By: Elowen Gray
After more than a decade of careful study and cross-referencing Scripture in multiple languages, author Abe Schellenberg is preparing to release a new edition of the New Testament that brings important clarity to famously debated topics in Christian theology, the meaning of “the law.”
For centuries, Christians have wrestled with questions surrounding the law in Scripture. When the Bible says the law was “done away with,” does that include the Ten Commandments? Are believers still called to obey God’s moral principles, or has grace replaced obedience entirely?
Schellenberg’s Definitive Law Bible seeks to untangle these questions by showing readers which law each passage is referring to: moral, ceremonial, civil, or sacrificial, so the Word of God can be read and understood in its proper context.
A Twelve-Year Mission for Biblical Understanding
The creation of this work was not a quick undertaking. Over a span of twelve years, Schellenberg compared different translations of the Bible in English, German, Spanish, and Dutch to identify a consistent gap. Generally, the versions he found use the term law without specifying which kind. As a result, some interpretations have led to differing views on whether all laws were abolished after Christ’s crucifixion, while others maintain that certain laws remain binding.
Schellenberg, after conducting an in-depth study, suggests that this misunderstanding can be addressed by differentiating between two key types of biblical law: the moral law and the ceremonial law. The moral law, symbolized by the Ten Commandments, is often regarded as eternal, reflecting God’s immutable character.
On the other hand, the ceremonial or Mosaic laws, which included sacrifices, rituals, and circumcision, are understood by some as a temporary provision that pointed to Christ’s death on the cross. While the moral law is viewed as applicable to every generation, the ceremonial laws are believed to have been fulfilled at the time of Christ’s mission.
Giving Context to Scripture
Schellenberg’s Definitive Law Bible provides brief notations within the text that identify which type of law is being referenced in each passage. This distinction helps readers to see, for example, that when Paul writes about being “justified by faith without the deeds of the law,” he is addressing ceremonial practices, not moral commandments. By restoring that context, the text becomes more coherent and less contradictory.
This method does not alter the message of Scripture but enhances it, helping readers understand the harmony between faith and obedience. It supports the idea that salvation through faith and adherence to God’s moral principles are not opposing concepts but complementary expressions of a sincere relationship with God.
A Work of Faith and Dedication
The project started off as a personal effort to gain deeper insight into the Scriptures, and it was later converted into an extensive work that could help others.
Schellenberg dedicated significant time and effort to studying and revising over the years, ensuring that his exegesis remained rooted in the primary meaning of the biblical text. He met with different scholars and religious leaders at different points of his research, but decided to wrap up the project alone in the end to retain its accuracy and intention.
This approach of his expresses a modest devotion to illuminating the text rather than that of being engaged in controversy. Rather than giving a new interpretation of the Bible, Schellenberg’s book can be looked at as a facilitator for a new, clearer road through the text that emphasizes being consistent rather than contradicting.
A Practical Guide for Modern Believers
The Definitive Law Bible is meant to be used for personal and academic purposes. It will be a study tool for those who want to solidify their comprehension of God’s Word and also a resource for church leaders, educators, and theology students who want to investigate the interconnectedness of law, grace, and faith.
By offering a contextual reading of the Bible, the book helps make it clear to the believers that faith is not just a matter of belief but also a matter of action. Moreover, it points out that the moral law isn’t outdated. It is still relevant and can implicitly shape the qualities of righteousness, mercy, and justice that characterize a life of faith.
Launch and Availability
Schellenberg’s Definitive Law Bible is set to launch soon and will be available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and several major Christian retail platforms, both in print and digital formats. The book is positioned as an accessible yet scholarly contribution to modern theology, one that bridges the gap between biblical interpretation and practical understanding.
By helping bring clarity to the concept of “the law,” this work invites believers to rediscover Scripture with fresh eyes and renewed confidence. It encourages readers to see that faith and obedience are complementary, but to coexist as guiding principles for a life rooted in truth and devotion.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational and educational purposes only. The views and interpretations presented in Abe Schellenberg’s Definitive Law Bible are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of any religious organization, denomination, or theological body. This work aims to clarify theological concepts related to biblical law; however, readers are encouraged to consult their own religious leaders or scholars for additional guidance on these matters. The book is not intended as a substitute for personal faith, spiritual practices, or professional theological advice. Always exercise personal discretion when engaging with religious or theological content.
