Faith & Works; Paul & James: 3
Brad Reiches
Dec 3 2006 11:14PM
Brad Reiches
Dec 3 2006 11:14PM
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Monday, December 4, 2006
GodThoughtsWired!
GodThoughtsWired!
"Paul & James;
Faith & Works"
Faith & Works"
PART 3
What this means practically, is that we can now CHOOSE to, "Walk by the Spirit and not carry out the desires of the flesh" (Galatians 5:16). Isn't that exciting? A true Christian is one who has the Holy Spirit INSIDE of them, thereby having full access to the holiness of God, Himself! This CHOICE, and subsequent empowerment, is made available by God's grace, a free gift to anyone who would receive it! (see John 1:11-12; Ephesians 2:8; Titus 3:5).
When Paul wrestles with the faith/works issue, he is attempting to communicate that salvation cannot be obtained through obedience TO THE LAW! "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). And that,salvation can only come through Jesus Christ (see John 14:6; Acts 4:12). Nonetheless, it is also Paul that God uses to explain the purpose of grace, "We have received grace...to bring about the obedience of faith" (see Romans 1:5; 16:26). Indeed, it was actually Paul who said, "What matters is the keeping of the commandments of God?"
When Paul wrestles with the faith/works issue, he is attempting to communicate that salvation cannot be obtained through obedience TO THE LAW! "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). And that,salvation can only come through Jesus Christ (see John 14:6; Acts 4:12). Nonetheless, it is also Paul that God uses to explain the purpose of grace, "We have received grace...to bring about the obedience of faith" (see Romans 1:5; 16:26). Indeed, it was actually Paul who said, "What matters is the keeping of the commandments of God?"
PAUL NEVER NEGATES
THE IMPORTANCE OF WORKS!
Romans 6:15; 1 Corinthians 7:19
THE IMPORTANCE OF WORKS!
Romans 6:15; 1 Corinthians 7:19
What he did negate was the now useless reliance upon the "works of the Law." The "New Covenant" now renders "the works of the law" obsolete because of the finished work of Jesus Christ. Salvation is now freely (by grace)available through faith in Christ alone (see Acts 4:12; John 14:6). Indeed, let me clarify: Faith in Christ alone.
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