Chapter V
CHAPTER V: THE FORM, OBJECT, AND FINAL EFFECT OF THE GOSPEL
The form of the Gospel consists in promises that are free.
§ 40. The form1 of the Gospel consists in promises which are and are termed free [gratuitae] with respect to their quality, universal with respect to their quantity. The apostle teaches that the promises of the Gospel are free when he declares that we are “justified by God’s grace freely (δωρεάν)” (Rom. 3:24). For we are justified on the basis of the Gospel, not on the basis of the Law. But now, we are justified freely; therefore the promises of the Gospel are free. But they are called free not with respect to Christ; the benefits offered in the Gospel cost Him dearly. In fact, “He has redeemed us not with gold or silver but with His precious blood” (1 Cor. 6:20; 1 Pet. 1:19). “He gave His life as a ransom for many” (Matt. 20:28). Rather, this is said with respect to us. Indeed, there is no merit of ours on account of which we would obtain reconciliation with God and the forgiveness of our sins. “You were sold freely, and you will be redeemed without silver” (Isa. 52:3). All the statements which testify that the grace of God is offered to us in the Gospel are to be assigned here. “For if it is from grace, it is no longer from works” (Rom. 11:6). In this way the promises of the Gospel are distinguished from those of the Law. In fact, the Law contains promises no less than does the Gospel, but those promises of the Law require our obedience of works and a perfect obedience which no man can accomplish; thus the promises of the Law become useless to us (Rom. 8:3). Also, because we cannot acquire the promises of the Law, the Gospel in particular is given the title of “promise” (Rom. 4:13; Gal. 3:18).