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How Does Faith Establish the Law?
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeThe 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 Two)
'Ready Answer' by David C. GrabbePaul addresses a specific application of faith in Romans, focusing on faith in Jesus Christ's sacrifice as the means of atonement. He raises the question of whether trusting in Christ's sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins nullifies God's law. Paul answers firmly that this faith does not overthrow the law but actually upholds and confirms it. Justification by faith means we are aligned with God based on our belief in Christ's sacrifice, not on any personal worthiness or works. Whether Jew or Gentile, we cannot approach the Father on the basis of our deeds, as everyone falls short of His standard. This truth does not abolish God's standards; it only means that our efforts to live up to them will not justify us. The law remains valuable, revealing where we are out of alignment with God and guiding us to change course. Inherent in our belief that Christ's blood pays the death penalty is an acknowledgment that God's law has been broken, confirming that the law is still in effect. If we have this faith, forgiveness is available when we repent, which means turning from transgressing God's standards. Paul is aghast at the thought of continuing in sin, as it activates the death penalty, emphasizing that faith in Christ's sacrifice does not grant license to disregard God's law. God justifies us freely through belief in His Son's redemptive work, providing a clean slate to begin a spiritual relationship with Him and learn to live by His every word.
Leadership and Covenants (Part Nineteen)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The seven 'I will' promises Got made to Abraham were truly foundational promises, impacting the lives of multiple billions of people up to the present day.
Why Hebrews Was Written (Part Ten): Christianity's Claims
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughHere are twelve claims that the Father, the Son, and Their way of life make upon humanity, giving mankind no excuse for its failure to respond to God.
The Covenants, Grace, and Law (Part Twenty-Four)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe days, months, and times of Galatians 4:10 do not refer to God's Holy Days (which are not weak or beggarly), but to pagan rites the Galatians came out of.
The Covenants, Grace, and Law (Part Twenty-Seven)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe New Covenant, which writes God's law onto the heart, in no way does away with any aspect of the law. Works do not justify us, they sanctify us.
God Heals Today
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughThe doctrine of healing has always had a paramount position, declaring that through the stripes of Christ, we are forgiven and our bodies our healed.