Antinomianism is the idea that man is not under law. True antinomianism is however impossible. Total antinomianism means death. It is impossible to be free in the truest sense of the word. As much as one may wish to be free from the laws of gravity he is inescapably subject to them. Antinomianism is an Utopian fantasy which is directly opposed to the scriptures.
What the scriptures teach is contrary to antinomianism inasmuch as it insists that man is subject to God and His law-order (regardless of how anyone may interpret Romans 6:15). The scriptures also teach that ultimate freedom is found in subjection to God’s law. Jesus himself said, in the New Testament, “my burden is easy and my yoke is light” What might be seen as a burden? Jesus’ requirements. His law.
Ultimately the opposition to God’s law is man’s law. Or more accurately stated, opposed to the creator’s law is the creature’s law. Man (as the creature) has a standard that is opposed to that of God. This is sin: when man fails to harmonize his standard with the ultimate standard.
Joy is found in practicing righteousness according to John. Righteousness is living up the standards proscribed in God’s law. Joy is to be found in conforming one’s life to God’s standard. As Christ himself declared, “those who love me will keep my commandments [my law]”.