Romans and the Reformation
A Series of Sermons Commemorating the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation
4 June 2017 – Pentecost - Romans 3:21-28
Obedience to God’s Word results from grace.
Paul reminds us that obedience does not save –“a man is justified by faith apart from words of the law.” Obedience to God’s law has no part in getting right with God. This is a necessary corrective to the other lessons. We need to place obedience in its proper perspective.
Why be good by obeying God’s Laws?
1. Not to earn God’s acceptance Vv. 21, 28
2. But to express gratitude for grace received. Vv. 24, 25
Points to ponder…
> Lutherans have been accused that in stressing Justification we ignore or disregard Sanctification. How does St. Paul uphold both?
> Obedience does not save. So why be good? Where does obedience stand in the life of the Christian?
> Luther said, “A Christian lives in Christ through faith, in his neighbor through love. By faith he is caught up beyond himself into God. By love he descends beneath himself into his neighbor.” How does this make sense to you?
> For next week read Romans 4:13-25 – Abraham’s faith was reckoned to him as righteousness.
Image Luther’s Seal © Ed Riojas, Higher Things
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