Last Sunday we spent some time sorting out what Paul and James are saying about Faith and Works. Though on the surface they may seem at odds with one another, when we dig deeper we see they are affirming the same things. Namely, true saving faith is a living, active power at work in our lives. And like a living growing tree, faith that is alive will produce the fruit of loving acts of compassion and mercy.
So, what does the Lord have to say to us about "Faith that Works"?
- To the "lawless" He says:
- Jesus can't be savior if he is not Lord!
- True saving faith changes you from the inside out, but it will get out!
- If you don't have real fruit that lasts, you don't have real faith that saves!
- Jesus can't be savior if he is not Lord!
- To the "Legalist" He says:
- You can't hide behind mechanical efforts at keeping rules and regulations.
- Such so-called "works" can be a way to keep God at arm's length.
- "Legal" works emphasize the external with no real life change!
- The "works" the Bible talks about are acts mercy, love, compassion to others in need!
- You can't hide behind mechanical efforts at keeping rules and regulations.
- To Both He says:
- Let the Gospel change you!
- Humbly receive the implanted word!
- Ask the Savior to give you a heart of mercy!
- Let the Gospel change you!
The change the Lord wants to see is always from the inside out! Change the heart and you will change the life.
The well wisher of your soul's happiness,
Pastor Tom
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1 comment:
Parabéns pelo seu blog! Deus abençoe seu ministério. (Your blog is very good! congratulations!)
Rev. Ronaldo Mendes- Pastor da 1ª igreja Presbiteriana Conservadora (Barra do Garças-MT - BRASIL)
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