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How Does Faith Establish the Law? (Part Two)

'Ready Answer' by David C. Grabbe

Paul addresses a critical question in Romans regarding faith and its relationship to God's law: Does trusting in Christ's sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins nullify the law? His answer is resolute: Not only does this faith not overthrow the law, it actually upholds and confirms it. The faith in question is specifically belief in Christ's sacrifice as the means of atonement for sins. Since sins require atonement, a law defining right and wrong remains necessary, as sin is the transgression of that law, triggering the death penalty and the need for a Redeemer. Inherent in believing that Christ's blood pays this penalty is an acknowledgment that God's law has been broken. Thus, rather than nullifying the law through faith, we implicitly affirm that it is still in effect and recognize our need for salvation from the penalty of breaking it. Forgiveness is available through this faith when we repent, which means turning from transgressing God's standards. Paul is appalled at the idea of continuing in sin, of persisting in behaviors that activate the death penalty. Understanding this principle reveals that faith in Christ's redemptive work provides a clean slate to begin a spiritual relationship with God and learn to live by His standards, confirming the law's enduring relevance.

How Does Faith Establish the Law?

Sermonette by David C. Grabbe

The book of Romans is like a song in which some lyrics are popular but others are unfamiliar and hummed through, obscuring the overall message.

How Does Faith Establish the Law? (Part One)

'Ready Answer' by David C. Grabbe

In the journey of understanding Scripture, there is a caution from Peter that some of Paul's writings are hard to understand, leading to wrong impressions among those who do not grasp the full message. Peter urges diligence, emphasizing a robust and focused effort to be found by God in peace, without spot and blameless. This diligence is necessary after coming under Christ's blood, as we must submit to God to live up to the imputed spotlessness and blamelessness, a task requiring significant effort. Peter warns that misusing Paul's words can lead to destruction, a judgment from God on the disobedient. He also cautions against apostasy, describing a fall from steadfastness by being led away with the error of the lawless—those who disregard God's established standards. If we fail to correctly understand Paul's teachings, we risk falling into the error of those who ignore God's law, being untaught and unstable, and avoiding the narrow way that leads to eternal life. In the book of Romans, Paul's writings are often misunderstood. While some sections seem to suggest that God's law is no longer binding, particularly regarding the seventh-day Sabbath, Paul does not contradict Himself. He explores different sides of the issue, at times appearing to uphold the law and at others seeming to diminish its necessity. Yet, all of what He writes is true, and understanding requires attention to timing, context, and purpose. Without this, many miss the full meaning, selectively emphasizing parts that align with disregarding certain laws while becoming uneasy when Paul upholds God's standards.

Works of Faith (Part Two)

'Ready Answer' by Staff

God's spiritual law, encapsulated in the Ten Commandments and demonstrated in the life of Jesus Christ, reveals His way of life, which we must emulate.

What Kind of Faith is Required for Salvation?

Herbert W. Armstrong Booklet

Millions 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.

The Covenants, Grace, and Law (Part Twenty-Nine)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

A summary of the Covenants, Grace, and Law series, reiterating the differences in the Covenants and the respective places of grace and law in God's purpose.

The Covenants, Grace, and Law (Part Five)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Under both the Old and New Covenants, refusal to keep to keep God's Law severs the relationship. God's law protects us and brings us quality life.

The Covenants, Grace, and Law (Part Four)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Justification does not 'do away' with the law; it brings us into alignment with it, imputing the righteousness of Christ and giving access to God for sanctification.

God's Law Is Eternal

Sermon by Martin G. Collins

Many say that God's laws have been abolished, even though Jesus taught that until heaven and earth pass away, not one jot or tittle of the Law will disappear.

Acts (Part Fourteen)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

The people of Lystra and Derbe mistake Paul for Hermes and Barnabas for Zeus. When Paul convinces the crowds that he and Barnabas are not gods, they are rejected.

On Works

Sermon by John O. Reid

Works are necessary for a Christian, and have not been neutralized by grace. Good works serve as the evidence of faith; faith without works is dead.

Forms vs. Spirituality (Part 6)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Christ emphasizes that the internal, weightier matters, which change the heart, take precedence over external ceremonial concerns that don't change the heart.

Elements of Motivation (Part Four)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Because 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.

Acts (Part Fifteen)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

Acts 15 focuses upon the Council of Jerusalem, discussing the controversial subject of circumcision and its relationship to salvation.