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The Covenants, Grace, and Law (Part Twenty-Nine)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe concept of being doers of the law is central to understanding our responsibility before God. Romans 2:13 declares that the doers of the law shall be justified, emphasizing that obedience to God's commandments is integral to our spiritual standing. This principle harmonizes with the broader understanding that faith and works are not mutually exclusive but must operate together. As Galatians 2:16 clarifies, a man is not justified by works of the law except through faith in Christ, meaning that law-keeping holds value in justification only when paired with faith in Him. This truth aligns with the clear teachings of Jesus Christ, who in Matthew 5:17-19 states that He did not come to destroy the law but to fulfill it, affirming that not one jot or tittle shall pass from the law until all is fulfilled. He further teaches that whoever does and teaches these commandments shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, being doers of the law is not merely an act of obedience but a reflection of living faith, as James 2:20-24 reinforces that faith without works is dead. The doers of the law demonstrate their faith through their actions, showing that true belief in Christ is evidenced by adherence to His commandments.
The Covenants, Grace, and Law (Part Sixteen)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughDoers of the law are those who actively keep God's commandments rather than merely hearing them, and this obedience positions them to receive justification. The principle appears in the declaration that all who sin under the law will be judged by it, yet only those who do the law stand justified before God. This distinction arises because justification flows from grace through faith in Christ's sacrifice, which satisfies the law's penalty, while the doing of the law demonstrates faithful preparation for the Kingdom where everyone lives according to the same divine standards. The point develops through the recognition that knowledge of the law brings greater accountability, since those who possess it cannot claim exemption from its requirements. Gentiles without the written law may still show its work in their hearts by nature, yet they too face judgment according to what they know. In every case the law defines sin and supplies the path of right doing, so that obedience proves loyalty to God's government, produces godly character, and supplies the foundation for stable community life. This teaching connects to the larger message that the Old Testament was written with the New Testament church in mind. The law outlines the way of life that grace enables believers to walk, and failure to follow it can cause one to fall short of grace. Thus doers of the law are not earning salvation by works but showing, through consistent obedience, that they are cooperating with God to live the righteous life He has ordained.
Works of Faith (Part Two)
'Ready Answer' by StaffGod expects His people to become doers of the law rather than mere hearers, for not the hearers of the law are just in the sight of God, but the doers of the law will be justified. This requirement applies to the eternal, spiritual Ten Commandment law, which is holy, just, good, and perfect, converting the soul and producing attitudes, behaviors, and character that please God. The same apostle who declares that the law is spiritual also affirms that faith does not void the law but establishes it, and that boasting is excluded by the law of faith. This law of faith stands in contrast to the temporary ritual law of physical duties, which was symbolic, concerned with foods, drinks, washings, and fleshly ordinances, and never intended to perfect the conscience. Those who do the spiritual law demonstrate a commandment-keeping faith identical to the faith of Christ, a faith that works through love and finds God's commandments not burdensome. Such works perfect faith, as seen when Abraham's obedience made his faith complete and was imputed to him for righteousness, and when Rahab likewise was justified by works. God does not demand instant perfection but accepts the heartfelt effort and right attitude of those who strive to keep His law, imputing righteousness to them as they walk in the steps of Abraham's faith. This process allows believers to work out their salvation while relying on grace, ensuring that the doers of the law receive justification and eventually reflect the righteousness of Christ.
Do We Have 'Eternal Security'?
'Ready Answer' by Richard T. RitenbaughAre we 'once-saved, always-saved'? Once God grants us His grace, are we assured eternal life? The fallacies of the doctrine of 'eternal security' are exposed.
What Kind of Faith is Required for Salvation?
Herbert W. Armstrong BookletMillions who say they believe in Jesus Christ have no salvation at all because they trust in the wrong kind of faith. Saving faith is largely misunderstood.
Elements of Motivation (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughBecause we have been bought with an awesome price, we have no right to pervert our lives, but are obligated to look upon our bodies as vessels in His service.
Repentance and Righteousness (Part 2)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughMechanically keeping the law is only the beginning of righteousness. By emphasizing principle, Christ came to magnify, not to destroy God's law.
The Elements of Motivation (Part Four): Obligation
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughUnderstanding our obligation to Christ leads to a deeply held loyalty to Him. Our redemption should make us strive to please Him in every facet of life.
Poles Apart
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughSatan sends error into the world in pairs of opposites. If we hate one extreme, we may be drawn to just as hideous an opposite extreme.
The Weightier Matters (Part 4) : Faith and Fidelity
Article by StaffFaith and fidelity to God and His way of life should be a major part of our character. Here is what faith and fidelity are, how to recognize a lack of them.
Our Trusted Source of Truth (Part Two)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe veracity of the Scriptures is something we can take to the bank, in essence our only protection against the torrent of deception we face today.
Liberty or Independence?
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe approach of 'I want it my way' begins with license but then leads to chaos, and eventually the loss of liberty.
God's Workmanship (Part 1)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod's creation did not end with the physical creation or our election, but God continues to work, giving us the motivation and the power to do His will.
Dealing With Change (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeThose who call Christ 'Lord, Lord' yet fail to do what He says face ruin when disaster strikes, while those who do what He says will weather the storm.
Building on the Foundation
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughConsiderable effort must be expended to find suitable bedrock for use as a foundation. We must build on the proper foundation; our bedrock is Jesus Christ.
God the Father (Part 3)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe Father's purpose is to make us Christ-like, abounding in godly love. God is able to turn horrendous and gruesome circumstances into ultimate blessings.
Use God's Word as a Mirror
Sermonette by Bill CherryThe mirror metaphor in James 1:23 suggests that if we honestly look into God's word, we should see the state of our godly deeds reflected.