The ceremonial aspects of God's law, as originally given, were not part of the initial covenant with Israel but were added later as a penalty for transgression. These ceremonies, including sacrifices and various washings, were imposed on the Israelites for a specific period, until a time of reformation when a superior reality would replace them. The sacrificial system, though it foreshadowed the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, was temporary and inferior, only reminding of sin rather than defining it. Christ's sacrifice, being of greater spiritual and eternal effectiveness, was done once and set aside the need for ongoing physical offerings. The tabernacle, its furniture, and all associated ceremonies and rituals were types and symbols, standing in place until replaced by the more effective reality of Christ's blood. These ceremonial regulations, including meat and drink offerings, were legally enforced on the Israelites but only for a designated time. Clear statements in Scripture indicate that the imposition of these ceremonial requirements has been lifted, as the Holy Spirit now serves as the reminder of sin, replacing the physical ceremonies. In the context of the early church, the apostle Paul demonstrated a willingness to participate in ceremonial offerings when required, showing no reluctance or fear of compromising faith in Jesus Christ. This reflects an understanding among early Christians that keeping these ceremonies was not destructive unless relied upon for justification or salvation. The issue in the early church conferences was whether these ceremonial aspects were necessary for salvation, and it was determined that they were not physically required to be kept for that purpose. While the ceremonies are set aside from physical observance, they are not entirely done away with, as they may come back into force in a future context as intended by God. The church lacks civil authority to enforce laws as under the Old Covenant, but the spiritual application of God's laws continues, administered through the ministry of life by the power of the Holy Spirit, which vitalizes the Word of God in a way the letter of the ceremonial law could not.

God is indeed the author of ceremony, tradition, and customs. The New Covenant carries its own rites, forms, and ceremonies, which are essential to reinforce spiritual truths. These external rites, such as baptism and the observances of Passover, are exercises given to clarify and strengthen the inward realities of faith. They do not save, nor do they make one a Christian, but they hone skills and deepen understanding, much like practice in any learning process. Baptism has replaced circumcision as the external rite with profound spiritual ramifications for participation in the New Covenant. However, just as the Jews could discredit circumcision by their way of life, so too can one dishonor baptism through disobedience. If one does not observe the rites associated with the New Covenant, such as drinking the wine, eating the bread, washing one another's feet, and commemorating the Lord's death during Passover, it is considered sin. These ceremonies are not mere formalities; they are commanded and serve to point to spiritual truths within the heart that cannot be seen. True worship under the New Covenant, while involving laws, ceremonies, and rites, is fundamentally of the heart, from the inside out. The outward observances are intended to support the inward transformation, ensuring that obedience to these forms is grounded in love for God and service to others. Neglecting these rites, or believing they are done away with, leads to a loss of their benefits, as human nature tends to ignore what is not practiced. Over time, the meaning and significance of these ceremonies can be forgotten, resulting in a skewed perspective and a diminished understanding of God's purpose.

In the discussion of spiritual obligations, it becomes clear that the law keeping of certain individuals was focused on ceremony and ritual, rather than on the essence of God's commandments. Their adherence to these ceremonial practices was rooted in superstition, lacking the true spiritual depth required for justification. Paul emphasizes that such ritualistic observance does not align with the deeper intent of God's law, as it fails to transform the heart or build character. Instead, he instructs that true faith, guided by the Spirit, manifests in love, which is fundamentally expressed through keeping God's commandments, not merely through ceremonial acts. This distinction highlights that ceremonies, while part of tradition, do not hold the power to justify or save, as they do not effect a change in one's spiritual condition.