A Debtor to Mercy Alone

 A song that has been stuck in my head and heart this week is from an 18th century Anglican turned French Calvinist preacher. Augustus Toplady wrote a few books and several hymns in addition to his pastoral ministry. 

The work which His goodness began'

The arm of His strength will complete; 

His promise is yea and amen, 

And never was forfeited yet. 

Things future, nor things that are now, 

Not all things below nor above 

Can make Him His purpose forego, 

Or sever my soul from His love.

What comforting words to be reminded that salvation, our salvation is entirely of God. There is nothing we can do to earn his favor, nor thwart his favor because it is to his mercy and grace that we are indebted. To cling to the promises of Romans 8 that nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus is a comfort to my soul. 

My name from the palm of his hand

Eternity will not erase.

Impressed on His heart it remains 

In marks of indelible grace. 

Yes, I to the end shall endure, 

As sure as the earnest is given 

More happy, but not more secure, 

The glorified spirits in heaven.

To know that we are love and cherished by our heavenly Father strengthens our hearts and reminds us that our salvation is secure because it is not guaranteed by us but by Him who alone is able to keep us until that day. Our eternity is secured because of the work of Jesus on the cross! Hold to that promise today if you find the waters of this life beating you down and causing you to question God's faithfulness and provision. 

Further Thoughts on Romans 5

The Apostle Paul reminds us of God's grace was extended to us, while we were still sinners. As you reflect on your own sin and the grand story of God's grace perhaps take time to consider what your life or the world would look like if grace reigned rather than sin and death.

Think about an area of your life, our community, or the world that demonstrates the brokenness of sin. What would that area look like if there was a reign of grace rather than a reign of death?

Spend some time recording your thoughts in a journal or in a poem.

Christ Died for Each Individual Person

As we prepare to look at Romans 5 this Sunday at ECHO at #fbcborocollege I came across this commentary on some of the key verses in the chapter. The following is from Luke Timothy Johnson, a renowned New Testament scholar, in his book Reading Romans

Indeed, what "commends God's love for us" is this remarkable fact: "while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us" (5:8). We note again how Paul has personalized the entire transaction. Not "others" were the sinners, but "we were sinners." Christ died not on behalf of a faceless humanity but for each individual human person.

 

Reflections from Romans 4

Ways Justification Changes Us

Adapted from Tim Keller’s Romans 1-7 for You.

1. No Boasting: (v. 2-3, 20) Our righteousness is credited and received, gives us the chance to practice humility

2. No Cowering: (v. 6-8) We know we are sinful, and we know our sins are covered. Sins are not counted against us and righteousness is credited, which should produce joy and gratitude.

3. A Great Identity: (v. 12-17) We are included in the great plan of human history through the faith of Abraham.

4. Complete Assurance: (v. 16) The promise of inheriting the earth and receiving new life is all grace. It relies on God’s work and ability and not mine. This enables us to live without fear of the future.

5. Hope when hope is gone: (v. 18) There was no hope for Abraham and Sarah except God’s promises. There is hope for us through Jesus Christ alone.

Spend some time this week reflecting on the way that justification changes us. Which is most precious to you today and why? Which most challenges the way you see yourself and your life and why?