This paper, written by Matthew Kirk at Reformed Theological Seminary Charlotte for Dr. D. Blair Smith, examines Paul’s statements in Romans 10:5 and Galatians 3:12 and argues that Paul was not rejecting the Mosaic Covenant itself but its misuse by those who sought to justify themselves through works of the law.
Kirk shows that Paul and Moses shared a unified theology rooted in grace. Obedience was always meant to flow from faith, not to earn it. Through careful exegesis of Leviticus 18:5 (the one who does them shall live by them) and the surrounding texts, the paper demonstrates that Moses taught evangelical obedience, faithful living in response to Gods redeeming grace.
Pauls references to these verses in Romans and Galatians are not critiques of Moses but of those who twisted the law into a system of self righteousness. Both Paul and Moses affirm that the law is good and serves those redeemed by grace as a guide for faithful living. Obedience flows from salvation. It does not earn it.
Covenant Theology — Spring 2025