God speaks to people either Law or Gospel . These two ways of divine speaking need to be distinguished but belong together and work together dynamically. It also requires other works far beyond the reach of reason, like true fear of God, true love of God, true prayer of God, true conviction that God hears prayer, and the expectation of God's help in death and all afflictions. Finally, it requires obedience to God in death and all afflictions, lest we try to flee these things or turn away when God imposes them. We must therefore observe this distinction with particular diligence lest we confuse the two doctrines and change the Gospel into law.
Christians can support themselves in their greatest temptations against the terrors of the law.
One or the other of these works is spoken of throughout Scripture. One part is the law which reveals, denounces, and condemns sin. The other part is the Gospel, that is, the promise of grace granted in Christ. The Law always ends up accusing us. For the law always accuses and terrifies consciences.