Clear evidence that Romans to Philemon is our doctrine today

 

Clear evidence that Romans to Philemon is our doctrine today

Paul’s teachings in the Bible present a radical departure from the Jewish doctrine, emphasizing a new dispensation of grace rather than the Mosaic Law. His statement in 1 Corinthians 7:18-19 makes it clear that circumcision—once a requirement under the Old Covenant—is no longer significant under his gospel. Let me illustrate what I mean using the following scripture as example:

1Co 7:18-19 Is any man called being circumcised? let him not become uncircumcised. Is any called in uncircumcision? let him not be circumcised. [19] Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but the keeping of the commandments of God.

Paul’s statement in 1 Corinthians 7:18-19 is a powerful indication that his teachings were distinct from the Jewish law. Under the Mosaic Covenant, circumcision was a non-negotiable requirement for Jewish males. It was a sign of the covenant between God and Israel (Genesis 17:10-14), and failure to comply meant being cut off from the people and blessings of Israel. However, Paul boldly declares that circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, shifting the focus to keeping the commandments of God—but what commandments is he referring to?

Paul’s Grace Doctrine vs. Jewish Law

Paul was not teaching adherence to the Jewish law. Instead, he was operating under the dispensation of grace, a new revelation given to him by Christ (Galatians 1:11-12). His doctrine emphasized faith in Christ’s finished work rather than obedience to the Mosaic Law. This is why he repeatedly taught that salvation is by grace through faith, not by works of the law (Ephesians 2:8-9, Romans 3:28).

Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth

Paul’s teachings require us to rightly divide the Scriptures (2 Timothy 2:15). The Jewish doctrine focused on Israel’s earthly kingdom, the law, and national promises, whereas Paul’s doctrine revealed the mystery—the body of Christ, salvation by grace, and the heavenly calling of believers (Romans 16:25-26, Colossians 1:26-27). This distinction is crucial because mixing the two doctrines leads to confusion.

Key Differences Between Paul’s Doctrine and Jewish Law

Jewish Doctrine:

1. Circumcision required (Genesis 17:10-14),
2. Salvation tied to law (Deuteronomy 6:25),
3. Israel as the head of nations (Deuteronomy 28:13),
4. Earthly kingdom focus (Acts 1:6)

Paul’s Grace Doctrine:

1. Circumcision is nothing (1 Corinthians 7:19),
2. Salvation by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9),
3. No distinction between Jew and Gentile (Galatians 3:28),
4. Heavenly calling (Philippians 3:20)

Paul’s doctrine was not a continuation of Jewish teachings, but a new revelation given to him for the body of Christ. This is why we must rightly divide the Word and understand the dispensational shift from law to grace.

Understanding rightly dividing the Word is not just an intellectual pursuit—it is essential for grasping the proper context and interpretation of Scripture, 2Tim.2:15. Throughout history, misinterpretations have led to confusion, misplaced doctrines, and even entire religious divisions. The key to unlocking the truth lies in diligent study and a willingness to let Scripture interpret itself.

Paul’s doctrine of grace is not a continuation of Jewish teachings, but a new revelation meant specifically for the body of Christ. Recognizing this distinction allows us to see God’s progressive plan throughout Scripture—from Israel’s earthly promises to our heavenly calling in Christ. When we study with clarity, we avoid mixing law with grace, understanding instead that our salvation rests completely in the finished work of Christ.

Therefore, the responsibility falls on each believer to study the Word—not merely accepting teachings at face value but searching the Scriptures diligently (Acts 17:11). A well-grounded understanding of dispensational truth leads to spiritual maturity, proper interpretation, and an unwavering confidence in the gospel that saves and the doctrine that reveals our hope and God's will and plan for the Body of Christ.