Thu, 30 March 2017
Focus: Humanity is mortal. We are closer to death today than we were yesterday and the appointed time will come whether we like it or not. However, those of us who have been baptized in Jesus Christ have already died. We have shared in His death on the Cross where He defeated sin and the devil once and for all time. This is the “Good Death” because those who have died in baptism have been declared righteous and stand justified from sin. If we are dead to sin why dwell in it? Resist it and live the Gospel life. Main Text: Romans 6:1-14 |
Wed, 22 March 2017
Focus: Adam and Jesus are two combatants locked in a life and death struggle. Adam’s disobedience results in sin and death for all. The Law only compounds Adam’s trespass by multiplying humanity’s guilt. Jesus is the “anti-Adam” and the antidote for the consequence of sin which is eternal separation from God. Christ always prevails over all the consequences of Adam! The reign of sin and death is overcome by the reign of grace and life. In Jesus, grace overflowed above and beyond sin and the victory is assured for those who receive His gifts by faith. We don’t deserve it but He earned it so live the Gospel life because you are His forever! Main Text: Romans 5:12-21 |
Fri, 17 March 2017
Focus: God’s timing is always perfect. He sent His Son Jesus to redeem sinners at just the right time. He sends trials into our lives at just the right time to draw us ever closer to Jesus and sustain us in the true faith. He declared us righteous through Jesus Christ at just the right time. He is a God who reaches out and takes the initiative to restore the relationship that was broken through no fault of His own. God is personal, seeking, caring, and forgiving. How do we know that? Because Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. Main Text: Romans 5:1-11 |
Thu, 9 March 2017
Focus: When we finally reach the end of our refining, what remains is only God’s work. It is only by the faith (Sola Fide) that He works that we are counted as righteous. It doesn’t even depend on the strength of our faith or the actions that come from our faith. As forgiven sinners, only the fruit of our faith remains. Dear God, forgive me for doubting and strengthen my faith in You. Main Text Romans 4:13-25 |
Wed, 1 March 2017
Focus: There are many underlying assumptions that we use to help us quickly process the world around us. The carpet is covering solid floor, not a hole. When I walk outside I will be breathing air. Carpet isn’t what makes a floor safe to trust. Circumcision isn’t what was counted as righteousness, and being a child of Abraham was not about genetics, but about faith. Dear God, show me where my assumptions have led me to trust in a sign of you, rather than in You. Main Text: Romans 4:1-12 |