When a preacher uses the Law to “temper” the Gospel – so no one gets carried away and abuses their freedom – he is a legal preacher.
Yes, we affirm and preach the third use of the Law. The Law guides the Christian life. The Law is our “rule of gratitude.”
But the Gospel is what energizes the new obedience of the new man in Christ. The Gospel not only justifies us, but also sanctifies us.
That’s why the Bible grounds the imperatives of the Christian life in the indicatives of the Gospel.
That’s why understanding the Guilt-Grace-Gratitude shape of the Christian life is essential. For help on this, digest Romans. And then read and learn the Heidelberg Catechism.
And long live the Marrow brethren! Read more»
Tony Phelps on X | August 18, 2026.
RESOURCES
- Resources on the Law/Gospel Distinction
- Resources On The Marrow Controversy
- The Attraction Of Legal Preaching
- Subscribe to The Heidelblog!
- Download the HeidelApp on Apple App Store or Google Play
- Browse the Heidelshop!
- The Heidelblog Resource Page
- Heidelmedia Resources
- The Ecumenical Creeds
- The Reformed Confessions
- The Heidelberg Catechism
- The Heidelberg Catechism: A Historical, Theological, & Pastoral Commentary (Lexham Press, 2025)
- Recovering the Reformed Confession (Phillipsburg: P&R Publishing, 2008)
- Why I Am A Christian
- What Must A Christian Believe?
- Heidelblog Contributors
- Support Heidelmedia: use the donate button or send a check to
Heidelberg Reformation Association
1637 E. Valley Parkway #391
Escondido CA 92027
USA
The HRA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization
Heidelblog
The Heidelblog has been in publication since 2007. It is devoted to recovering the Reformed confession and to helping others discover Reformed theology, piety, and practice.
More by Heidelblog ›