Exclusive Faith

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This is a sermon based on John 14:6 where Jesus makes the claim to be the only way to God. It examines the claims made in this verse and evaluates them in light of what the Bible reveals about Jesus Christ. The message stresses the fact that Christianity is an exclusive religion if we accept the validity of Jesus' claims. 

Written Excerpts:

John 14:6 ^(NKJV) Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. 

Introduction:

Well, today you’re going to hear a sermon that is not politically correct! (Not saying that I ever try to make any of my sermons PC.) In fact, I maintain that any sermon that is based on the Bible is not going to be politically correct!

There are a number of themes that have been endorsed by the politically correct thought police these days, but one of them is the theme of inclusiveness. Now, don’t get me wrong. The basic idea of inclusiveness as it relates to accepting all people regardless of race, gender, disability, etc., is fine and certainly compatible with Christian faith. The Bible clearly teaches us that all human beings are created equal and have value and worth simply because they are human and because all humans are created in the image of God.

However, in this one area of thought, we are often reminded by the “thought police” how we can or cannot view diversity. And, it is so ironic that many of the same crowd that preaches inclusiveness, will often strongly exclude at least two groups of people: Christians, and unborn babies.

Another area where inclusiveness is anti-biblical is the area of faith. It is not very popular these days at all for anyone to claim that one particular religion or faith is correct or right and all others are wrong.

This viewpoint is considered to be the height of bigotry and narrow-mindedness.

(Is Jesus Really the Only Way to God, By Dennis P. Hollinger, Ph.D., President & Coleman M. Mockler Professor of Christian Ethics)    Last year [2008], the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life published a major study on religious affiliation, beliefs and practices in the United States. One of the significant findings was that 70 percent of all Americans believe that many religions can lead to eternal life, including 65 percent of all self-identifying Christians. Perhaps the most surprising finding was that 56 percent of all Evangelical Christians believe that there are many paths, other than faith in Christ, to God and eternal life…. (See http://pewforum.org)

… Among Evangelical Christians, only 45 percent clearly affirm that a personal belief in, or relationship with, Christ is essential for eternal life. (http://www.gordonconwell.edu/resources/Is-Jesus-Really-the-Only-Way-to-God.cfm)

If this was the position of Evangelical Christians in 2008, then I can only imagine what the percentages are today. I want to propose to you today that the Christian faith is an exclusive faith, not an inclusive one. By making this proposition, I simply refer to the fact that Jesus Christ made a claim to be the only way to God. He did not allow for any possibility that there might be many ways or many roads to God.

Let us turn our attention to the passage in John 14 to see exactly what claims Jesus made regarding himself.

I.      Jesus claimed to be the right/only path to God.

This chapter starts out with Jesus’ assurance for peace. “Don’t let your heart be troubled.” Referring to disturbing news He just shared with them at the Last Supper (ch. 13). In the moment of uncertainty about the future, Jesus reassures them that He is the way.

“way” – road, path. 

In the immediate context, He has just talked to them about Father’s house, going away and coming back. Thomas asks, “How can we know the way?” Jesus responds with a very specific answer, “I am THE way…”

In the Greek language, often the definite article before a noun indicates a very specific thing. So, Jesus was not proclaiming Himself to be one of many ways (“a way”), but He was claiming to be the ONLY way.

In a world of competing philosophies, claims and confusing arguments, it is wonderful to have someone point the right direction, the right road or the right path. Jesus is that path, the only path to God and to eternal life. Jesus is the exclusive road to the destination we seek – God and heaven.

II.    Jesus claimed to be the standard of truth.

“truth” – that which corresponds with reality/ the way things actually/really are.

It also includes the idea of authenticity, genuineness, etc.

Jesus understood the disciples need for a truth standard. After Jesus was no longer with them, they would need to have something to keep them anchored in the truth; something to guide them in the right path. So Jesus is reassuring them that they could measure every idea, every activity, every notion by what they saw in Him. He is setting Himself up as the standard for judging what is true and trustworthy.

Jesus’ statement would give panic attacks to the politically correct crowd today. Most of them would cringe at the claim that there is an absolute standard of truth.

Jesus also tell them just a few chapters later, (Jn. 17) “Sanctify them through thy truth. Thy word is truth.” When Jesus is no longer with them, they can go to the Word of God for the standard of truth.

III.   Jesus claimed to be the source of life.

Not only did Jesus claim to be the only way to God and eternal life, and not only did Jesus claim to be the source and standard for truth, but He also made a claim to be the source of life itself.

He is the source of physical life.

John 1:3 (NKJV) All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made.

He is the source of spiritual/eternal life.

1 John 5:11-12 (NKJV) And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.

It’s possible to know truth but be completely spiritually dead. It is possible to be right, but without life, passion, or delight.

I don’t know about you, but I’ve seen a number of people in my years of ministry who know the Bible and doctrines very well, but they do not exhibit any qualities that attract me to Christ.

IV.   Are His claims trustworthy?

I remember sitting in a class during my senior year of high school, and hearing my teacher raise the question (without giving an answer), “What right do we [Christians / Americans] have to go into another country and tell them that they have the wrong religion, and attempt to convert them to ours?”

I had been raised in church all my life… I didn’t have an answer to his question.

Let me provide an answer by sharing some quotes from other writers.

(Lee Strobel) The uniqueness of Christianity is rooted in the uniqueness of Jesus himself. Other religious leaders say, "Follow me and I'll show you how to find the truth." But Jesus says, "I am the truth." Other religious leaders say, "Follow me and I'll show you the way to salvation." But Jesus says, "I am the way to eternal life." Other religious leaders say, "Follow me and I'll show you how you can become enlightened." But Jesus said, "I am the light of the world." (https://www.christianitytoday.com/biblestudies/bible-answers/theology/are-there-many-paths-to-god.html?start=1)

(Lee Strobel) Theologian R.C. Sproul puts it this way, "Moses could mediate on the Law. Mohammed could brandish a sword. Buddha could give personal counsel. Confucius could offer wise sayings. But none of these men was qualified to offer an atonement for the sins of the world." Jesus alone was qualified. (https://www.christianitytoday.com/biblestudies/ bible-answers/theology/are-there-many-paths-to-god.html?start=2)

(Lee Strobel) Jesus backs up his claim with unique credentials. Jesus authenticated his claim of being God by living a perfect life, by embodying the attributes of God, and by fulfilling dozens of prophecies written hundreds of years before Jesus came to this planet. Unlike other religious leaders, Jesus also authenticated who he was by performing great miracles in broad daylight, in front of skeptics. He demonstrated his mastery over nature. He demonstrated his mastery over sickness. He demonstrated his mastery over death by bringing Lazarus back to life after four days in a cold, damp tomb. In the most spectacular demonstration of his deity, Jesus fulfilled his own prediction by being resurrected from the dead, in an historical event that was witnessed by more than 500 people and that sparked a spiritual revolution that has been unparalleled in the history of the world. (https://www.christianitytoday.com/biblestudies/bible-answers/theology/are-there-many-paths-to-god.html?start=3)

Conclusion:

Years ago I learned a chorus that went something like this:

I am the way, the truth and the life

That’s what Jesus said.

I am the way, the truth and the life

That’s what Jesus said.

Without the way there is no going,

Without the truth there is no knowing;

Without the life there is no growing;

I am the way, the truth and the life

That’s what Jesus said.

Jesus Christ made some very exclusive claims and statements. But He backed up everything He said with His life.

Someone has said, “When we come to the end of life, the primary question we will have to answer to God is this: ‘What did you do with Jesus?’”

What have you done with the claims of Jesus?

Did you believe Him? Did you trust Him?

Let us sing the closing song: Only Trust Him

The Word on Salvation - Part II

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The sermon is the conclusion of a message started last week concerning the biblical message of salvation. This segment talks about the assurance of salvation and the extent of salvation. The speaker continues to follow an outline that comes from the preaching and teaching of John Wesley.

Written Excerpts:

Hebrews 10:22 ^(NKJV) let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.

Introduction:

Last Sunday I spoke to you about the plan of salvation as presented in the Bible. I told you about an outline someone created to summarize John Wesley’s preaching and teaching, and we used that outline to guide us through several Scriptures on the topic of being saved. 

If you were here last week you might remember that we talked a little in the very beginning of the message about the words “salvation” and “saved,” and tried to explain what they mean.

Repeat last week’s explanation:

When we used the word “saved” in everyday life it often refers to various experiences that people have.

Lost > saved = found.

Imminent danger (e.g. fire, drowning, storms, etc.) > saved = rescued.

Serious health issues (e.g. imminent death) > saved = spared from death and health restored.

In regards to spiritual matters, all analogies apply.

Saved = no longer lost in life without direction and purpose.

Saved = rescued from sin and its consequences.

Saved = spared from eternal death and restored to a right relationship with God.

Last Sunday I had originally intended to cover three main points in the outline that described John Wesley’s summary of salvation, but we only had time to cover two of the points. Today we will pick up with point #3 and continue.

I.       All people must be saved.

II.     All people may be saved.

III.    All People May Know Themselves Saved.

A. This principle speaks of having assurance for present salvation.

1 John 1:9 – If we confess, God WILL forgive.

Look at Eph. 2:1-8

2 Timothy 1:12 (NKJV) For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day.

Romans 8:16 (NKJV) The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,

Hebrews 10:22 ^(NKJV) let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. (Look back to verses 15-17)

Assurance for salvation is the work of the Holy Spirit based on our faith or trust that God will keep His word and do for us exactly what He said He would do. 

Many Bible scholars believe that there are three components to genuine faith.

- An intellectual component. Process the claims of Christ and the Bible and make an intellectual decision to accept.

- A volitional component. The choice of the will to believe, embrace and follow through with actions.

- A spiritual/emotional component. The Holy Spirit witnesses to our hearts with the assurance that God has done what He said.

The witness of the Spirit comes after the mind has examined the claims of the gospel, and the will has chosen to believe and respond or act upon the truth that is believed. In a book I published on the topic of faith, I described the assurance that comes by the witness of the Spirit in this way:

So it is with Christian faith. Once our minds and hearts agree to embrace the truth of the gospel and we confirm it by making decisions and taking actions to implement the truth in practical ways, then the Holy Spirit brings the kind of assurance expressed by the hymn writer, Clara T. Williams,

Hallelujah! I have found Him,

Whom my soul so long has craved.

Jesus satisfies my longings;

Through His blood I now am saved!”

B. This principle speaks of having assurance for future salvation.

Not only may we have the assurance that we are presently saved from our sins and are in a right relationship with God, but we may also have the assurance that we will be saved eternally after this life has ended.

Titus 1:2 (NKJV) [After introducing himself to his readers, Paul speaks about having]   hope of eternal life which God, who cannot lie, promised before time began,

1 John 5:11-13 (NKJV) And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God.

Again, this assurance is completely based on the character of God whom we trust to keep His promises given in His Word for all who believe the gospel.

IV.    All People May Be Saved to the Uttermost.

There is a message in Scripture that was emphasized strongly by the Methodist revival in England. It is the message of transformation in personal life and in society.

Some of you have heard me say many times that there are plenty of professing Christians who are only interested in confessing faith in Christ and making a decision to accept Him, so they can “get their ticket to heaven” and obtain their “fire insurance against hell.” For them, being a believer is only a transaction that provides the main benefit they’re after – getting to heaven and avoiding hell. They do not seem all that interested in letting the truth of the gospel penetrate their whole being and make a complete transformation in their lives.

But the message of Jesus, the Apostles and saints of God ever since is that the gospel is expected to have a transforming effect on every believer as we allow the Spirit of God to conform us into the image of Christ, rather than remaining in our former life of selfishness. When individual believers are being transformed, it ultimately has an effect upon society as more and more people become followers of Christ.

Look at Hebrews 10:19-25 for an example of how this knowledge and assurance the apostle has just mentioned is supposed to affect not only our hearts but our conduct. The whole emphasis in Scripture on sanctification and holiness for believers is for our transformation and development as disciples.

1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 ^(NKJV) Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it.

When a faithful study of Scripture is done it is evident that the norm of the Christian life is depicted like this:

There is a moment when the person recognizes his/her sinful condition and the judgment they deserve for violating God’s commands. There is sorrow, repentance, surrender and faith in Christ that brings spiritual life and forgiveness. We talked about this last Sunday as “being saved,” or being “born again.” Following the new birth, the believer is learning more and more what being a Christian is all about and striving to conform his life to the principles in the Bible that he is learning. Eventually, as spiritual growth and development continues, there is a moment of complete and total abandonment to God’s control and God’s will as the Spirit cleanses away the self-will and brings committed love for God and love for people. Then, growth and maturity in grace is an ever-living and dynamic principle that continues to control the life of the believer until he comes to the end of life and goes home to glory.

Conclusion:

John Wesley truly believed that all “men” (people) could be saved to the uttermost. He believed that people could be completely transformed by the grace of God and the power of the Spirit. So, he developed intentional discipleship classes and accountability groups to help believers inspire and encourage one another to further development in spiritual grace.

His emphasis in preaching and his method of developing serious disciples of Jesus spread all across England and brought about a revival that not only gave thousands of people faith, but it completely transformed the nation.

I’ve said before, if we were truly seeing people turning to Christ and experiencing spiritual revival like some have claimed we are, then the social and moral climate of our communities and our nation would be different than it currently is.

But, it is not hopeless! God still changes lives and changed lives can change culture. It is imperative for all of us to not only be saved, but to seek all God has for us each and every day so we are completely transformed into the image of Christ.

Let’s close the service by singing the hymn listed in the bulletin.

Saved to the Uttermost

The Word on Salvation - Part I

(To download an mp3 file of this message, click on the title above. To listen online, click on the play button of the audio player shown.)

This is a sermon that summarizes some basic principles about the plan of salvation as presented in the Bible. The pastor follows an outline that has been attributed to the thinking and messages of John Wesley, the "Father of Methodism."

Written Excerpts:

John 3:3, 7 ^(NKJV) Jesus answered and said to him, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God."  Do not marvel that I said to you, 'You must be born again.'

Introduction:

I think I may have mentioned before that I am currently receiving a daily email devotional reading that I have subscribed and is written by a pastor/theologian by the name of John Piper. A few weeks ago the devotional for the day included an outline he suggested as a way to think about the salvation that has been provided and offered by God to each of us. I had planned to use that outline and develop a sermon with it for today.

However, this past week as we attended the family camp for the Fellowship of Bible Churches, the preacher gave a message about salvation using an outline that I liked better than the one I had planned to use. So, I wish to preach to you today using part of the outline he used, then I plan to use the remainder of the outline next Sunday to finish speaking on the topic of salvation.

The preacher at family camp acknowledged at the beginning of his sermon that the outline he was using was “borrowed” from John Wesley, the Anglican minister who lived in the 1700’s and is credited as being the “Father of the Methodist Church.” After some additional study, I learned that these points may not have been exactly stated by John Wesley, but they represent a summary of his teaching and preaching in contrast to the theology taught by Calvinism in many Christian churches. These points only pertain to Wesley’s views regarding salvation and are not intended to represent his entire theology.

There were a total of five points in the outline, but I only wish to speak on three of them today. The Lord willing, we will consider the other two points next Sunday.

1. All people must be saved.

2. All people may be saved.

3. All people may know themselves saved.

Before we go any farther in the message I would like to take a moment to talk about terminology.

“Salvation” – The word “salvation” is a noun that refers to the process and condition of being “saved.”

Just in case you’re interested, the theology term for the study of salvation is: “soteriology.”

When we used the word “saved” in everyday life it often refers to various experiences that people have.

Lost > saved = found.

Imminent danger (e.g. fire, drowning, storms, etc.) > saved = rescued.

Serious health issues (e.g. imminent death) > saved = spared from death and health restored.

In regards to spiritual matters, all analogies apply.

Saved = no longer lost in life without direction and purpose.

Saved = rescued from sin and its consequences.

Saved = spared from eternal death and restored to a right relationship with God.

In our Scripture reading today, we especially pointed out verses 3 & 7 which speak of being “born again.”

“Born Again” is synonymous with “Saved”

Jesus said, “You MUST be born again!” Or, “You must be saved.”

So let us now consider the three points we mentioned a few minutes ago, along with many Scriptures that support each point.

I.     All People Must Be Saved.

A. This principle speaks of universal need.

All human beings are born into this world with an inherited inclination toward sin and rebellion against God.

Romans 3:10-12 (NKJV) As it is written: "There is none righteous, no, not one; There is none who understands; There is none who seeks after God. They have all turned aside; They have together become unprofitable; There is none who does good, no, not one."

Romans 3:23 (NKJV) for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,

B. This principle speaks of serious urgency.

All MUST be saved, because the only alternative is eternal destruction and torment.

Romans 6:23 (NKJV) For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Hebrews 10:28-31 (NKJV) Anyone who has rejected Moses' law dies without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. Of how much worse punishment, do you suppose, will he be thought worthy who has trampled the Son of God underfoot, counted the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified a common thing, and insulted the Spirit of grace? For we know Him who said, "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," says the Lord. And again, "The LORD will judge His people." It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.

Revelation 21:8 (NKJV) But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death."

Revelation 20:11-15 (NKJV) Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away. And there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books. The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works. Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.

C. This principle speaks of a divine remedy for our condition.

“Be Saved” – When we acknowledge that all must be saved, we are also acknowledging that there is such a thing as “a way to be saved.”

We just shared several passages of Scripture that revealed the judgment of God against sinners who have not come to God in faith and are not “written in the book of life.”

But, the Bible gives multiple references to the fact that God has provided a way for people to be saved from judgment.

John 3:16

1 Peter 3:18 (NKJV) For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive by the Spirit,

Ephesians 1:7 (NKJV) In Him [i.e. Christ] we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace

II.    All People May Be Saved.

A. This principle speaks about universal invitation and opportunity for salvation.

There is a segment of the Christian church that believes and preaches that God has decreed from eternity past who will be saved and who will be doomed or eternally lost. They would have us believe that the Bible teaches a doctrine of election in salvation where God chose prior to creation that some humans would be redeemed and saved from judgment and others were chosen/selected/ condemned to be eternally lost and tormented.

This is a theological issue that cannot be easily described in a short period of time, but… There are clear passages that indicate God desires and provides for the entire human race to be saved.

1 John 2:2 (NKJV) And He Himself is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the whole world.

1 Timothy 4:10 (NKJV) … we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe.

1 Timothy 2:3-4 (NKJV) For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

2 Peter 3:9 (NKJV) The Lord is … longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.

Heard on Christian radio station a week ago:

“God desires for everyone to be saved. [It is His wish for them to be saved.] But He decreed that some would be lost.” (This statement comes from the same kind of theologians who say God’s will cannot be thwarted or opposed.)

B. This principle speaks of the choice to be saved.

“May” – indicates the possibility but not the certainty. It is our God-given privilege to choose whether we will respond to the call of God’s Spirit for salvation or not.

The only way I know that sovereign election and human choice can be united is to say something like this: “God decreed before creation that whosoever will believe, shall be saved.”

John 3:16 … whosoever believeth in him shall not perish…

Romans 10:13 (NKJV) For "whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved."

Revelation 22:17 (KJV) … whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.

To choose to be saved is to choose to accept the conditions for salvation. The Bible speaks of at least three conditions for salvation…

Repentance, Confession, and Faith

(We do not have time to proceed to the third point today, so we'll begin with it next Sunday.)

Conclusion:

I assume that many of us here today have already been saved; having asked for God’s forgiveness and repented or turned away from our sin and trusted in Christ.

However, I am also assuming that there may be some here today who have not been saved, or may have turned away from God after once trusting in Christ in the past.

I want to encourage you today to seek the Lord.

You MUST be saved!

You MAY be saved!

Let’s end the service by standing together and singing Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling

A Nation that Is Blessed

This is a sermon that was offered in recognition of America's Independence Day and is based on the text in Psalm 33:12. Due to technical problems the audio recording of the message is not available.

Written Excerpts:

Psalm 33:12 ^(NKJV) Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, The people He has chosen as His own inheritance.

Introduction:

At the beginning of this service today we took a little time to talk about our nation’s independence and refer to some of the religious/spiritual heritage our nation was founded upon. As I considered the significance of our spiritual heritage, I recalled this verse from Ps. 33:12.

With the help of the Lord, I would like to speak to you today about the meaning of this verse and try to apply it to both our nation and to each of us personally.

I.     Who is God?

(Following breakdown of Ps. is from Tyndale Commentary)

33:1-3. A New Song – “The psalm begins with a call for the congregation (the righteous/the upright) to worship God with music and enthusiasm.”

“New Song” – term for victory song

(Keil and Delitzsch Commentary) – A "new song" is one which, in consequence of some new mighty deeds of God, comes from a new impulse of gratitude in the heart…”

33:4-5. The Word of God – “God’s word is right and true, and his actions in the world demonstrate his (covenantal) faithfulness.”

33:6-9. God Made the Heavens by His Word – The pagans believed that God or gods were all part of creation, but the Bible, including this psalm, declare that the creation is separate from God. And, God is the Creator. This demonstrates His awesome power, creativity and care of creation.

33:10-11. God’s Plans Prevail – “These verses contrast the plans of the Lord with the plans of the nations.”

33:12-15. God Sees All – [vv. 13-15] “God watches over all his people. He is concerned about their inner life (the hearts of all) and their actions (everything they do).”

33:16-19. God Saves – “Military success is not found in strength of numbers or in superior armaments, but rather in … God the Warrior who is able to deliver them from death through battle, famine or any other disaster.”

The Psalmist lays out a complete description of this one true God who is infinitely different and apart from all other gods. Who He is and what He has done is beyond compare to any gods of the pagans.

II.    Who is the nation?

“nation” –  (Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament) “… the basic idea is that of a defined body or group of people, or some specific large segment of a given body. The context will generally indicate the specific quality or characteristic which is to be understood…. The term gôy is used especially to refer to specifically defined political, ethnic or territorial groups of people…” 

(Tyndale Commentary) – v. 12; “However, there is one exception among the nations: the nation God chose for his inheritance, which of course is Israel (Exod. 19:3-6; Deut. 7:7-11). No other nation, ancient or modern, fits this category.”

The nation, whether Israel or Christian believers, is made up of those who earnestly seek to live a godly life. Today, God’s people [includes] the church. And we must keep in mind that God chose Israel [and the church] not just to bless them, but to bless all the nations through them.” The NT repeatedly reminds us that those who put their trust in Jesus Christ are grafted into Israel. The believers in Christ are fellow-heirs of the promises.

Psalm 33:1-3 – “The call contained in [these three verses] is addressed to the righteous and upright, who earnestly seek to live a godly and God-pleasing life, and the sole determining rule of whose conduct is the will and good pleasure of God.” (Keil and Delitzsch Commentary)

So, the nation, whether we’re talking about Israel or Christian believers, is that group of people who “seek to live godly and according to the will and good pleasure of God.”

III.  What does it mean?

Compare: Deuteronomy 33:29 ^(NKJV) Happy are you, O Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by the LORD, The shield of your help And the sword of your majesty! Your enemies shall submit to you, And you shall tread down their high places."

The psalm obviously means that this awesome God has set His unfailing love upon Israel, calling out and creating a nation that was not a nation, beginning with Abraham. It should be seen as a direct contrast and distinction from the other nations all around them who believed that the gods they worshiped were territorial & were “responsible” for their protection from enemies, and for victories in conquering other nations.

e.g. – The Assyrian king brags against Israel saying that none of the gods of all the other nations he had conquered were able to save those people from his army. The God of Israel is all-powerful and He sets His unfailing love upon His people. He accomplishes all the things mentioned in preceding verses of this psalm.

But, He is not only Israel’s God because He chose them, but He is Israel’s God as long as they choose Him! When Israel abandons their allegiance to the Lord, and they disobey His clear commands, then God withdraws His protection and allows them to be conquered and destroyed by enemies. He’s still their God, but He isn’t delivering them from enemies as He has in the past. In that sense, they are no longer blessed.

In the same way, we not only are blessed because God has chosen “whosoever will” to be His people, but we are blessed as long as we cling to His Word and obey His will. 

I firmly believe that our nation has been abundantly blessed because of the clear and intentional commitment to the principles of the Bible in our founding documents. I believe our nation has been blessed because of our commitment to support and defend the nation of Israel. 

But, I am saddened to say that our nation has had decades of abandoning the principles of Scripture and therefore have no basis for God’s continued blessing. Except, if we follow the principle of 2 Chron. 7:14. This is not only true of our nation, but it is true of the church.

Institutional church denominations and organizations are rapidly abandoning the clear teachings of Scripture in favor of accommodating the immoral values of this world. So many have fallen prey to the world’s definition of tolerance and compassion and now practice a religion that has no moral direction or standards.

Let us purpose in our hearts to be a people that is devoted to the Word of God and pray for a revival of biblical faith and morality in our land.

I want to invite you to stand together and sing our closing song:

If My People’s Hearts Are Humbled

Reconciled to God

This is a sermon based on Romans 5:10 that was given for a worship service in which we celebrated the sacrament of Communion. Due to technical problems, the audio recording is not available.

Written Excerpts:

Romans 5:10 ^(NKJV) For if when 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.

Introduction:

I want to begin my message today with two different stories about reconciliation; the first one humorously portrays an insincere attempt at reconciliation, and the second one describes the real deal.

(sermonillustrations.com) One New Year's Eve at London's Garrick Club, British dramatist Frederick Lonsdale was asked by Symour Hicks to reconcile with a fellow member. The two had quarreled in the past and never restored their friendship. "You must," Hicks said to Lonsdale. "It is very unkind to be unfriendly at such a time. Go over now and wish him a happy New Year."

So Lonsdale crossed the room and spoke to his enemy. "I wish you a happy New Year," he said, "but only one."

On a much different note:

I came across a story about Joe Avila, a 17-year staff member of an organization called Prison Fellowship.

Long before becoming employed by Prison Fellowship, Joe was involved in a drunk-driving accident that took the life of a teenage girl by the name of Amy Wall.

Joe was charged with 2^nd-degree murder and jailed. Apparently, while Joe was incarcerated, he entered a 6-month sobriety program with the Salvation Army. After completing a few months of the program, Joe went back to court and changed his plea to “guilty.” The judge gave him the maximum sentence of 12 years, stating that he hoped Joe would change.

The story didn’t provide details of Joe’s spiritual journey, except to say that while he was in prison he spent his time helping in the chapel, sharing the Gospel with other prisoners and helping with hospice patients. Because of the tremendous change in his life, Joe was released from prison after serving a total of 7 ½ years.

Not long after his release, Amy’s brother requested to meet with Joe and this began a long journey of reconciliation with Amy’s entire family. Joe repeatedly expressed his sorrow and sought forgiveness from each member of Amy’s family. Eventually the day came when Amy’s father, gave Joe a hug and said, “I love you Joe.” (Adapted from https://www.prisonfellowship.org/2016/11/joe-amy-story-reconciliation/)

This truly is a remarkable story of reconciliation. It is one that many people, including Christians, would think impossible. However, because of genuine repentance and genuine forgiveness; sincere reconciliation was made possible. Joe’s experience with the Wall family after taking the life of their daughter & sister, Amy, is just a small example of the reconciliation that can take place between a perfectly holy God and a wretched sinner.

Before we share the sacrament of communion, I want to speak to you briefly today about the possibility of being reconciled to God. As we consider the subject of reconciliation with God, there are three important principles we must be reminded of.

I.     Sinners are the objects of God’s wrath.

Romans 1:18 (NKJV) For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness,

This is only one of many verses in the Bible that describe the wrath of God toward those who stand in opposition to His holiness because of their sin and ungodliness. The wrath of God is not merely the fact of being irritated or offended because God isn’t getting His way, or because we choose to go our way rather than His.

God’s wrath is not to be understood as “blowing His top” or “losing His cool” or “throwing a tantrum” because things aren’t going right. No, the wrath of God is the justifiable and understandable consequence of a perfectly holy God addressing anything that violates His standard of righteousness and perfection. Therefore, the Bible uses words like enmity, hostility and enemies to describe the relationship (or should we say lack of relationship) that exists between us and Him. And, Scripture often uses the word judgment to describe the result of this hostile relationship.

Before we come to Christ, we all are “by nature the children of wrath.” (According to Eph. 2:3)

We do not like to talk about the wrath of God…

The feelings that Amy Wall’s family originally felt toward Joe Avila were the natural results of the horrible crime he committed that took away the life of their young loved one. We can understand how they would want to see the man suffer for what he had done. The main difference however, is that kind of anger or wrath is tied up with a passion for revenge or payback. With God, on the other hand, it is a requirement of His holiness to keep everything in harmony with perfect justice. If justice isn’t real, then holiness isn’t.

Before we move on, we should also mention that the Bible portrays the hostility to be directed from man toward God as well. The relationship between us is not only broken because of God’s wrath, but also because of our anger and resentment over God requiring our worship and allegiance. In our sinful state we resent the demand that we “Have no other gods before Him.” We are incensed over the fact that we can’t just go our own way and do our own thing and still hope for a pleasant after life, or even no after life.

So, the hostility goes both ways.

II.    Jesus Christ, by His death, provided atonement.

It is interesting to note that the word that is translated “reconciliation” is also the same word that is sometimes translated “atonement.”

Romans 5¹¹ And not only that, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation.

Through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, paying the sentence of death for all sinners, atonement is made to erase the hostility and wrath of God.

The Bible uses different terms to describe the transaction that occurs. Terms like: redemption; justification; forgiveness; etc. These all speak to the biblical truth that the blood of Jesus Christ provides the basis for our forgiveness.

The doctrine of justification is the biblical truth of our record of sin being erased. You’ve heard me mention before that the word justify is very similar to our current understanding of the word “expunge.” Before coming to faith in Christ, our record of sins and “crimes” against the holiness of God is lengthy, dark and vile. But when we actively put our faith in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, our record is expunged and it is as though we never, ever sinned.

In the hymn, Arise, My Soul, Arise, Charles Wesley wrote:

Five bleeding wounds he bears, received on Calvary;

They pour effectual prayers, they strongly plead for me.

Forgive him, oh forgive, they cry;

Forgive him, oh forgive they cry;

Nor let that ransomed sinner die.

The Father hears him pray, His dear Anointed One

He cannot turn away the presence of His Son.

His Spirit answers to the blood,

His Spirit answers to the blood;

And tells me I am born of God.

III.  Reconciliation results between both parties.

Romans 5:10-11 ^(NKJV) For if when 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. And not only that, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation.

(The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia) He is not arguing that if we have begun to love God we may reckon upon His doing so and so for us, but because He has done so much, we may expect Him to do more.  The verse is parallel to the preceding, and the being reconciled is on the same plane as being justified; the being justified was God's action, and so is the reconciling.  Justification delivers from "the wrath of God"; reconciliation takes effect upon enemies. – Archibald M'caig

Because of the blood sacrifice of Jesus Christ in our place, God’s wrath is turned away and we now become His “beloved.” In Ephesians, Paul describes it by saying we are no longer foreigners (aliens) and strangers outside of the household of God, but we are now adopted into the family and are called sons of God.

Where there was tension, conflict, war and hostility, is now replaced by peace, communion, and fellowship.

Going back to Wesley’s hymn, Arise, My Soul, Arise:

He continues in the last verse…

My God is reconciled, His pardoning voice I hear

He owns me for His child, I can no longer fear.

With confidence I now draw nigh,

With confidence I now draw nigh;

And Father, Abba Father, cry!

Conclusion:

It is only through the blood of Jesus Christ that we have been reconciled to God.

Today, we will again share the sacrament of communion to remember and celebrate the sacrifice that Jesus made.

Before we share communion, let us sing the song in our hymnals.

I Gave My Life for Thee