“Abraham was, humanly speaking, the founder of our Jewish nation. What did he discover about being made right with God? If his good deeds had made him acceptable to God, he would have had something to boast about. But that was not God’s way. For the Scriptures tell us, “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.” When people work, their wages are not a gift, but something they have earned. But people are counted as righteous, not because of their work, but because of their faith in God who forgives sinners.”
Romans 4:1-5 NLT Genesis 15:6 is the passage Paul was referencing about Abraham. Abraham lived before the civil, ceremonial, and moral law was given to Moses. If keeping the law saves someone, then Abraham would have been lost. We know, however, from the last couple of days that this is not the case. It has always been about faith. Faith is trusting in what cannot be humanly seen or achieved. Hebrews 11:1 says “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Verse 6 of the same book and chapter says “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” Ephesians 2:8 says “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:”. Paul makes this same remark in verses 4 and 5 of today's reading. Salvation is a gift, not a wage. We earn wages. A gift is freely received, not achieved. “Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.” 2 Corinthians 9:15 KJV. Words cannot describe the gift of salvation. Are you a recipient of that salvation? I pray so! If not, simply call on Him and ask Him to save you. Now, shout for Joy because of our Father's lavish love!!!
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![]() Rev. Curtis Norris Archives
March 2020
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