November 28, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Romans Chapter 4

¹ What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found?

² For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God.

³ For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.

⁴ Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt.

⁵ But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.

⁶ Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works,

⁷ Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered.

⁸ Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin.

⁹ Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcision also? for we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness.

¹⁰ How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision.

¹¹ And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also:

¹² And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised.

¹³ For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith.

¹⁴ For if they which are of the law be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect:

¹⁵ Because the law worketh wrath: for where no law is, there is no transgression.

¹⁶ Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all,

¹⁷ (As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, even God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were.

¹⁸ Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations, according to that which was spoken, So shall thy seed be.

¹⁹ And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sarah’s womb:

²⁰ He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God;

²¹ And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.

²² And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness.

²³ Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him;

²⁴ But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead;

²⁵ Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Romans Chapter 4 is dedicated to the central role of faith for righteousness before God and uses Abraham as a paradigmatic example. Paul argues that Abraham’s justification did not occur through the law or through works, but solely through his faith. This chapter illustrates that faith is universal and includes both Jews and Gentiles. Paul shows that Abraham is not only the father of Israel but also of all believers who accept God’s promises through faith.

Commentary

Abraham as a Model of Faith (Verses 1–5): Paul begins by stating that Abraham was not justified by works. Instead, his faith was credited to him as righteousness. This contradicts the idea that righteousness is a merit earned by works and underscores that it comes solely by grace through faith. Paul emphasizes that faith in the God who justifies the wicked is the key to righteousness.

David and the Blessedness of the Forgiven (Verses 6–8): Paul quotes David to show that the forgiveness of sins is an act of grace and does not depend on works. The blessedness that David describes consists in God not counting a person’s sins against them. This emphasizes that righteousness is a gift from God and not attained through human effort.

Righteousness Independent of Circumcision (Verses 9–12): Paul emphasizes that Abraham received the righteousness of faith before he was circumcised. Circumcision was merely a sign and a seal of this righteousness that he already had by faith. Thus, Abraham becomes the father of all who believe—both the circumcised and the uncircumcised. This underscores the universality of faith.

The Promise and Faith (Verses 13–17): Paul makes it clear that the promise to make Abraham the heir of the world was given not through the law but through faith. The law brings wrath and transgression, while faith secures the promise. Abraham’s faith shows that God’s promises are based on grace and apply to all who share Abraham’s faith.

Abraham’s Unwavering Faith (Verses 18–22): Paul praises Abraham’s faith, which did not waver despite the apparent impossibility of the promise to become the father of many nations. Abraham trusted that God has the power to fulfill His promises. Therefore, his faith was credited to him as righteousness.

The Significance for Believers (Verses 23–25): Paul concludes by stating that Abraham’s faith is not only valid for him but also serves as an example for us. Righteousness is credited to us when we believe in the One who raised Jesus from the dead. The resurrection of Jesus is the decisive proof of our justification and the fulfillment of God’s promise.

Summary

Romans Chapter 4 highlights the central role of faith for righteousness, independent of works, the law, or circumcision. Abraham is portrayed as the father of faith, whose righteousness was founded solely on his faith in God’s promises. Paul demonstrates that this righteousness applies not only to Jews but to all believers. God’s promise is based on grace and is received through faith. This chapter encourages trusting in God’s power and faithfulness, as Abraham did, and shows that the resurrection of Jesus is the foundation of our justification.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/28-11-2024-romans-chapter-4-believe-his-prophets/

9.4 Rejecting the Source of Life
Rejecting the Source of Life: The Loss Through Unbelief

The tragic rejection of Jesus, the source of life, reveals the profound gap between God’s offer of salvation and the human response. John describes this with poignant clarity: although Jesus is the true light and the world was created through Him, many did not recognize and rejected Him. This account challenges us to reflect on our own attitude towards Christ and His word.

1. THE LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS

   • What it means: Jesus, the light of the world, came to drive out the darkness of sin and unbelief. Yet the darkness—symbolic of sin, pride, and the blindness of people—did not “overcome” Him (John 1:5).

   • Lesson for us: Even today, there is a danger that we may reject the light if our hearts remain closed or if we trust more in our own insights than in God’s revelation.

2. REJECTION BY HIS OWN

   • What it means: Jesus was rejected by His own people, the Jews, even though they were waiting for the Messiah. This rejection was not only an intellectual misunderstanding but often a conscious decision not to accept His authority and His word.

   • Lesson for us: The rejection of Jesus shows how strongly our pride and prejudices can prevent us from recognizing and accepting God’s truth. We are called to humble ourselves and open our hearts to His light.

3. DOUBT AS AN OBSTACLE

   • What it means: The modern humanistic approach, which questions everything and begins with doubt, can become an obstacle to accepting the truth of the Bible and the message of Christ. Doubts about God’s word and its truthfulness often lead to rejection rather than deepened faith.

   • Lesson for us: While honest questions are permitted in the faith process, we must not allow doubts to dominate us and lead us away from God. Faith is not merely an intellectual exercise but a trusting acceptance of God’s revelation.

4. WARNING AGAINST SPIRITUAL LETHARGY

   • What it means: Paul’s warning in Hebrews 10:35 not to throw away our confidence reminds us that we are also in danger of rejecting the light if we become complacent in our faith or allow ourselves to be led by worldly influences.

   • Lesson for us: Faith must be nurtured through listening to God’s word, prayer, and fellowship with other believers. Without a living relationship with Jesus, we are at risk of gradually rejecting the truth, just like the people in Jesus’ time.

5. THE TRAGEDY OF REJECTION

   • What it means: The rejection of Jesus is one of the greatest tragedies of humanity, as it means rejecting life itself. However, this rejection is not final: God’s grace remains open to all who repent and wish to accept Jesus.

   • Lesson for us: We must not forget that Jesus continued to love and gave His life for humanity despite rejection. His patience and grace are a call for us to trust Him and accept His message.

Conclusion: DO NOT REJECT CHRIST, BUT ACCEPT HIM IN FAITH
The story of Jesus’ rejection is a sobering reminder of how easily people can reject the light—then as now. It invites us to examine our own relationship with Jesus: Are we ready to accept His truth, even when it contradicts our expectations? Are we open to His light, or do we let pride and doubts guide us?
The good news is that the light continues to shine, and everyone is invited to accept it. When we accept Jesus in faith, we experience life, hope, and redemption. His patience and love remain even amidst rejection.

Read Numbers 13:23–33. What was the difference between the two reports that the spies brought back about Canaan?

The reports of the spies about the land of Canaan show a fundamental difference in perspective and trust in God’s promises. While the majority saw the challenge through a human lens, Joshua and Caleb looked through the eyes of faith.

1. THE MAJORITY’S PERSPECTIVE: FEAR AND DOUBT

   • What they saw: Ten spies focused on the apparent obstacles in the land: the huge cities, the powerful armies, and the size of the inhabitants. They compared these threats to their own weakness and history as slaves and concluded that conquering the land was impossible.

   • Their attitude: Their report was characterized by fear and doubt in God’s promises. They saw reality through a human perspective and forgot that God, who had led them out of Egypt, had promised to give them the land.

   • Lesson: This attitude shows how easily doubts and unbelief can overshadow God’s promises when we focus on our own limitations.

2. JOSHUA AND CALEB’S PERSPECTIVE: FAITH AND TRUST

   • What they saw: Joshua and Caleb saw the same challenges but remembered God’s promise that He would give the land into their hands. They did not look at the strength of the enemies but at the greatness of God.

   • Their attitude: Their report was characterized by trust in God’s power and faithfulness. They emphasized that the land was good and that God Himself would go with them to defeat the enemies.

   • Lesson: Joshua and Caleb show that faith means looking beyond the visible circumstances and trusting in God’s promises.

3. THE CORE DIFFERENCE: FAITH VS. UNBELIEF

   • The Majority: Acted out of fear, relied on human calculations, and ignored God’s power. Their report was pessimistic and led to discouragement among the Israelites.

   • Joshua and Caleb: Trusted in God’s promises and saw the challenges as an opportunity to experience God’s faithfulness and power. Their report was encouraging and full of hope.

4. THE CONSEQUENCES: DOUBT LEADS TO DEFEAT

   • **The majority’s doubts led to rebellion and a tragic lack of trust in God’s word. The Israelites refused to enter the promised land, ultimately resulting in 40 years of punishment in the wilderness.

   • **Joshua and Caleb’s confidence was eventually rewarded. They were the only ones from the first generation allowed to enter the promised land.

Conclusion: LIVING A LIFE OF FAITH
The reports of the spies in Numbers 13 show how crucial our perspective is when facing challenges. Fear and doubt lead to discouragement and inaction, while faith and trust in God’s promises encourage us to move forward boldly.

The lesson for our lives: We can choose whether to view our circumstances through the lens of fear or faith. If we rely on God’s faithfulness and power, we can overcome even the greatest challenges—not by our own strength but by His.

How can we avoid making the same mistake here? And conversely, how can we avoid acting presumptuously in a foolish way, believing that we are fulfilling God’s will and therefore cannot fail?

To prevent ourselves from acting like the Israelites in Kadesh-Barnea—by rejecting God’s promises out of fear or doubt—we must learn to trust in God’s word and seek His guidance. At the same time, it is important not to act presumptuously but to humbly seek God’s will.

1. TRUST IN GOD’S WORD AND PROMISES

   • Studying God’s word: The better we know God’s promises, the more we can trust them. Regular Bible study strengthens our faith and helps us understand God’s character.

   • Remembering God’s faithfulness: By remembering how God has been faithful in the past—both in the Bible and in our own lives—we can gain courage to trust His promises for the future.

   • Application: When facing challenges, we should consciously rely on God’s promises and consider them in our decisions.

2. PRAYER AND SEEKING GOD’S GUIDANCE

   • Prioritizing prayer: Before acting, we should seek God in prayer to receive His wisdom and guidance (James 1:5).

   • Openness to God’s will: We should be willing to accept God’s answer, even if it does not align with our own expectations.

   • Application: A continuous prayer life helps us remain sensitive to God’s guidance and not act rashly.

3. FELLOWSHIP AND WISE COUNSEL

   • Seeking advice: Wisdom is found in fellowship with other believers. Through sharing and discussion, we can gain clarity (Proverbs 15:22).

   • Showing humility: Being open to correction and different perspectives prevents us from pride and presumption.

   • Application: Before making important decisions, we should seek counsel from trusted spiritual leaders or friends.

4. EXAMINING OUR OWN MOTIVES

   • Self-reflection: We should question our motives. Are we acting out of pride, fear, or personal ambition?

   • Aligning with God’s glory: Our goal should be to glorify God, not ourselves (1 Corinthians 10:31).

   • Application: Regular self-examination can help us recognize and correct selfish or wrong motives.

5. PATIENCE AND WAITING FOR GOD’S TIMING

   • Not acting hastily: Instead of acting immediately, we should trust God’s timing. Impatience can lead to poor decisions.

   • Seeking signs of confirmation: Sometimes God confirms His will through circumstances or additional signs.

   • Application: Patient waiting shows trust in God’s wisdom and plan.

6. DISTINGUISHING BETWEEN FAITH AND PRESUMPTION

   • Faith is based on God’s word: True faith is founded on God’s promises, not on our desires or ideas.

   • Presumption ignores God’s guidance: When we pursue our plans without God’s confirmation, we act presumptuously.

   • Application: We should ensure that our steps align with biblical principles and do not contradict God’s revealed truth.

7. AWARENESS OF FEAR AND DOUBT

   • Recognizing fear: Fear can weaken our faith and lead us to doubt God’s promises.

   • Strengthening faith: Through prayer, God’s word, and fellowship, we can strengthen our faith and overcome fear.

   • Application: When we feel anxious or uncertain, we should bring these feelings to God and ask for strength.

Conclusion
To avoid the mistake of the Israelites, we should:
• Trust in God’s promises, even when circumstances seem difficult.
• Remain humble and examine our own motives to avoid acting presumptuously.
• Seek God’s guidance through prayer, His word, and fellowship with other believers.
• Be patient and trust in God’s timing instead of acting hastily.
By applying these principles in our daily lives, we can find a balance between bold faith and humble dependence on God. This way, we avoid both the error of unbelief and the danger of presumption.

Rejecting Jesus, the source of life, shows how important it is to open our hearts and minds to God’s truth. This lesson has a direct connection to our daily lives and faith, as it calls us to live consciously in God’s light and accept His guidance.

1. TRUST IN GOD’S WORD RATHER THAN HUMAN PERSPECTIVES

   • Daily relevance: Often we face decisions or challenges where the human perspective overwhelms us. Like the majority of spies in Numbers 13, we tend to focus on the difficulties and forget God’s promises.

   • Faith practice: We are invited to consciously place our trust in God’s word and His assurances. This gives us the strength to move forward boldly, even when circumstances seem difficult.

2. A ATTITUDE OF HUMILITY RATHER THAN PRIDE AND PREJUDICE

   • Daily relevance: Pride, prejudice, or self-sufficiency can prevent us from recognizing God’s truth. As Jesus’ own people showed in rejecting Him, cultural, personal, or intellectual barriers can distance us from God.

   • Faith practice: Humility is key to opening our hearts to God’s light. By consciously choosing His guidance, we can avoid the temptation to place our own opinions or doubts above God’s truth.

3. OVERCOMING FEAR THROUGH FAITH

   • Daily relevance: Fear and doubt can weaken our faith, especially in challenging life situations. This fear is similar to the Israelites’ fear of the giants in the land of Canaan.

   • Faith practice: Through prayer, listening to God’s word, and fellowship with believers, we can strengthen our faith and overcome fears. Bold action arises when we trust in God’s power rather than our own abilities.

4. NURTURING FAITH THROUGH A LIVING RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS

   • Daily relevance: Our faith can easily grow cold if we do not actively engage with God’s word and prayer. Without this living relationship, we risk a gradual departure from the light.

   • Faith practice: Regular times of prayer, Bible reading, and fellowship with other Christians help us keep our faith alive and stay faithful to the light of Jesus.

5. WARNING AGAINST DOUBT AND LETHARGY

   • Daily relevance: Doubt and spiritual lethargy can lead us to question or ignore God’s truth and guidance. This often happens unnoticed through the habituation to worldly thinking.

   • Faith practice: We should regularly ask ourselves whether we are listening to God’s word or being led by worldly influences. A conscious decision to choose the light helps us remain spiritually vigilant.

6. DO NOT REJECT JESUS, BUT ACCEPT HIM IN FAITH

   • Daily relevance: Like the people in Jesus’ time, we may also tend to reject Him when His truth contradicts our expectations or brings discomfort.

   • Faith practice: We should be willing to continuously align our lives with Jesus’ words, even when this requires sacrifices or changes. His promises lead us to a life of abundance.

Conclusion: LEADING A CONSCIOUS LIFE IN THE LIGHT
The lesson of rejecting Jesus reminds us how crucial our response to God’s truth is. In daily life, this means:
• Trust Rather Than Fear: Building courage on God’s promises, even when circumstances seem difficult.
• Humility Rather Than Pride: Accepting God’s truth, even when it contradicts our expectations.
• Faith Maintenance: Maintaining a living relationship with Jesus through prayer, Bible study, and fellowship.
By consciously choosing the light of Jesus, we not only find hope and guidance in daily life but also the joy and fullness that only He can provide.

Trust in God’s light, even amid darkness, for in Him we find life, hope, and guidance.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-9-the-source-of-life-9-4-rejecting-the-source-of-life-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

November 27, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Romans Chapter 3

¹ What advantage then hath the Jew? or what profit is there of circumcision?

² Much every way: chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God.

³ For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect?

⁴ God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.

⁵ But if our unrighteousness commend the righteousness of God, what shall we say? Is God unrighteous who taketh vengeance? (I speak as a man)

⁶ God forbid: for then how shall God judge the world?

⁷ For if the truth of God hath more abounded through my lie unto his glory; why yet am I also judged as a sinner?

⁸ And not rather, (as we be slanderously reported, and as some affirm that we say,) Let us do evil, that good may come? whose damnation is just.

⁹ What then? are we better than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin;

¹⁰ As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:

¹¹ There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God.

¹² They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.

¹³ Their throat is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips:

¹⁴ Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness:

¹⁵ Their feet are swift to shed blood:

¹⁶ Destruction and misery are in their ways:

¹⁷ And the way of peace have they not known:

¹⁸ There is no fear of God before their eyes.

¹⁹ Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God.

²⁰ Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.

²¹ But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;

²² Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:

²³ For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

²⁴ Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:

²⁵ Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;

²⁶ To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.

²⁷ Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith.

²⁸ Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.

²⁹ Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also:

³⁰ Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith.

³¹ Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Romans Chapter 3 is a central chapter in Paul’s letter that addresses the universal sinfulness of humanity and the possibility of justification through faith in Jesus Christ. After outlining in the previous chapters the role of the law and the injustice of all people, both among Jews and Gentiles, Paul now turns to the question of how people can be justified before God. This chapter emphasizes the immutability of God’s faithfulness and the necessity of grace to attain salvation. Paul argues that neither circumcision nor adherence to the law is sufficient, but that justification occurs solely through faith.

Commentary

God’s Unchanging Faithfulness (Verses 1–8): Paul begins by addressing the advantage of the Jews and the usefulness of circumcision. He confirms that there is a great advantage, namely trusting in what God has spoken. However, he criticizes those who, despite their knowledge and trust, do not believe in God. Paul emphasizes that God’s righteousness is not nullified by human unbelief. He underscores that God is faithful and that all people would ultimately stand as liars if God’s truth did not endure. This highlights the necessity of God’s righteousness to maintain the balance between God’s faithfulness and human sin.

The Guilt of All before God (Verses 9–20): In this section, Paul clarifies that both Jews and Gentiles are under sin. He quotes from the Scriptures to show that no one is righteous, no one understands, no one seeks God, and no one does good. This universal sinfulness makes it clear that all people are guilty before God. Paul argues that the law serves to recognize sin, but no one can be justified before God by the works of the law. This leads to the realization that human effort is insufficient to bridge the separation between God and man.

Justification by Faith Alone (Verses 21–31): Paul presents the central doctrine of justification by faith. He explains that God’s righteousness is revealed through the law and the prophets, but this righteousness comes through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. Regardless of gender or origin, all sinners lack the glory they should have before God. Nevertheless, they are justified by God’s grace and the redemption through Jesus Christ, without merit. Paul emphasizes that God presented Jesus as a propitiatory sacrifice to fulfill the righteousness that is required before God by forgiving sin. He refutes the claim that faith abolishes the law and explains that faith confirms the law by enabling righteousness apart from the works of the law.

Summary

Romans Chapter 3 addresses the fundamental question of justification before God in light of the universal sinfulness of humanity. Paul emphasizes that neither belonging to the people of Israel nor following the law is sufficient to be righteous before God. Instead, justification is possible solely through faith in Jesus Christ. This chapter underscores God’s unchanging faithfulness and the necessity of His grace to overcome the separation between God and man. Paul demonstrates that all people, regardless of their background, are under sin and therefore depend on God’s grace to be justified. The central message is that faith in Christ is the only path to salvation, which does not abolish the law but affirms its true meaning and necessity.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/27-11-2024-romans-chapter-3-believe-his-prophets/

9.3 Believing and New Birth
Faith and Rebirth: The Way to Becoming God’s Child

Read John 1:12–13. What steps are described here that are needed to become a Christian?

John 1:12–13 describes the miraculous process of rebirth and becoming children of God, encompassing two crucial steps: our actions in faith and God’s transforming power. This passage shows that being a Christian is a collaboration between human faith and divine initiative.

1. The Human Aspect: Receiving Jesus

• What It Means: John describes that the first step is to receive Jesus, which is equated with believing in him. This is a conscious decision to accept Jesus as Savior and Lord. This act of faith means relying on Jesus and acknowledging his sacrifice and lordship.

• Application: Everyone is invited to take this step. It requires openness and the willingness to let Christ’s light penetrate our lives and guide us.

2. The Divine Aspect: Being Born of God

• What It Means: While faith is our decision, rebirth is God’s work. Only He can renew our hearts and make us His children. John emphasizes that this does not happen through human will but solely through God.

• Application: Our faith opens the door, but the change—the new life that makes us children of God—is a miracle of grace, working through the Holy Spirit. This rebirth gives us a new identity and a deep relationship with God.

3. Faith as a Gift from God

• What It Means: John and other biblical authors like Paul (Romans 10:17) show that faith itself is a gift from God. The Holy Spirit works in our hearts, convinces us of the truth, and gives us the ability to trust Jesus.

• Application: This understanding leads us to humility, recognizing that even our faith is not our own work. We can thank God for opening the way to Him and giving us the strength to believe.

4. The Role of the Word and the Holy Spirit

• What It Means: Faith arises from hearing God’s word. Reading the Bible and reflecting on Jesus’ words lead us to recognize and trust him. Simultaneously, it is the Holy Spirit who convicts, teaches, and reveals the truth to us.

• Application: To strengthen our faith, we must regularly engage with God’s word. It is the foundation for our relationship with Jesus, and the Holy Spirit illuminates our understanding.

Conclusion: A New Life Through Faith and Rebirth

John 1:12–13 shows that becoming a Christian is both a human decision and a divine miracle. We accept Jesus by faith, and God renews us by making us His children. This is not just a legal status but a profound transformation—a new life in Christ.

This truth reminds us that our salvation and faith completely depend on God’s grace. At the same time, it invites us to actively believe, accept the light, and grow in God’s word. Thus, we experience the joy and privilege of living as children of God.

Read Romans 8:16. What principle about redemption in Jesus is found here?

Romans 8:16 says: “The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.” This verse reveals a central principle of redemption: the assurance of God’s sonship is conveyed through the work of the Holy Spirit in our hearts.

1. Redemption is the Work of the Holy Spirit

• What It Means: The Holy Spirit confirms to us that through faith in Jesus Christ, we belong to God’s family. This is not merely an emotional conviction but a deep, divine affirmation that we are redeemed and now children of God.

• Meaning: Our redemption does not depend on our feelings, works, or achievements but solely on God’s grace and the testimony of the Spirit within us.

2. Faith as a Gift from God

• What It Means: Biblical faith begins not with human effort or rational proof but as a gift from God. Through faith, we open our hearts to the Holy Spirit, who convicts, comforts, and deepens our understanding.

• Meaning: The Holy Spirit gives us the faith that enables us to accept and trust God’s promises. This reminds us that our relationship with God is entirely based on His grace.

3. The Assurance of God’s Sonship

• What It Means: The Holy Spirit works within us to assure us that we are God’s children. This assurance gives us a deep sense of identity, security, and belonging. It is the foundation for a life of peace, joy, and trust in God’s guidance.

• Meaning: This sonship is not something we can earn; it is a result of redemption through Jesus Christ, testified by the Spirit who lives in us.

4. A Growing Faith

• What It Means: Faith is the foundation of our relationship with God, and through the Holy Spirit, it grows. While faith is a gift from God, its full potential unfolds as we remain in God’s word and open ourselves to the Spirit’s work.

• Meaning: Faith is not static; it develops through hearing the Spirit, studying the Scriptures, and living daily with God.

Conclusion: Redemption Through the Assurance of the Spirit

Romans 8:16 shows that the foundation of our redemption lies not within ourselves but in the testimony of the Holy Spirit. He assures us that we are God’s children, granting us peace and certainty. This truth provides a solid foundation for our faith and identity in Christ.

Biblical faith begins with this gift from God and grows as we open ourselves to the Holy Spirit and live in the grace and truth of Jesus. Thus, we experience not only the joy of being God’s children but also the strength to live as His children in the world.

If Someone Asked You What Your Faith is Based On, What Would You Answer?

My faith is based on Jesus Christ and God’s revelation in the Bible. It is founded on the assurance that God loves me, saves me through Jesus, and gives me hope and purpose—for both this life and eternity.

1. God’s Love and Grace

• My Faith Begins: With the recognition that God loves me unconditionally (John 3:16). This love was made visible through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, granting me forgiveness and new life.

• Foundation: This grace is unmerited and a gift that I accept by faith (Ephesians 2:8–9).

2. The Promises of the Bible

• My Faith is Based On: The Bible as God’s word. It is a source of truth that reveals who God is, what He has done, and what He desires for my life (2 Timothy 3:16–17).

• Foundation: By reading the Bible, I find guidance, comfort, and encouragement for my daily life.

3. The Work of the Holy Spirit

• My Faith is Nourished: By the Holy Spirit, who works in my life, comforts, teaches, and convicts me (John 14:26; Romans 8:16).

• Foundation: The Holy Spirit gives me the assurance that God is real and strengthens my faith.

4. Personal Experiences

• I Have Experienced: God’s presence and guidance in my life. In difficult times, He has given me peace and strength, and His promises have proven true.

• Foundation: These experiences deepen my faith and confirm the truths of the Bible.

5. The Hope of Eternity

• My Faith Gives Me: The assurance that this life is not the end. I live in the hope of eternal life and fellowship with God (John 14:1–3).

• Foundation: This hope gives me strength to hold on even in difficult moments and to view life from an eternal perspective.

Conclusion: A Faith That Is Supported

My faith is not based on myself or my achievements but on God’s faithfulness, His love, the Bible, and the work of the Holy Spirit. It gives me strength, hope, and a firm foundation in life—and the assurance that God is always with me.

How Do the Teachings on Faith and Rebirth from John 1:12–13 and Romans 8:16 Directly and Profoundly Connect to Our Daily Life and Faith?

The teachings on faith and rebirth from John 1:12–13 and Romans 8:16 have a direct and profound connection to our daily lives and faith. They show how our faith life is shaped and how these spiritual truths influence our everyday experiences.

1. New Identity as God’s Children

• Everyday Relevance: Rebirth gives us a new identity. We are no longer defined by our past, mistakes, or achievements but by our relationship with God as His beloved children. This identity provides us with security and strength, even in difficult life situations.

• Faith Perspective: As children of God, we can live with confidence because we know that God is our Father who loves, guides, and provides for us.

2. Faith as a Daily Decision

• Everyday Relevance: Faith is not just a one-time event but a daily decision to trust and follow Jesus. This attitude affects how we face challenges, fears, or doubts.

• Faith Perspective: Our faith is nurtured by the Holy Spirit, who helps us accept Jesus’ words and align our lives accordingly.

3. The Role of the Holy Spirit

• Everyday Relevance: The Holy Spirit works in our daily lives by guiding, comforting, and reminding us of our sonship. This work gives us peace and strength, even in life’s challenges.

• Faith Perspective: We can listen to the Holy Spirit’s voice, which provides us with direction, encouragement, and continuously leads us to Jesus.

4. The Word of God as the Foundation

• Everyday Relevance: The Word of God is our daily spiritual nourishment. By reading the Bible, we find wisdom, comfort, and guidance for our decisions and interactions with others.

• Faith Perspective: Staying in God’s word strengthens our faith and helps us remain in the truth.

5. A Humble Attitude

• Everyday Relevance: Understanding that faith is a gift from God guards us against pride and self-exaltation. It reminds us that everything we are and have comes from God’s grace.

• Faith Perspective: This humility leads us to rely on God’s guidance and be thankful for His gifts.

6. A Life Full of Hope

• Everyday Relevance: The assurance that we are children of God and have eternal hope gives us the strength to face life’s challenges with calmness and trust.

• Faith Perspective: This hope motivates us to consciously shape our lives and deepen our relationship with God.

Conclusion: Living Rebirth in Daily Life

Rebirth and faith not only influence our eternal perspective but also our daily lives. They give us a new identity, a solid foundation for decisions, and the strength to overcome challenges in faith. By regularly remembering our sonship, staying in God’s word, and listening to the Holy Spirit, we experience the transformative power of faith in all aspects of our lives.

As children of God, we are invited to live each day in His love, guidance, and grace—a life full of hope and a new identity.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-9-the-source-of-life-9-3-believing-and-new-birth-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

November 26, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Romans Chapter 2

¹ Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things.

² But we are sure that the judgment of God is according to truth against them which commit such things.

³ And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God?

⁴ Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?

⁵ But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God;

⁶ Who will render to every man according to his deeds:

⁷ To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life:

⁸ But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath,

⁹ Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile;

⁰ But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile:

¹¹ For there is no respect of persons with God.

¹² For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law;

¹³ (For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified.

¹⁴ For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves:

¹⁵ Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;)

¹⁶ In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel.

¹⁷ Behold, thou art called a Jew, and restest in the law, and makest thy boast of God,

¹⁸ And knowest his will, and approvest the things that are more excellent, being instructed out of the law;

¹⁹ And art confident that thou thyself art a guide of the blind, a light of them which are in darkness,

²⁰ An instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, which hast the form of knowledge and of the truth in the law.

²¹ Thou therefore which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal?

²² Thou that sayest a man should not commit adultery, dost thou commit adultery? thou that abhorrest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege?

²³ Thou that makest thy boast of the law, through breaking the law dishonourest thou God?

²⁴ For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you, as it is written.

²⁵ For circumcision verily profiteth, if thou keep the law: but if thou be a breaker of the law, thy circumcision is made uncircumcision.

²⁶ Therefore if the uncircumcision keep the righteousness of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision?

²⁷ And shall not uncircumcision which is by nature, if it fulfil the law, judge thee, who by the letter and circumcision dost transgress the law?

²⁸ For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh:

²⁹ But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Romans chapter 2 is a central passage in Paul’s letter that deals with the standard of divine judgment. This chapter addresses both Jews and Gentiles, confronting them with the reality that God’s judgment is impartial and just. Paul emphasizes that neither external affiliation nor knowledge of the law is sufficient for justification. Instead, it is the doing of the law that counts, reflecting an inner transformation. Romans 2 challenges us to examine our hearts and reflect on our relationship with God’s grace and truth.

Commentary

God’s Judgment is Impartial and Just (Verses 1–11): Paul begins with a sharp critique of those who judge others while committing the same sins themselves. He makes it clear that no one escapes God’s judgment through self-justification. God’s patience and goodness are meant to lead to repentance, but a hardened heart accumulates wrath for the day of judgment. Divine judgment is just and is based on each person’s actions, regardless of their origin.

The Law and Conscience (Verses 12–16): Paul explains that both those who know the law and those who live without it are accountable to God. Gentiles who do not possess the law but naturally fulfill its requirements demonstrate that the law is written on their hearts. Their conscience and thoughts will serve as witnesses on the day of judgment when God reveals the hidden things of people through Jesus Christ.

Warning to the Jews (Verses 17–24): Paul addresses the Jews directly, who rely on the law and their religious identity. He criticizes their hypocrisy: they teach others but fail to keep the law themselves. Their sins lead to the tarnishing of God’s name among the Gentiles. Paul emphasizes that external obedience alone does not create true righteousness before God.

The True Circumcision (Verses 25–29): Paul clarifies that external circumcision has no value if the law is not kept. True circumcision is of the heart, achieved by the Spirit and not by the letter. This inner transformation, which deserves God’s praise, is crucial for a genuine relationship with Him.

Summary

Romans chapter 2 outlines the standards of divine judgment: it is just, impartial, and based on people’s actions, regardless of their origin or external religiosity. Paul calls us to rely not on external traits or knowledge of the law but on an inner change of heart through God’s Spirit. He reminds us that true righteousness is achieved by living according to God’s will, not by mere appearances. This chapter challenges us to recognize our own hypocrisy and to allow God’s grace to transform us.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/26-11-2024-romans-chapter-2-believe-his-prophets/