves multiple purposes in God’s redemptive plan. First, the law reveals sin. As Paul stated, “through the law comes the knowledge of sin” (Romans 3:20). Without the moral law, humanity would lack a clear understanding of what constitutes sin and rebellion against Jehovah’s will (Romans 7:7).

Second, the law acts as a “guardian” or “schoolmaster” to lead individuals to Christ (Galatians 3:24). By exposing the sinner’s inability to achieve righteousness through works, the law directs them toward faith in Jesus Christ. This foundational principle is evident in Paul’s assertion: “For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes” (Romans 10:4). Here, “end” refers not to termination but to the fulfillment and goal of the law in Christ.

Finally, the law provides a standard for holy living, even for those under grace. Paul explicitly rejected the notion that grace nullifies moral obligations: “Do we then overthrow the law by this faith? By no means! On the contrary, we uphold the law” (Romans 3:31). This verse underscores the enduring relevance of Jehovah’s moral law as a guide for those who seek to live righteously.

Grace and the Misinterpretation of Liberty

Antinomianism often arises from a misinterpretation of grace. Advocates of this error claim that salvation by grace absolves believers from the obligation to obey the moral law. Such reasoning contradicts the biblical doctrine of sanctification, which teaches that obedience to Jehovah’s commands is a natural outgrowth of saving faith.

Paul addressed this distortion in his epistle to the Romans: “What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it?” (Romans 6:1-2). The believer’s union with Christ in His death and resurrection signifies a break from sin’s dominion. The apostle elaborates: “But thanks be to God, that you who were once slaves of sin have become obedient from the heart to the standard of teaching to which you were committed” (Romans 6:17).

Rather than providing a license for sin, grace empowers believers to walk in obedience. This transformative process is described in Titus 2:11-12: “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age.” Thus, grace not only justifies but also sanctifies.

Misapplications in the Early Church

The apostles contended with early expressions of antinomianism in the first-century church. In Corinth, some argued that believers, justified by faith, were free to engage in immorality. Paul rebuked this error, declaring: “Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Shall I then take the members of Christ and make them members of a prostitute? Never!” (1 Corinthians 6:15).

Similarly, in Romans 3:8, Paul denounced those who falsely accused him of promoting lawlessness: “And why not do evil that good may come?—as some people slanderously charge us with saying. Their condemnation is just.” These examples illustrate the persistent need for clarity on the relationship between law and grace.

The Apostle John also addressed antinomian tendencies, asserting that obedience to Jehovah’s commandments is a hallmark of genuine faith: “And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments. Whoever says ‘I know him’ but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him” (1 John 2:3-4). This statement affirms the continuity of moral obligations under the new covenant.

Antinomianism and Sanctification

Sanctification, the process by which believers are conformed to the image of Christ, involves obedience to Jehovah’s moral law. As Paul declared, “For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality” (1 Thessalonians 4:3). Such commands reflect Jehovah’s immutable standards of righteousness, which are not negated by grace but fulfilled through the Spirit-enabled obedience of believers.

The erroneous belief that obedience is unnecessary undermines the biblical teaching that faith without works is dead (James 2:26). While works do not merit salvation, they are evidence of genuine faith. As Jesus Himself proclaimed: “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15).

Conclusion on the Dangers of Antinomianism

Antinomianism poses a grave threat to sound doctrine and Christian living. By rejecting the moral law, this error distorts the gospel and leads to licentiousness. The Scriptures consistently affirm that grace and obedience are not mutually exclusive but are integrally related in Jehovah’s redemptive plan. Through faith in Christ, believers are justified apart from works of the law (Romans 3:28), yet they are also called to demonstrate their faith through obedience (Ephesians 2:10).

The harmony of law and grace reflects the unity of Jehovah’s character and purpose. Far from being contradictory, these principles work together to produce a people “zealous for good works” (Titus 2:14). Thus, the moral law remains an enduring standard for Christian conduct, upheld and fulfilled in the life of every faithful believer.

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About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).