Confusion occurs when we try to utilize scripture apart from other scripture. This common practice is called "proof texting". Proof texting allows you to say anything you want with scripture. It allows you to win the argument of the hour.
Most Christians argue that the Law does not apply to the modern believer. The Law was for the Jew but grace is for us. You cannot argue this point from scripture without consistently piting one scriptural reality against another.
In regard to the law, Paul admonished the Galatians not to go back "under" the law. This same apostle, however, also said to the Romans that we should "uphold" the Law. How can this be? Jesus said he did not come to abolish the Law but to fulfill it and "If you love me you will keep my commandments". But I thought I was saved by faith in God's promises and not by works lest any man should boast. Yet we know that, James says very forcefully, "faith without deeds is dead".
When we pluck these scriptures and use them independent of their context, they seem contradictory. It is only by interpreting them within the context in which they were written that we can understand the writer's intent. Pulling scriptures out of their context is like discecting a frog...you can't do it without killing the poor thing. Some examples are as follows.
"...this baptism saves you." 1 Peter 3:21
Obviously baptism is what saves and is essential.
"...saved by faith" Romans 3:22
No, it is only faith that is essential.
"...You see that a person is justified by what he does and not by faith alone." James 2:24
No, works justify us as much as faith.
"...written code...nailed to the cross" Col 2:14
No, the law was against us, no works...just grace.
"...law good, spiritual, definition of God's will" Rom 7:12
No, the law is good and of God.
"...all who rely on observing the law are under a curse" Gal 3:10
But we will be cursed if we make an effort to observe or obey the law.
"...uphold the law" Rom 3:31
No, we are told to obey the law.
"...no condemnation in Christ" Rom 8:1
No, we are free from law and sin.
"...anyone who claims to be without sin is a liar."1 John1:8
No, we still can and do sin.
"...to continue in sin crucifies Christ all over again... no more forgiveness" Heb 6:6
If you sin after your saved you may as well give up.
One of the Biblical marks of inspiration is that, when used properly, the Bible does not contradict itself. When we interpret scripture based upon our passions rather than the context, we rob it of its power to actually teach us anything. We simply "rehearse" what we wanted to believe in the first place. This is rather a waste of time.
When we use scripture this way to "prove" existing doctrine, we become as guilty as Satan was when he used scripture to tempt Jesus. He used scripture for his own purposes and men do this same thing all the time. When we interpret scripture we must not destroy through sloppiness what God has given us by divine inspiration. All scripture is profitable and useful. 2 Timothy 3:16 ...if used correctly. 2 Peter 3:15.
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