LAW — a rule of action. (1.) The Law of Nature is the
will of God as to human conduct, founded on the moral difference of things, and
discoverable by natural light (Rom. 1:20; 2:14, 15). This law binds all men at
all times. It is generally designated by the term conscience, or the capacity of
being influenced by the moral relations of things.
(2.) The Ceremonial Law prescribes under the Old Testament the rites and
ceremonies of worship. This law was obligatory only till Christ, of whom these
rites were typical, had finished his work (Heb. 7:9, 11; 10:1; Eph. 2:16). It
was fulfilled rather than abrogated by the gospel.
(3.) The Judicial Law, the law which directed the civil policy of the Hebrew
nation.
(4.) The Moral Law is the revealed will of God as to human conduct, binding on
all men to the end of time. It was promulgated at Sinai. It is perfect (Ps.
19:7), perpetual (Matt. 5:17, 18), holy (Rom. 7:12), good, spiritual (14), and
exceeding broad (Ps. 119:96). Although binding on all, we are not under it as a
covenant of works (Gal. 3:17). (See COMMANDMENTS.)
(5.) Positive Laws are precepts founded only on the will of God. They are right
because God commands them.
(6.) Moral positive laws are commanded by God because they are right.
Easton, M. G. (1996). Easton’s Bible dictionary. Oak Harbor, WA: Logos Research
Systems, Inc.