The covenant made with Moses (law) serves the covenant made with Abraham (promise) by affirming that righteousness comes only through faith in Jesus Christ.1 By showcasing God’s holiness and perfect standard of righteousness, the law reveals how man ought to live. It does not, however, have the power to enable obedience so that man can thereby secure life.2 As a result, it encourages all men to seek righteousness (a right standing with God) by means of faith in his promise.3
21 Is the law then contrary to the promises of God? Certainly not! For if a law had been given that could give life, then righteousness would indeed be by the law.