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Posted By Blogger to HeavensLight at 3/23/2013 10:20:00 AM

 

Romans 3:19-28  Part 2

An Exposition – The Righteousness of God in the Gospel

 

Romans 3:25 – 25 whom God displayed publicly as a propitiation in His blood through faith. This was to demonstrate His righteousness, because in the forbearance of God He passed over the sins previously committed; NASB

A. whom God displayed publicly as a propitiation in His blood through faith. –

 

Paul now points to the redemption price which was paid by Christ Jesus. The “whom” speaks of Christ. But notice here that it was “God” who “displayed publically” Christ. It was “God” reconciling us to Himself by “a propitiation in His blood.” Here “propitiation” speaks of an atoning sacrifice which was placed on an altar. This atoning sacrifice propitiates God’s holy wrath towards sin, which means it satisfies or appeases God’s holy anger because of sin. To state this another way, God sacrificed Christ publically, to appease His own holy wrath. Here again notice these two important elements of the Gospel, it is THEOLOGICAL because it has been wrought by God and it is CHRISTOLOGICAL because it has been purchased by Christ.

 

The terms “in His blood” speak of Christ being a blood sacrifice that appeases the holy God to provide the justification that is received by faith.  God is “He who requires blood” (Psalm 9:12) because the wages of sin is death and without the death of someone, sin cannot be atoned for, because without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness or remission of sins (Heb 9:22).

 

Notice again Paul’s emphasis on faith. This “propitiation” is provided “through faith.” Faith is the vehicle “through” which the “propitiation” is applied. God’s wrath is appeased and satisfied for every individual who receives the satisfaction “through faith.” No one can merit this appeasement of wrath without becoming the appeasement themselves. This is why salvation is NOT of works, but rather “through faith” in Christ who worked it for us.

 

B. This was to demonstrate His righteousness, because in the forbearance of God He passed over the sins previously committed; –

 

Now this blood sacrifice was God making a “demonstration of His righteousness.” This is the “manifested righteousness of God” (v-21). Consider here, God has something to demonstrate, His righteousness. How did He do that? He sacrificed Christ Jesus publically to “demonstrate His righteousness.” Here Paul gives us the reason why God needed to demonstrate His righteousness. “Because in the forbearance of God He passed over the sins previously committed.” Here Paul simply means that God needed to demonstrate His righteousness because He had not burst forth in wrath against all sin in all the previous ages on mankind to destroy them, but rather “in the forbearance of God He passed over the sins” that were “previously committed.” Here learn also that justification for sinners in previous ages was completed by Christ.

 

Romans 3:26 – 26 for the demonstration, I say, of His righteousness at the present time, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. NASB

A. 26 for the demonstration, I say, of His righteousness at the present time, –

 

Here Paul describes that Christ’s death was a demonstration of God’s righteousness “at the present time” to explain that it is now fulfilled at the advent of Christ. This is the “fullness of time” when God has once for all time (Heb 10:10-14) demonstrated His righteousness through the sacrifice (propitiation) of Christ.

Galatians 4:4-5 – 4 But when the fulness of the time came, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the Law, 5 in order that He might redeem those who were under the Law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. NASB

 

B. that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. –

 

Here Paul states that God is “just” in this act of propitiation and that He is the “justifier” as well. God is the One who justifies (Rom 8:33), and He justifies “the one who has faith in Jesus.” See then in this glorious verse, justification is by faith, and in this God has demonstrated His justice.

 

Romans 3:27-28 – 27 Where then is boasting? It is excluded. By what kind of law? Of works? No, but by a law of faith. 28 For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from works of the Law. NASB

A. 27 Where then is boasting? It is excluded. By what kind of law? Of works? No, but by a law of faith. –

 

Here Paul points to mankind and asked how we can boast before God somehow of our own merit. Here he plainly states that “boasting is excluded.” In other words, we have no place to boast of our justification before God because it was completely unmerited and gratuitous, not being earned by us but rather freely given and earned by Christ. Further that this justification comes now “by a law of faith,” and NOT “of works.” The idea of justification “apart from works” in this context is emphatic and repeated several times for Paul states just a few verses later…..

Romans 4:5 – 5 But to the one who does not work, but believes in Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is reckoned as righteousness, NASB

 

Notice how many times in this short context this idea of justification by faith apart from works has been mentioned.

1.     v-21 (But now apart from the Law)

2.     v-22 (even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all those who believe;)

3.     v-24 (being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption)

4.     v-2 (as a propitiation in His blood through faith.)

5.     v-26 (the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.)

6.     v-27 (Where then is boasting? It is excluded. By what kind of law? Of works? No, but by a law of faith.)

7.     v-28 (For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from works of the Law.)

 

B. 28 For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from works of the Law. –

 

Here Paul summarizes the main point of this passage in very certain terms. This statement emphatically sets forth the idea that justification happens “by faith” and is “apart from works of the Law.” This is the heart of the Gospel that could not be stated in any clearer terms than are given here. This is a major theme in Paul’s doctrine of salvation.

Romans 5:1-2 – 1 Therefore having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God.NASB

Galatians 2:16 – 16 nevertheless knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the Law but through faith in Christ Jesus, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we may be justified by faith in Christ, and not by the works of the Law; since by the works of the Law shall no flesh be justified. NASB

Philippians 3:9 – 9 and may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith, NASB

 

Justification before God is by God’s Grace ONLY, and received by faith ONLY, because of what Christ ONLY has done. 

 

 

 

This teaching is a part of a 12 month series called "The Savior, The Cross, and The Gospel" ….

 

Romans 3:19-28  Part 1

An Exposition – The Righteousness of God in the Gospel

 

The book of Romans is comprehensive and technical discourse on Salvation by grace through faith in Christ, or the Gospel message. In the above outline we get a picture of the foundation Paul has been building in order to deliver the Gospel message to us. In chapter one he tells us that “the Gospel is the power of God unto salvation” (v-16) and he then tells us that it reveals the “righteousness of God” (v-17). He begins to establish the case of why God’s righteousness is important and necessary explaining that both Gentile and Jew are under the condemnation of God and in desperate need to be justified. In chapter 3:19-28, he explains this “righteousness of God” which is revealed in the Gospel in very certain terms. The following is an exposition of this text.

 

Romans 3:19-20 – 19 Now we know that whatever the Law says, it speaks to those who are under the Law, that every mouth may be closed, and all the world may become accountable to God; 20 because by the works of the Law no flesh will be justified in His sight; for through the Law comes the knowledge of sin. NASB

A. 19 Now we know that whatever the Law says, it speaks to those who are under the Law, that every mouth may be closed, and all the world may become accountable to God; –

 

Paul, having made his case that both the Gentile (1:18-32) and the Jew (2:1-3:8) are guilty before God, this is his final concluding remark stating that they are all liable and “accountable to God.” In establishing the extent of this accountability, he states that “every mouth may be closed and the whole world may become accountable.” By this he surely means that they have no defense or excuse to speak of the guilt of their sin, but that both their conscience (2:12-16) and God’s Law (here) testify against them.

 

B. 20 because by the works of the Law no flesh will be justified in His sight; for through the Law comes the knowledge of sin. –

 

In regard to being “justified” in God’s sight, Paul again established the guilt of the entire world with the reference “no flesh,” that is, no human being. These he says, cannot be “justified” by obedience to the Law, rather that their failure to keep it establishes what sin is, transgression of His Law. Mankind has failed not only at violating what the Law forbids (penal sanctions), but also at fulfilling what it commands (perceptive requirements). The Law, with all of its high and Holy commands, has indeed caused the sin of mankind to be seen with utmost clarity and it condemns us all as guilty before God’s judgment bar. It has given us a measuring line that reveals our treason and rebellious refusal to submit to our Creator in His commands to love Him and our neighbor. Here Paul establishes two very important elements in the Gospel:

1) The UNIVERSALity of the guilt of mankind before God (Jew and Gentile).

2) The inability for anyone to be justified before God by good works or obedience to the Law of God because of their utter failure to fulfill it. It is PERSONAL.

This is consistent with Paul’s Gospel in other sections of Scripture as well.

(Rom 2:13, 7:7-9, Gal 2:19, 3:10-13, Eph 2:8-9, Tit 3:5-7)

Galatians 2:16 – 16 nevertheless knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the Law but through faith in Christ Jesus, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we may be justified by faith in Christ, and not by the works of the Law; since by the works of the Law shall no flesh be justified. NASB

 

Romans 3:21 – 21 But now apart from the Law the righteousness of God has been manifested, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, NASB

 

A. 21 But now apart from the Law the righteousness of God has been manifested, –

 

Paul had explained in chapter 1:16-17 that the Gospel revealed “the righteousness of God” and that this was the “power of God for salvation for everyone who believes.” Here he tells us that this “righteousness of God has been manifested,” and this “apart from the Law.” When Paul speaks of the righteousness of God here, he does not speak of that righteousness which God requires only, but a righteousness which of itself comes from God and is an objective reality that has now been “revealed” (v-1:17) or “manifested.” This was Martin Luther’s great discovery, that is, that the righteousness of God was a foreign righteousness apart from our own works and apart from the very Law of God itself. Now this is THE essential part of the Gospel, and of the Christian Faith, the principle of sola fide, that is, that the righteousness of God is an objective foreign reality provided by God and received by faith, not merited of our own works.

 

Here see also, that God’s righteousness “has been manifested.” It is an historical reality that we observe from outside, that is, the life and death of the great God and Savior Jesus Christ! The life and death of Jesus Himself, is the “manifested” righteousness of God. Jesus is our righteousness. This righteousness “has been manifested” in Jesus! It is Historical.

1 Corinthians 1:30 – 30 But by His doing you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption,

See also, that it is the righteousness of God, that is, it is theological. It is that righteousness that God BOTH requires and provides. Here Paul establishes two more very important elements in the Gospel: It is HISTORICAL and THEOLOGICAL. 

 

B. being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, –

 

Here he establishes that the entire Old Testament is a witness to this “righteousness of God, apart from the Law.” That both the Law and Prophets (a reference to the entire Old Testament, that being the Pentateuch and the historical, wisdom, and prophetic literature) have testified that rightstanding with God is obtained by faith and not by works. Here he is saying that the entire Old Testament witnesses and testifies that the righteousness of God “has been manifested apart from the Law!” See then another important element in the Gospel, it is BIBLICAL.

 

Romans 3:22 – 22 even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all those who believe; for there is no distinction; NASB

A.   22 even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ –

 

Having established two very important points;

1) That the entire world, all mankind, is guilty before the tribunal of God’s judgment because of the failure to fulfill the Law of God.

2) That God’s righteousness now “has been manifested apart from the Law”

Paul delivers the sweetest, most glorious and soul freeing words which can be spoken to a guilty sinner who is under the threat and condemnation of God’s fierce wrath. That is, that God has provided the righteousness that He requires in Jesus Christ, and that we can posses it through faith alone in Christ alone! This is THE GOSPEL in a verse, and it is GOOD NEWS! Make no mistake, here the sinner is told explicitly how he/she can be made right with God, “through faith in Jesus Christ.” Here is another element then, the GOSPEL is CHRISTOLOGICAL. Jesus Christ is the center of the Gospel, it is Christocentric.

 

B. for all those who believe; for there is no distinction; –

 

Here we see a great paradox in the Gospel. It is both, all inclusive and very exclusive! It makes “no distinction” between Jew and Gentile, but “all” mankind can be included in being “justified” before God. However, this righteousness of God is very exclusive because it is provided only for those who “believe.” See then that God’s righteousness is UNIVERSAL in its scope, but given exclusively to those who believe (have faith) in Jesus Christ! And so, in the words of DA Carson, the Gospel is “received in authentic persevering faith.”

 

Romans 3:23-24 – 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus; NASB

A. 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, –

 

Here Paul repeats the point he had earlier established that “all have sinned” and “fall short” of “God’s glory,” that is, of His glorious perfection which He requires in His Law. Notice the terms “glory of God” are used to speak of God’s nature which is equivalent to His holy Law. Learn here that when we sin we “fall short of the glory of God,” yes, we fail to glorify God. Sin is a defamation of the “glory of God” and an offense to His holy perfection.

 

B. 24 being justified as a gift by His grace –

 

Here is Paul’s explanation of the gratuitous and unmerited nature of God’s FREE grace. Now he elaborates on the GOOD NEWS that “all” can be “justified as a gift by His grace!” Here is the GOSPEL, that in spite of the fact that “all” mankind have “sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” they can be “justified” by God as a FREE “gift.” By FREE we mean FREE to the one who receives it, but very costly to the One who gives it! Now this is what we mean when we speak about “grace!” GRACE is unmerited (not earned) and gratuitous (freely given).  No one can earn the “justification” or “righteousness of God,” because, “all” have forfeited it by sinning against God and offending His Glory, rebelling against His holy commands and spurning His threats to punish. Therefore, justification is provided as a gift by grace ONLY and NOT by any form of merit. This is why we say that salvation is by Grace ALONE. It is unmerited by the recipient, but rather freely given. The “Solas” of the reformation express the exclusive role of each one of the elements of salvation.

·        Sola Gratia – GRACE ALONE – not merited by works, but freely given

·        Sola Fide – FAITH ALONE – received only by belief and trust, apart from works

·        Sola Christus – CHRIST ALONE – the righteousness provided by His merit ONLY

Grace has its emphasis on God’s part of salvation being the originator and the giver of salvation. This is why the doctrine of election is also inseparably tied to grace. But faith has its emphasis on the recipient of grace, the sinner who receives the gift by faith. Faith is the conduit or vehicle by which grace is received.

Ephesians 2:8-9 – 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; 9 not as a result of works, that no one should boast. NASB

 

C. through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus; –

 

See now where the merit lies. It is in “the redemption which is in Christ Jesus.” Here, the “being justified as a gift by His grace,” is merited by the “redemption.” Of course here the term “redemption” speaks of a price paid for the debt. It is a monetary term. Therefore the “being justified as a gift by His grace” is provided by the price which was paid by Christ Jesus. Consider here also the word “through.” The object of this adverb is the clause, “being justified as a gift by His grace.” Therefore justification is a “gift” provided “through” Christ’s “redemption.” See here again therefore that justification is NOT merited by any form of good works or obedience to the Law, but is “through faith” (v-22) and received as “a gift by His grace” and provided “through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus”(v-24).

 

 

 

 

This teaching is a part of a 12 month series called "The Savior, The Cross, and The Gospel" ….

 

The Gospel Defined – What is the Gospel? Part 2

1 Corinthians 15:3-4

For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures,

and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, NASB

 

Another example of elements in the Gospel is that the Gospel proclaims to us the One true and living God who is the Creator of all things. Christianity is monotheistic, as there is only one God and there is no other. (Isa 45:5-6) This is a fundamental part of the Gospel message. Without it, the Gospel makes no sense at all.

Acts 14:14-16 – 14 But when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard of it, they tore their robes and rushed out into the crowd, crying out 15 and saying, "Men, why are you doing these things? We are also men of the same nature as you, and preach the gospel to you in order that you should turn from these vain things to a living God, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea, and all that is in them. NASB

Acts 17:24-28 – 24 "The God who made the world and all things in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands; 25 neither is He served by human hands, as though He needed anything, since He Himself gives to all life and breath and all things; 26 and He made from one, every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined their appointed times, and the boundaries of their habitation, 27 that they should seek God, if perhaps they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us; 28 for in Him we live and move and exist, as even some of your own poets have said, 'For we also are His offspring.' NASB

It was important when Paul was preaching to the pagan polytheistic (many Gods) people in Lystra and again in Athens, for Him to lay the foundation of monotheism before He could proclaim the entire Gospel to them. This is not unlike the pagan pluralistic culture we find ourselves in here in postmodern America. Many people do not have a monotheistic worldview, so we must lay that foundation in their understanding so as to make sense out of; – God, Man/Sin, Christ, Response. These things show us how the Gospel is also a complex message made up of many different elements that all work together to display the glory of God and His eternal purpose in Christ Jesus our Lord. Paul and the other Apostles, were preaching the full Gospel, which included all of God’s manifold blessings, threatenings and promises as He brings the creation to its ultimate fulfillment when His Kingdom is established and all His enemies, including death, are destroyed and forever removed, and all things are made new.

Ephesians 3:8-12 – 8 To me, the very least of all saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unfathomable riches of Christ, 9 and to bring to light what is the administration of the mystery which for ages has been hidden in God, who created all things; 10 in order that the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known through the church to the rulers and the authorities in the heavenly places. 11 This was in accordance with the eternal purpose which He carried out in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12 in whom we have boldness and confident access through faith in Him.  NASB

This is another important aspect of the Gospel. The Kingdom will soon reach its fulfillment and all things will be made new, death and hell no more shall awe us, the old creation will be destroyed and God’s people will forever enter His rest, and He will dwell among them!

Revelation 21:1-5 – 1 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth passed away, and there is no longer any sea. 2 And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne, saying, "Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He shall dwell among them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself shall be among them, 4 and He shall wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there shall no longer be any death; there shall no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away." 5 And He who sits on the throne said, "Behold, I am making all things new." And He said, "Write, for these words are faithful and true." NASB

In fact, all of the categories of doctrine in the Christian faith are inseparably tied to the Gospel and provide for it a foundation and support. All of these great doctrines have important ramifications to the support of the Gospel and work together to weave the tapestry of God’s amazing redemptive purpose as He unfolds it in the History of the world. 

·        Authority of Scripture – Apart from the infallibility and inerrancy of Scripture the Gospel has little credibility.

·        Theology – The Gospel proclaims the existence of God and His claim upon mankind as His creatures.

·        Salvation – The Gospel presents fallen man with the only way to be saved from God’s wrath and given eternal life with Him forever through the substitutionary atonement of Jesus Christ.

·        Ecclesiology – The Gospel calls out a people from the darkness of sin and the world to become the people of God through the regeneration of the Holy Spirit. All of these redeemed people comprise the Church.

·        Eschatology – The Gospel proclaims the Kingdom of God and His rule, coming to lay claim to His creation and banish His enemies forever.

And this is not all. The Gospel has other important ramifications as well. Consider this brief outline given by DA Carson in his sermon, “What is the Gospel?”

8 defining words

·        Christological – A message about Christ, incarnate God, Lord and Savior.

·        Theological – A message about God and His relations with mankind.

·        Biblical – A message thoroughly defined by the Bible.

·        Apostolic – A message preached and established by the Apostles.

·        Historical – A message based on historical facts.

·        Personal – A message for paramount importance for every single individual .

·        Universal – A message to be preached to the entire world.

·        Eschatological – A message which reveals the purpose and fulfillment of all things and the ultimate ends of the world.

5 clarifying sentences

·        The Gospel is heralded through proclamation.

·        The Gospel is received in authentic persevering faith.

·        The Gospel is disclosed in personal self humiliation.

·        The Gospel is the central confession of the whole Church.

·        The Gospel is boldly advancing under the contested reign and inevitable victory of King Jesus.

Or consider these elements added to the list by Tim Keller’s survey of the Gospel in His sermon “Gospel Centered Ministry.”

·        Doxological – The Gospel is a message that teaches us to glorify, enjoy and worship God and His Christ as the great purpose of all of life.

·        Cultural – The Gospel is a message that has power to transform the moral fiber of a culture. It cuts to the heart of how people relate to one another with conviction.

·        Transformational – The Gospel transforms us into new creations in Christ as it is God’s very power to save and transform.

·        Wonderful – The Gospel is a glorious display of the character and nature of the wonderful God.

All of these things show us clearly that the Gospel is complex and multifaceted message about God and His eternal purpose accomplished through Jesus Christ, which encompasses the entire record of human history and the fulfillment of the ages.

 

Jesus is the Gospel

But in its most basic element it is a message about Christ. Jesus Himself is the beginning and the end of the Gospel. Paul when writing to the Corinthians tells us…..

1 Corinthians 1:20-24 – 21 For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not come to know God, God was well-pleased through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe. 22 For indeed Jews ask for signs, and Greeks search for wisdom; 23 but we preach Christ crucified, to Jews a stumbling block, and to Gentiles foolishness, 24 but to those who are the called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. NASB

1 Corinthians 1:30-2:2 – 30 But by His doing you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption, 31 that, just as it is written, "Let him who boasts, boast in the Lord." 2:1 And when I came to you, brethren, I did not come with superiority of speech or of wisdom, proclaiming to you the testimony of God. 2 For I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified. NASB

Here Paul says Jesus is the power of God and He is the wisdom of God. What Paul is communicating is that we cannot experience the power or wisdom of God apart from the person of Christ because He is the central theme of God’s wisdom and power. We see the power and the wisdom of God through the Gospel, as it explains to us God’s amazing love expressed through Jesus and His passion on the Cross. “We preach Christ crucified” says Paul. His message is one about how the death of a certain man can redeem the entire creation from death and decay! This he says is a “foolish” message to the Greeks and a “stumbling block” to the Jews, but to those whom God has called, “Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.” He goes on to tell us that Jesus has become for us….wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification and redemption. Not that Jesus gives us these things, but that He, His person, is those things for us. Now dear friends, here is true freedom….Jesus IS my wisdom….Jesus IS my rightstanding with God…..Jesus IS my holiness before God….and Jesus IS my redemption, my personal payment for my personal horrendous sins! Christ IS these things for me, because I am unable to be these things on my own! Oh what a Savior! Jesus’ very name means “The Lord saves!” Jesus is the Gospel! This reminds me of a word from the man of God John Newton…..“My memory is nearly gone, but I remember two things: That I am a great sinner and that Christ is a great Savior.”

 

 

This teaching is a part of a 12 month series called "The Savior, The Cross, and The Gospel" ….

The Gospel – The Message of Jesus Christ

The Gospel Defined – What is the Gospel?

1 Corinthians 15:3-4

For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures,

and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, NASB

 

The Gospel is a Message

The word “gospel” comes from the Greek word “evanggelion” …2098 meaning “a good message, i.e. the gospel,” or “the good news.” This is where we derive our word “evangel” and also “evangelical,” two words which are commonly used in Christianity to speak of “the Gospel” or of “being Gospel believing.” When we use the word “Gospel” in Christianity it takes on a very specific and defined meaning which has its origin in the Bible, and more specifically in the New Testament(even though the Old Testament pointed to it frequently). It is in fact “the message of the good news” of Jesus Christ and the free offer of salvation from sin and reconciliation to God through Him. So to define the Gospel in a brief statement it would look something like this…..

The message or “good news” of the person and work of Jesus Christ, God the Son, come to the earth to fulfill God’s eternal plan of salvation. The message carries within it the power to transform the sinner by the regeneration of the Holy Spirit, into a child of God and grant them eternal life. It furthermore includes the proclamation of all of God’s promises to mankind in Christ, as well as His threatenings to those who continue in their sin and rejection of God’s way of salvation provided “freely” through Jesus Christ. Primarily, mankind has been separated from God by willfully sinning against Him, is subject to His wrath, but that mankind can be saved from God’s wrath by repentance from sins and faith in Jesus Christ. This faith is defined as “trusting in and relying upon the person and work of Jesus Christ alone, receiving Him as both Savior and Lord.” It also announces the Kingdom of God, come to the earth now, under the rule of the King, Jesus Christ, and that He will soon return to the earth to destroy sin and evil forever, and renew all things in creation to God’s intended state of glory. Secondarily, that this gospel message is to be preached among the nations, so that mankind can be saved from sin and death and reconciled to God through adhering to it. (Romans 1:16-17, 3:19-28, 5:19-21, 10:9-10,17, 1 Corinthians 15:1-4, Acts 17:24-31, John 3:16-18, 1 John 5:11-13)

This message of the Gospel is at its core rather simple, and yet at the same time has many complex elements and nuances that are very important to understand.

 

The Gospel is Simple

When we consider the basic elements of the Gospel it is really rather simple. 9Marks.org has  classified them in these four basic categories…..

·        God – It is a message about the One true and living God and His claim on our lives as our Sovereign Creator and Righteous Judge.

·        Man – Man was created by God, in God's image, to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. But man sinned against God by disobeying His holy law. Man therefore separated himself from God's holy and satisfying presence, and incurred His wrathful displeasure.

·        Christ – Christ’s death was the substitute payment for the penalty that we deserved for our sin. His death is God's only provision for the forgiveness of man's sin and the appeasement of God's wrath against him. His life provides a perfect righteousness for us in the sight of God.

·        Response – We are called to respond to this good news in repentance and belief – turning away from our sin and self-sufficiency toward God, and trusting in the shed blood of Jesus Christ as the substitute penalty that we deserved for our sin.

In these basic elements the Gospel is rather simple. In one sentence, “Man has been separated from God because of sin, and Christ is God’s provision to atone for man’s sins, and man can simply receive God’s provision through repentance and faith.” This is the good news about Jesus Christ that historic Christianity has always proclaimed and this is the essential message that we still proclaim today. The message is timeless and not subject to modernity, or culture or any other influence that would change its meaning until Christ returns in power to establish His Kingdom physically upon the earth.

 

The Gospel is Complex

Although the essential message of the Gospel is rather simple, it has many details and related matters that cause it to blossom and bloom into a very complex and beautiful saga of immense proportions. In fact, the Gospel is the central theme in History and the crowning achievement of God’s work in creation. The creation was created so that the Gospel story could be accomplished by God and this is what we call Redemptive History. The entire Bible is devoted to revealing this Gospel to us as the central focus of all of the History of mankind, both now and forever. In fact, Heaven is now and will be filled with high praises of the Lamb of God for His very loving and gracious sacrifice at Calvary!

Revelation 5:8-14 – 8 And when He had taken the book, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, having each one a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. 9 And they sang a new song, saying, "Worthy art Thou to take the book, and to break its seals; for Thou wast slain, and didst purchase for God with Thy blood men from every tribe and tongue and people and nation. 10 "And Thou hast made them to be a kingdom and priests to our God; and they will reign upon the earth." 11 And I looked, and I heard the voice of many angels around the throne and the living creatures and the elders; and the number of them was myriads of myriads, and thousands of thousands, 12 saying with a loud voice, "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing." 13 And every created thing which is in heaven and on the earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all things in them, I heard saying, "To Him who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb, be blessing and honor and glory and dominion forever and ever." 14 And the four living creatures kept saying, "Amen." And the elders fell down and worshiped. NASB

Therefore, the essential message of the Gospel is simple and clear, but the ramifications behind what it is proclaiming are complex and involved in a very awesome way. For example the Gospel confers on us a KING and a KINGDOM which has now broken into time and space in a certain spiritual way, but has not yet reached its fulfillment. Jesus reigns as KING from the right hand of God and is awaiting His enemies to be put under His feet. The Lamb of God has come and given His life as a sacrifice for sins to offer us forgiveness, and He calls us to willingly repent and follow Him. But this same Jesus, the suffering Lamb, is also portrayed in the Bible as the Lion of Judah who is a soon coming King who is coming to conquer and take His Kingdom by force, and warns all who do not obey Him willingly, that rejection of His Kingship will result in the worst possible consequences of all, eternal damnation. (John 3:36, 2 Thes 1:7-10) The KINGDOM has come in a very real way, but it has a “NOW” but “NOT YET” characteristic to it.

1 Corinthians 15:22-28 – 22 For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all shall be made alive. 23 But each in his own order: Christ the first fruits, after that those who are Christ's at His coming, 24 then comes the end, when He delivers up the kingdom to the God and Father, when He has abolished all rule and all authority and power. 25 For He must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet. 26 The last enemy that will be abolished is death. 27 For He has put all things in subjection under His feet. But when He says, "All things are put in subjection," it is evident that He is excepted who put all things in subjection to Him. 28 And when all things are subjected to Him, then the Son Himself also will be subjected to the One who subjected all things to Him, that God may be all in all. NASB

Notice the terms used in this passage,…order….after that….then….when….until…etc. Thus the Kingdom of God has “stages of fulfillment” which have “NOT YET” reached their climax. All of this is conferred upon us in the Gospel message because in the Gospel we proclaim Jesus as King, and Judge of the living and the dead. All men will face King Jesus in judgment, at death, and will be judged by Him for the “deeds done in the body.” The Gospel calls us to obedience to Jesus Christ as both Savior and Lord, a Lord who rules over us as our King as well as a Priest who intercedes between us and God.

Acts 10:42-43 – 42 "And He ordered us to preach to the people, and solemnly to testify that this is the One who has been appointed by God as Judge of the living and the dead. 43 "Of Him all the prophets bear witness that through His name everyone who believes in Him receives forgiveness of sins." NASB

Romans 2:5-6 -5 But because of your stubbornness and unrepentant heart you are storing up wrath for yourself in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God, 6 who will render to every man according to his deeds: …..16 on the day when, according to my gospel, God will judge the secrets of men through Christ Jesus. NASB

Notice how both Peter and Paul tell us that the message or Gospel they are preaching contains this element of judgment to come as well as forgiveness of sins.

 

 

 

This teaching is a part of a 12 month series called "The Savior, The Cross, and The Gospel" ….

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Posted By Blogger to HeavensLight at 12/05/2012 02:54:00 PM

The Gospel is Objective Reality

1 Corinthians 1:30

But by His doing you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God,

and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption, NASB

 

The Gospel is Objective Reality

This is to say that the righteousness which was merited by the life and death of Christ is outside of us, immutable and fixed. Our right standing with God does not change or shift with our feelings, circumstances or performance, but is that which rests solely on the merits of Christ and His perfect righteousness. He Himself is our righteousness and sanctification, therefore our right standing with God is “in Christ” and always steadfast, unchanging and adequate.

1 Corinthians 1:30 – 30 But by His doing you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption, NASB

If you are “in Christ,” you have trusted in what He has done by His perfect life and death, and not in your own works or performance. On the contrary, our performance was a huge failure and by it we merited God’s holy wrath and deserve to die as a rebel and enemy of God. But Christ is our righteousness and we have believed in Him. Therefore our faith has laid hold of Jesus and His perfection and our righteousness before God is not subject to anything except that fixed reality that Christ IS righteous. The righteousness which we possess is a foreign righteousness, which is NOT our own, but is Christ’s and is complete and adequate.

Philippians 3:9 – 9 and may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith, NASB

Our faith is placed in an historical fact which has happened and is accomplished. That is, that Jesus Christ lived a perfectly righteous life in my place, and that He died to absorb the wrath of God for me and these He both accomplished completely and perfectly. The resurrection is proof of the fact that it was accepted by the Father and that He did indeed triumph over sin and death. The grave could not hold Him because the effectual power of His life and death does “much more abound” over sin and death. Therefore the life and death of our Lord is an historical fact which is then outside of us and objective. It is not subject to any other thing which can change its merit or value, but is in fact a reality which stands, fixed in the heavens, unmovable and complete. Because of this objective reality we confess that our salvation is by God’s grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone. This is to say that we are saved because God is rich in love toward us and gives us favor which we have not merited, but rather in Christ ONLY we have favor with God and this is applied to us by simply trusting in what He has done for us!

Ephesians 2:8-9 – 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; 9 not as a result of works, that no one should boast. NASB

Therefore we can derive from this objective reality a sound and tremendous assurance of God’s love and favor for us. God only designs that which is good for the Christian and tends to our benefit and blessing. Even the worst circumstances of our lives work together for our good because God “causes all things to work together for good.” If God would not spare His own Son, but would give Him in sacrifice to justify us, will He not also graciously give us all things? What more could God do to prove His love and favor for us?

Romans 8:31-34 – 31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us? 32 He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things? 33 Who will bring a charge against God's elect? God is the one who justifies; 34 who is the one who condemns? NASB

What then shall we say in response to this? How should we face our daily life in regard to this reality of God’s love and favor for us! We should live our life in view of what God has done, and live in the fullness of the blessing He has worked with a devoted life of love toward God and thanksgiving for His marvelous grace!

A response worthy of Christ

When we live our life in view of the cross, and allow it to define our lives, it changes the whole context in which we respond to the circumstances and relationships in our life. Consider once again the words of the apostle Paul in Galatians….

Galatians 2:20 – 20 "I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me, and delivered Himself up for me. NASB

“I have been crucified with Christ” says Paul. What he means to say is that just as Jesus died to put away sins, we die to sins in regard to our behavior and live in the resurrection of Jesus life by faith. We are to consider the heavenly reality of our death to sin and our life is now purchased and defined by Christ’s death to sin and righteous obedience to God. In Colossians he tells us then to seek this heavenly reality in our thinking and be transformed in our behavior because of the reality of what Christ has done.

Colossians 3:1-4 – 1 If then you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. 3 For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is our life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in glory.

“Seek the things which are above.” That is, allow the heavenly purpose of God’s love in Christ to change the way we view our life, relationships and circumstances. We do this because, he says, “we died and our life is hidden with Christ in God.” We died to sin when we embraced Christ and His cross, therefore Paul tells us, to consider ourselves dead to sinful behavior.

Colossians 3:5-11 – 5 Therefore consider the members of your earthly body as dead to immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and greed, which amounts to idolatry. 6 For it is on account of these things that the wrath of God will come, 7 and in them you also once walked, when you were living in them. 8 But now you also, put them all aside: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive speech from your mouth. 9 Do not lie to one another, since you laid aside the old self with its evil practices, 10 and have put on the new self who is being renewed to a true knowledge according to the image of the One who created him 11 — a renewal in which there is no distinction between Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave and freeman, but Christ is all, and in all. NASB

He then goes on to describe how this knowledge of what Christ has done should change the way we view our relationships and it defines the context of how we respond to others in light of the knowledge of the cross.

Colossians 3:12-4 – 12 And so, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; 13 bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. 14 And beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. 15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. 17 And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.

Here Paul describes how the knowledge of the “things above v-2,” changes the context in which we view our relationship to others. If Jesus died to give His life as a sacrifice for us, surely we can view others with “compassion, kindness, humility gentleness and patience!” If Jesus bore our sins in His body on the cross for our forgiveness, surely we can now “bear with one another and forgive each other.” This, he says, is “just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you!” In other words, Jesus life and death on the cross becomes an example to us of how we treat others and express His heavenly love and virtue through our relationships now in our daily life. He describes Christ’s love as if it were a garment to “put on” and tells how we are to let His peace “rule in our hearts” and to do this while being “thankful!”  Further we are to teach and admonish one another along with songs of praise and this also with “thankfulness in your hearts to God!” Our entire life, all our actions he says, are to be done “giving thanks through Him!” Let us therefore see how Christ’s cross is the wellspring of God’s virtue in our daily life!

 

 

This teaching is a part of a 12 month series called "The Savior, The Cross, and The Gospel" ….

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Posted By Blogger to HeavensLight at 12/05/2012 02:54:00 PM

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Posted By Blogger to HeavensLight at 12/05/2012 02:54:00 PM

The Cross – The Work of Jesus Christ

The Atonement – Applied to Our Daily Life

1 John 2:1

My little children, I am writing these things to you that you may not sin. And if anyone sins,

we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; NASB

 

Atonement Applied

Dear Friends consider the magnificent things that Christ has done! We have in fact been redeemed from our sins and reconciled to God through our Lord Jesus Christ. We can therefore walk in the assurance, confidence and freedom in our relationship with God, based on the power of Christ’s saving work for us. We can now rest in His work and appreciate the great things he has done. This appreciation and worship of Christ, should therefore drive us to apply what He has done in our daily living so that we live the free and powerful life that God has intended for us by His Spirit. These doctrinal truths should have a very practical affect upon our thinking and living. Let us consider a few ways how we should view these truths in our daily life and practice.

·        Substitutionary – in the place of, “Christ died in our place.”

Because Jesus died in my place, I should consider that it should have been ME that had to die and not HIM. Instead He was willing to be the atoning victim and bear the very penalty which is reserved for ME. He is the sacrificial lamb which died, in my place, for my sin! What amazing love is this?

1 John 2:2 – 2 and He Himself is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for those of the whole world. NASB

Consider then, how this should motivate us with thankfulness in our hearts toward God. More than this, how it should create in us a hatred for the sin which caused God’s wrath to fall upon Him, instead of me. Motivated now by gratitude for what He has done, I should despise my sin for it was the reason that Jesus died for me! Oh Blessed Mercy!

·        Vicarious – in our place, for us, substitution implied personally, “Christ died for us.”

As the hymn writer sings…..

“And can it be that I should gain, An interest in the Savior’s blood?
Died He for me, who caused His pain, For me, who Him to death pursued?
Amazing love! How can it be, That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me? “

As we consider in amazement that Jesus died for us personally, we should consider His goal and purpose in this matter as Paul states in Titus…

Titus 2:11-14 – 11 For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, 12 instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age, 13 looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus; 14 who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds. NASB

Oh believer, think about this. Did Jesus die for nothing? No indeed, He died for your sin and for mine! Therefore we should be eager to “deny ungodliness and worldly desire and to live sensible, righteously and godly in this present age!” Our Lord has sought to “purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds,” therefore  we should be exactly that, zealous for good deeds. Christ’s death for us personally should motivate us to put away sin and to walk in Christ’s love and in His godly character. This is brought to pass in us as we trust in and rely upon the power of the indwelling Spirit to produce in us His godly character.

·        Propitiatory – appeasement or satisfaction of God’s wrath toward sin, “Christ satisfied God’s divine justice and paid the actual debt of our sin.”

Jesus death on the cross satisfies the wrath of God toward each one of us sinners who has trusted in Him. This is the ultimate display of God’s love toward those who trust in Christ! In fact this satisfaction is so complete, it is said to “justify us by His blood,” and to “save us from the wrath of God!” More than this, it completely “reconciles” us back to God, and the perfect life of Jesus now “saves us” from sin and death!

Romans 5:8-10 – 8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him. 10 For if while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. NASB

Because this is true, consider that how we should rejoice that the furious wrath of the Holy God has been spent on Him and none remains for us, who are infinitely deserving of it! Even more how this should motivate us with a holy fear to keep our life pure from sin! Further, it should create in us a gratitude that strengthens us to honor Him for what He has done, with lives of purity rather than dishonor Him by continued sin, which brings disgrace to His name.

·        Expiatory – the remove of guilt, “Christ cancelled out or released us from the debt of sin.”

Free at last! We have been set free from the guilt of our sins! No longer do my past sins rule over me with guilt and condemnation, rather I am free to love and enjoy God freely!    

Romans 8:1-3 – 1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death. 3 For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God did: sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh, NASB

Because Christ has cancelled the debt of our sin and guilt, we should look forward to our days in how we may glorify God with our lives, rather then be depressed with hopeless despair wondering if God can really forgive us. There is “no condemnation now for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Therefore, since we have been “set free from the law of sin and death,” we can live to the glory of God with hearts of thanksgiving and gratitude!

·        Justification – a legal declaration of righteousness, “Christ justified us before God’s court on the basis of His own merit.”

Though the devil may accuse us, we have an advocate with the Father who has dealt with our sins completely.

1 John 2:1 – 1 My little children, I am writing these things to you that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; NASB

Because God has justified us in Christ Jesus our Lord, we should appreciate and glorify God for this great thing that He has done. This is because we could have in no way brought about this justification on our own, but it is in fact come to us by GRACE alone, through FAITH alone, in CHRIST alone! We have been justified on the basis of Christ’s work, and this should cause us to worship and thank God for His amazing grace!

·        Sacrifice – the personal cost to Christ was death in our place, “Christ was the actual victim of divine justice, he was the sacrifice that died for us.”

Consider that God so loved us that He sent Jesus to die for you and for me! 

1 John 4:10 – 10 In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. NASB

This love of God should then motivate us to want to be like Him. This is practically played out in our lives as we live a life of sacrifice to love others in many practical ways. If we truly glorify God for His love, we should show it by making sacrifices of our time, talent and money to display His love now through our very lives! These sacrifices glorify God and are part of our priestly ministry to Him.

1 Peter 2:4-10 – 4 and coming to Him as to a living stone, rejected by men, but choice and precious in the sight of God,  5 you also, as living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house for a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ……9 but you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God's own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; NASB

 

·        Reconciliation – the restoration of relationship of mankind to God, “Christ reconciled us to God and repaired the alienation we once had with Him.”

Now through our Lord Jesus we have had our relationship with God restored! Not only this but we stand in God’s favor because of Him. We now stand in Christ’s perfect righteousness, holy blameless and beyond any reproach!

Colossians 1:22 -22 yet He has now reconciled you in His fleshly body through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach NASB

Consider then, that since God has loved us with such an amazing love, how we should embrace His love and return it to Him! Since God has reached out to us and embraced us, shall we not embrace Him back? Indeed we should! Let us consider how profound God’s grace is in forgiving and reconciling us to Himself and cherish His love with a devoted life or worship and thanksgiving!

 

 

 

The Cross – The Work of Jesus Christ

Salvation, Sanctification, Glorification

 

Distinctions in the process of Salvation

When we use the word “salvation” in the biblical sense, we speak of the whole scope of Christ’s saving work, from first to last, as it applies to the believer. This salvation was planned and promised by the Father, wrought and purchased by the Son, and applied by the Holy Spirit to all whom God has intended to save. The nature of salvation however, even though it is an eternal work, is much like a process that is worked out in time and space, which culminates in eternal glory in the presence of God in the eternal state. Thus, the Bible makes a distinction in the different stages of this process. These stages are referred to as “Salvation, Sanctification and Glorification.” Although the term “salvation” can be used to speak of the whole scope of these stages, it can also be distinguished from them. This is because salvation is described in three tenses, past, present and future. We were saved by grace through faith in Christ alone.

Ephesians 2:8-9 – 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; 9 not as a result of works, that no one should boast. NASB

However we are being saved even now.

Philippians 2:12-13 – 12 So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; 13 for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure. NASB

We will also be saved in a yet future sense at the return of Christ (Heb 9:28). At this time we will be completely delivered from the power and presence of sin and enter into the glorious presence of God.

Romans 8:23-25 – 23 And not only this, but also we ourselves, having the first fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our body. 24 For in hope we have been saved, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one also hope for what he sees? 25 But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it. NASB

Therefore in order to understand this great salvation we possess, it is important to grasp these different stages which are expressed in the Bible.

 

Salvation

The idea or concept of salvation is necessary from the fact that mankind has been alienated from God because of sin. Mankind has fallen under the darkness and power of sin, through the destructive work of Satan, and now exists in a world hopelessly destined to perish under the wrath of Almighty God.

Ephesians 2:1-3 – And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, 2 in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience. 3 Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest. NASB

Sin has personally alienated mankind from God and caused us to be the objects of His wrath, that is, the manifestation of His holy moral judgment against it. This wrath is culminated in death, eternal separation from God’s good presence to bless.

2 Thessalonians 1:8-10 – dealing out retribution to those who do not know God and to those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. 9 And these will pay the penalty of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power, 10 when He comes to be glorified in His saints on that day, and to be marveled at among all who have believed — for our testimony to you was believed. NASB

Therefore being saved, or the idea of salvation, is to be saved from sin and death, so that we are delivered from its power and transformed into a new creation of God. But this deliverance from sin and death is really only secondary. It is important to note that in a primary sense we are really being saved from God Himself. God is the One who is personally offended by sin, and unless we are reconciled to Him, having our relationship restored and His holy wrath because of sin satisfied, we will perish under the just consequences due to us because of sin. This wrath is God’s wrath, His personal outrage toward sin, and the persons who perpetrate it.

Romans 1:18-19 – 18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, 19 because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. NASB

We are saved then from the being of God Himself, who is governing the universe by His Providence, and is Himself the avenger of sin. God will make sure that every unrepentant sinner receives the just recompense for their sins and is destroyed in hell forever.

Psalm 145:20 – 20 The LORD keeps all who love Him; But all the wicked , He will destroy.  NASB

Romans 2:5-9 – 5 But because of your stubbornness and unrepentant heart you are storing up wrath for yourself in 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 those who by perseverance in doing good seek for glory and honor and immortality, eternal life; 8 but to those who are selfishly ambitious and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, wrath and indignation. 9 There will be tribulation and distress for every soul of man who does evil, of the Jew first and also of the Greek, NASB

It is God who has been offended by sin, and it is God who will inflict His wrath upon those who continue in sin and do not believe the Gospel. Dear reader, if we do not believe the Gospel, we will fall hopelessly under the judgment of Almighty God. Jesus Christ is the only way to be saved from the wrath of God, which is coming upon every person who has not taken refuge in Him. This we should greatly fear. You or I cannot imagine the severity of these words! They are very severe indeed. Let us be careful to heed the warnings of God in the Scripture.

Hebrews 10:26-31 – 26 For if we go on sinning willfully after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, 27 but a certain terrifying expectation of judgment, and the fury of a fire which will consume the adversaries. 28 Anyone who has set aside the Law of Moses dies without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. 29 How much severer punishment do you think he will deserve who has trampled under foot the Son of God, and has regarded as unclean the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has insulted the Spirit of grace? 30 For we know Him who said, "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay." And again, "The Lord will judge His people." 31 It is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God. NASB

Reconciliation to God then is absolutely necessary in order to be saved. This reconciliation not only requires our negative guilt to be removed (expiated), but also a positive righteousness credited (imputation) to us. This salvation from the wrath of God then, is exactly what the Gospel declares is available to all who will by faith trust in the finished work of Jesus the Christ.

Romans 5:9 – 9 Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him. NASB

Through Jesus and the finished work offered in the Atonement, we can be fully reconciled to God and saved from the wrath of God, and the power of sin. This salvation is pictured in many ways in the Old Testament, but its most vivid picture is that of the deliverance of the Israelites from the bondage of slavery under Pharaoh in Egypt. That deliverance brought them from tyranny in Egypt to freedom in the Promised Land. In this, the mighty saving power of God was demonstrated dramatically as the Israelites formed a holy nation of priestly servants of the Lord. In the Exodus we have a pattern (or type, shadow, analogue) of the reality of salvation which has now come to us in our Lord Jesus Christ who is Himself, the Savior, the promised One who fulfills all of the types and shadows of the Old Testament.

Hebrews 10:1 – For the Law, since it has only a shadow of the good things to come and not the very form of things, can never by the same sacrifices year by year, which they offer continually, make perfect those who draw near. NASB

Colossians 2:16-17 – 16 Therefore let no one act as your judge in regard to food or drink or in respect to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath day —  17 things which are a mere shadow of what is to come; but the substance belongs to Christ. NASB

The New testament then is the account of how Jesus the Christ did come and actually bring the fulfillment of all of the promises of God to save His chosen people from the bondage of sin and its destructive consequences of wrath and death. Now we read of the realities of Salvation which “have been” accomplished already by Christ, and we now eagerly await the fulfillment of all that He has worked as the stages of that Salvation are being brought to pass in time and space which will all culminate in the eternal state. This will happen when Jesus returns and brings all earthly rule and power under His dominion and destroys all His enemies, including death itself. 

1 Corinthians 15:22-26 – 22 For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all shall be made alive. 23 But each in his own order: Christ the first fruits, after that those who are Christ's at His coming, 24 then comes the end, when He delivers up the kingdom to the God and Father, when He has abolished all rule and all authority and power. 25 For He must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet. 26 The last enemy that will be abolished is death. NASB

We are now in that stage of fulfillment where we eagerly await His second coming. During these “last days” (gk. eschaton), this Salvation is now being applied by the ministry of the Holy Spirit to all the elect people of God, during “this age,” as we await the future fulfillment of “the age to come” when Christ will consummate the ages.

 

Sanctification

It is no small thing that God has “sanctified” those who are in Christ. Indeed for those who have come to Him, they are reckoned as “holy and without blemish” in position before God. The sacrifice of Christ has completely covered over the sin of His people and His sinless life of perfect righteousness has been imputed to their account. Christ Jesus is a perfect priest who accomplished a perfect mediation between God and man. We can have confidence and assurance before God because of what Christ has done. Jesus has merited for us eternal salvation by His broken body and shed blood. The debt of our sins has been paid in full (redemption), our guilt has been removed (expiated), and the wrath of God on our behalf has been satisfied (propitiated).

Hebrews 10:10, 14 – 10 By this will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all….. 14 For by one offering He has perfected for all time those who are sanctified. NASB

1 Corinthians 1:30-31 – 30 But by His doing you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption, 31 that, just as it is written, "Let him who boasts, boast in the Lord." NASB

Colossians 1:21-22 –  22 But now he has reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation– NASB

1 Corinthians 6:11 – 11 And such were some of you; but you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and in the Spirit of our God. NASB

Indeed it is true that Christ Jesus died to sanctify and cleanse us from our sins and that through Him we have been justified (declared righteous). Although we have been sanctified in position before God, the Lord is actively sanctifying us in our conduct and practice. The work of salvation is continuing in those of us who are actually being saved. God is the primary agent in this process. We as humans are no more capable of sanctifying ourselves as we are of saving ourselves. Without the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, we would be powerless against temptation and sin, continuing to trample the grace of God under our feet. This practical aspect of salvation will not be completed until the resurrection of our bodies.

Philippians 1:6 – 6 For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus. NASB

John 17:17,19 – 17 "Sanctify them in the truth; Thy word is truth…..19 "And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they themselves also may be sanctified in truth. NASB

1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 – 23 Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass. NASB

1 Corinthians 1:7-8 – 7 so that you are not lacking in any gift, awaiting eagerly the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ, 8 who shall also confirm you to the end, blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. NASB

Although it true that in Christ we have been justified (declared righteous), and also that God is the One who continues to sanctify us by His Spirit, nevertheless we are commanded to pursue righteousness and holiness in our conduct. We are admonished again and again to be holy and to purify ourselves by remaining in repentance. This is the practical aspect of salvation. We are to pursue Christ in our behavior and to bring honor to His name by our holy and righteous conduct. Therefore, sanctification is a progressive work of God in which we cooperate with God to become free from the practice of sin and progressively practice righteousness in our conduct. In this sense, sanctification is the work of God and the work of the believer.

Leviticus 20:26 – 26 'Thus you are to be holy to Me, for I the Lord am holy; and I have set you apart from the peoples to be Mine. NASB

2 Corinthians 7:1 – Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. NASB

1 Thessalonians 4:3-8 – 3 For this is the will of God, your sanctification; that is, that you abstain from sexual immorality; 4 that each of you know how to possess his own vessel in sanctification and honor, 5 not in lustful passion, like the Gentiles who do not know God; 6 and that no man transgress and defraud his brother in the matter because the Lord is the avenger in all these things, just as we also told you before and solemnly warned you. 7 For God has not called us for the purpose of impurity, but in sanctification. 8 Consequently, he who rejects this is not rejecting man but the God who gives His Holy Spirit to you. NASB

2 Peter 1:5-10 – 5 Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge; 6 and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness; 7 and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love. 8 For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For he who lacks these qualities is blind or short-sighted, having forgotten his purification from his former sins. 10 Therefore, brethren, be all the more diligent to make certain about His calling and choosing you; for as long as you practice these things, you will never stumble; NASB

2 Peter 3:14 – 14 Therefore, beloved, since you look for these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, spotless and blameless, NASB

1 John 3:3 – 3 And everyone who has this hope fixed on Him purifies himself, just as He is pure. NASB

Further, this progressive work of sanctification begins at regeneration (the moment in time when we were born again), and increases throughout our lives so that there is a decreasing practice of sinful conduct and an increasing practice of righteous conduct. We are being transformed progressively into the character and likeness (image) of Christ Jesus.

2 Corinthians 3:18 – 18 But we all, with unveiled face beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit. NASB

Romans 6:19 – 19 I am speaking in human terms because of the weakness of your flesh. For just as you presented your members as slaves to impurity and to lawlessness, resulting in further lawlessness, so now present your members as slaves to righteousness, resulting in sanctification. NASB

Romans 8:29 – 29 For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the first-born among many brethren; NASB

Colossians 3:9-10 – 9 Do not lie to one another, since you laid aside the old self with its evil practices, 10 and have put on the new self who is being renewed to a true knowledge according to the image of the One who created him NASB

This progressive sanctification continues until death, or the resurrection (whichever happens first). At that time we will be resurrected into a completed and glorified body which is no longer subject to the corruption of sin. This is called “Glorification.” Sanctification continues until we die at which time we are glorified.

 

Glorification

Simply defined, Glorification is that state of perfection and glory into which the believer will be transformed in the resurrection, at the second coming of Christ. Indeed God has called those who are in Christ to share in His glory! This is a profound promise and a tremendous privilege!

1 Peter 5:10 – 10 And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you. NASB

2 Thessalonians 2:14 – 14 And it was for this He called you through our gospel, that you may gain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. NASB

In fact, it will take eternity for us to experience the glorious riches of His kindness as we partake of His glory in Christ.

Ephesians 2:7 – 7 in order that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. NASB

It was promised to us before the beginning of time, the prophets cried out in hope of it, Christ Jesus purchased it for us, it has come to live in us in part now through the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, and we now eagerly await the full manifestation of it when Christ returns.

1 Corinthians  2:7 – 7  but we speak God's wisdom in a mystery, the hidden wisdom, which God predestined before the ages to our glory; NASB

Like other aspects of salvation, glorification is the work of God. To this state of glory believers are effectually called, drawn, brought, predestined and foreordained, all by God Himself.

Romans 8:29-30 – 29 For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the first-born among many brethren; 30 and whom He predestined, these He also called; and whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified. NASB

Hebrews 2:10 – 10 For it was fitting for Him, for whom are all things, and through whom are all things, in bringing many sons to glory, to perfect the author of their salvation through sufferings. NASB

God is said to “make known to us the riches of His glory” and that He has even “prepared us beforehand for glory.”

Romans 9:23-24 – 23 And He did so in order that He might make known the riches of His glory upon vessels of mercy, which He prepared beforehand for glory, 24 even us, whom He also called, not from among Jews only, but also from among Gentiles. NASB

When Christ returns, we shall be with Him in His presence, as He takes us unto Himself. Even as we speak Christ is preparing a place for us, and we will by inheritance receive this glory to which we have been called!

Ephesians 1:18 – 18 I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, NASB

John 14:1-3 – 1 "Let not your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me. 2 "In My Father's house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. 3 "And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. NASB

When we speak of “glory,” as it applies to the believer’s state at the resurrection, we speak of that quality of life and exceeding joy in the presence of God, as our entire person is transformed, into a state of immortality and perfection. This state of glory is the partaking of the divine nature and we will be ultimately conformed into the perfect image and likeness of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

1 John 3:2 – 2 Beloved, now we are children of God, and it has not appeared as yet what we shall be. We know that, when He appears, we shall be like Him, because we shall see Him just as He is. NASB

Glorification also speaks of the sanctification and moral perfection that we will take on at the resurrection, when Christ appears. We shall be made like Christ and take on His holiness, perfection and immortality. The process of sanctification is at work in us now, but moves from one degree of glory to another until it reaches final glory, the eternal state.

2 Corinthians 3:18 – 18 But we all, with unveiled face beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit. NASB

If you are in Christ, spiritually you have been born again and raised up with Christ from that dead state of sin that you were formerly in. Your mind, will, and emotions have been transformed by the Spirit of God, you have experienced regeneration. But you still live in a mortal body, which is subject to sin and temptation, which will shortly die physically. But this physical death for the Christian is the portal by which we enter into glory. Here is our great and blessed hope, that our earthly, physical and mortal body will be transformed to be like Christ’s heavenly, spiritual and immortal body is! Our bodies will no longer be subject to sin and temptation, indeed we will put on immortality and being immortal, we will never again be subject to death or dying or pain.

Philippians 3:20-21 – 20 For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ; 21 who will transform the body of our humble state into conformity with the body of His glory, by the exertion of the power that He has even to subject all things to Himself. NASB

1 Corinthians 15:42-44 – 42 So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown a perishable body, it is raised an imperishable body; 43 it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; 44 it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body. NASB

1 Corinthians 15:51-53 – 51 Behold, I tell you a mystery; we shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52 in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet; for the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. 53 For this perishable must put on the imperishable, and this mortal must put on immortality. NASB   

These things will have their fulfillment at the second coming of Jesus Christ. It is at this time that we shall be changed and become like Him! The Bible plainly declares that at the second coming of Christ, we will participate with Him in His glory and power over death and sin. These things will happen when He comes in power and glory, when He appears, and we are gathered together with Him, and not a moment before.

Colossians 3:4 – 4 When Christ, who is our life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in

glory. NASB

1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 – 15 For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive, and remain until the coming of the Lord, shall not precede those who have fallen asleep. 16 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet of God; and the dead in Christ shall rise first. 17 Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and thus we shall always be with the Lord. NASB

Matthew 24:29-31 – 29 "But immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken,  30 and then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory. 31 "And He will send forth His angels with a great trumpet and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of the sky to the other. NASB

Daniel 12:2-3 – 2 "And many of those who sleep in the dust of the ground will awake, these to everlasting life, but the others to disgrace and everlasting contempt. 3 "And those who have insight will shine brightly like the brightness of the expanse of heaven, and those who lead the many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever. NASB

Therefore with hope we look beyond our present sufferings to that day when we will be transformed and come into His presence. The suffering of this present life, is not even worthy to be compared to the surpassing greatness of the future state of glory we will partake of!

Romans 8:18 – 18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us. NASB

2 Corinthians 4:16-17 – 16 Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day. 17 For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, NASB

Glorification is that sure and firm promise of God, that, He shall deliver us to His presence where sin will be finally eradicated from our lives, and we will be transformed to become like Him. There we shall share in His glory, with gladness and everlasting happiness in his kingdom.

 

 

 

The Cross – The Work of Jesus Christ

The Atonement PART 6 – The Results and Benefits of the Atonement

Romans 8:28

And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those

who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. NASB

 

The Results and Benefits of the Atonement

The Atonement is the ground of God’s blessing upon us and the very fountain from which flows all of the riches of His grace toward us. Here we are saying that the atonement is the wellspring of all benefit and blessing of God toward mankind. It is because of Christ’s atoning work that God can even look upon the world and mankind, with all of its sin and rebellion against Him, and sustain their life until such time as He puts everything in its proper place and order.

Romans 2:4-6 – 4 Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance? 5 But because of your stubbornness and unrepentant heart you are storing up wrath for yourself in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God, 7 who will render to every man according to his deeds: NASB

The atonement is the ground of common grace. Common grace is that grace or favor that God dispenses to unbelieving sinners who do not come to faith in Christ and be saved. In this common grace, God bears patiently with sin until such time that He brings it to justice at the final judgment. In other words, God did not immediately bring judgment upon man when Adam and Eve sinned by destroying them, but instead patiently waited through the ages as He brought about His eternal purpose in Christ. Even now, He is still fulfilling His plan of redemption and bearing patiently with sin and sinners until such time that His purposes are completed. At that time He will bring sin to its final justice and it will be eradicated from His Kingdom and His people forever. Therefore because God is fulfilling His eternal purpose in Christ through the Atonement, He not only patiently bears with sin and sinners, but showers innumerable blessings upon them which they have neither deserved nor are they thankful for them.

Romans 1:20-21 – 20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse. 21 For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God, or give thanks; but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened. NASB

God gives even to the wicked and unbelieving all that they need to sustain their lives, giving them food and shelter, sunshine and rain, even their very life and breath.

Matthew 5:44-45 – 44 "But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you 45 in order that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. NASB

Not only this but God gives them knowledge of Himself (Rom 1:21), help in restraining evil through conscience (Rom 2:15), and government (Rom 13:6), and also warnings against sin and all of its destruction and death (Rom 6:23). In fact, because God is providentially governing the history of the world, every blessing that the unbeliever receives in this life comes ultimately from an unmerited favor that God gives including life and breath and existence.

Acts 17:24-28 – 24 "The God who made the world and all things in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands; 25 neither is He served by human hands, as though He needed anything, since He Himself gives to all life and breath and all things; 26 and He made from one, every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined their appointed times, and the boundaries of their habitation, 27 that they should seek God, if perhaps they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us; 28 for in Him we live and move and exist, as even some of your own poets have said, 'For we also are His offspring.' NASB

In contrast to common grace, the believer in Christ receives eternal blessing from God which is infinite and inexhaustible. In Christ, believers are showered with all of the blessings of God, and He now views them only with favor. In this He has made countless promises for provision and care, love and blessing.

2 Corinthians 1:20 – 20 For as many as may be the promises of God, in Him they are yes; wherefore also by Him is our Amen to the glory of God through us. NASB

The Scripture plainly declares that God will “cause all things to work together,” including every single thing whether good or bad, “for good” to those who love Him.    

Romans 8:28 – 28 And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. NASB

 

In fact, God will in Christ, spend the endless ages showing believers the “surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward” them.

Ephesians 2:7 – 7 in order that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. NASB

This is because we have been fully reconciled to God in Christ and now rest in His favor and presence to bless. In this favor God is said to “freely give us all things!”

Romans 8:32 – 32 He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things? NASB

The sufficiency of this blessing of God toward believers is complete so that He promises to meet all of our needs in this life. 

Philippians 4:19-20 – 19 And my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. 20 Now to our God and Father be the glory forever and ever. Amen. NASB

2 Peter 1:2-3 – 2 Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord; 3 seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. NASB   

2 Corinthians 9:8 – 8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed; NASB

The believer is rich in every way! We, having been made heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, possess all things so that we could not be richer! We have become very children of God!

2 Corinthians 8:9 – 9 For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich. NASB

Romans 8:16-17 – 16 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him in order that we may also be glorified with Him. NASB

1 Corinthians 3:21-23 – 21 So then let no one boast in men. For all things belong to you, 22 whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or things present or things to come; all things belong to you, 23 and you belong to Christ; and Christ belongs to God. NASB

This blessing and favor of God is so exceedingly great that Paul prays that God would open the eyes of the believer to see and understand just how marvelous it is!

Ephesians 1:18-19 – 18 I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, 19 and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of the strength of His might NASB

Not only temporal benefits come to us through Christ, but also all of the heavenly benefits of God’s character and virtue are ours through the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.

Galatians 5:22-23 – 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. NASB

Of course in all of these blessings of God the greatest is that of God Himself. We now have, because of the Atonement, received God Himself as our “exceeding great reward,” and have fellowship with the Father and the Son.

1 John 1:3 – 3 what we have seen and heard we proclaim to you also, that you also may have fellowship with us; and indeed our fellowship is with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ. NASB

This means that we have come into an intimate knowledge of Christ Himself, so that we can experience all of the blessing of His power and presence through our relation to Him.

Colossians 2:2-3 – that their hearts may be encouraged, having been knit together in love, and attaining to all the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding, resulting in a true knowledge of God's mystery, that is, Christ Himself, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. NASB

The number of passages in the Bible describing the benefits of coming to know God, are simply staggering. Let us offer to God a heart of thanksgiving and a mouth filled with praise for all of the good things He has done for us in Christ! Let us rejoice in all of His goodness toward us and acknowledge His amazing love with lives that honor and worship Him!