Continuing from the previous article, where the Admonition to the believer was discussed. We’ll dwell on the sub topics, Faith and Law & Sin, in line with the book of Romans.
Faith
In Romans 3:28, Apostle Paul establishes that man is justified by faith. What does this mean? The Collins dictionary defines this to be the doctrine that God vindicates only those who repent and believe in Jesus. Ch. 3:24 – 26 provides this explanation as well.
What then is Faith? Looking through the life of Abraham, faith is unwavering at the promise of God and being fully convinced that God will perform, what He has promised. (4:20-21)
Abraham held onto the unseen evidence spoken by God. What does your faith look like? Are you holding onto God’s promises for you?
Romans 10 emphasizes the Gospel and how to receive it. Vs. 9-10 provide the equation to receive salvation.
Salvation equals confession of Jesus by mouth plus belief of Jesus’ resurrection by heart. Both actions are required to receive salvation.
Apostle Paul points out an important sequence in vs. 14 that all believers ought to know.
How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?
Romans 10:14 NKJV
Faith in Jesus only comes by hearing the word of God (vs.17). If you don’t talk about Jesus, how do you expect people to hear about Him?
To learn more about Faith, read Faith without boundaries.
Law & Sin
When Adam sinned, you and I became sinners falling short of the glory of God (3:23). It wasn’t until the law was written, that sin became punishable. See Romans 5:13 & Romans 7:7
Yes, people sinned even before the law was given. But it was not counted as sin because there was not yet any law to break.
Romans 5:13 NLT
In becoming justified by faith, sin has no dominion over you, because you now reside under the grace of God, not the law. (6:14) .
Although, if you intentionally commit sin because you know God is forgiving, you’re exploiting God’s good nature. See Romans 6:1-2
Well then, should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more of his wonderful grace? Of course not! Since we have died to sin, how can we continue to live in it?
6:1-2
The ultimate reward of sin is death, but God’s gift to you through faith and grace is eternal life. (6:23) Which will you be choosing?
Thank you for reading through the book of Romans with me. You could use this during a group or personal Bible study. Kindly share with your friends and family yet to know Jesus.
Should you have any questions about the Law and Faith, see What does it mean that Jesus fulfilled the law, but didn’t abolish it? ; Why do we tithe if we are free from the law?
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