Why is love more important than the law for Christians?

In the Christian life, love supersedes the law as the primary motivating force for ethical behavior. The New Testament teaches that love for God and others is the fulfillment of the law. Jesus Himself summarized the law and the prophets by commanding believers to love God and love their neighbors as themselves. This principle of love originates from the love Christ has imparted to believers, cultivated by the Holy Spirit in their hearts.

Rather than being driven by fear of punishment under the law, believers act out of genuine love for God. Where love exists, the burdens of the law diminish, enabling a joyful and spontaneous expression of righteousness. Thus, Christians do not merely avoid wrongdoing to escape curses; instead, they strive to honor God because of their love and gratitude for His grace. This love-driven approach to righteous living fulfills the intent of the law without being bound by its strictures.