I think most Christians miss what Jesus did when he addressed the religious world. The Law is deceptive: it appears to be almost attainable if a man will just try a little bit harder. Or at least a man can put on a front of keeping the Law.
It’s like a hurdle that I can clear if I just train a little harder and I just focus constantly.
The Pharisees seemed to have it together. Jesus came along and told them they’re not aiming at God’s bar. His bar is at least a mile high. He said God’s commandment about not committing adultery isn’t about having physical sex with a woman. It’s about looking at her with lust in your heart. His message was that you’re not going to successfully obey the Law. Obeying the Law isn’t the path to righteousness.
In fact Romans tells us the Law causes us to sin.
The Law is the path to the Son. The Son is the doorway to righteousness.
My problem for 40 years was I embraced Jesus for salvation, but then tried to follow God’s commandments in my own power. I was angry and frustrated because I was failing to follow His commandments. I loathed myself.
I’m probably denser and more stubborn than most. It wasn’t until I came to the absolute end of myself that I experienced God’s grace in overcoming the power of sin in my life. My life was radically changed in a single day. It’s a rare day I don’t look back on that encounter with Him and marvel at the miracle He wrought in me. I don’t recognize the man I am today.
This is the work of the kingdom of God, to believe on him who the Father has sent.
I believe we all had similar struggles - especially if that is what you were taught from day one and taught they are the 'only true' - where do you go? Then JESUS sees our heart and we never look back for we have been changed!
And, yes, Romans is Paul's masterpiece, IMO.
While all God's own in His Word have been encouraging - Joseph and Paul are two I'm anxious to meet. I already put 'my reservation' in for them to be apart of greeting me when I enter in. They are my family so I have no doubt those two will be there!
I agree.
"And THIS is His commandment, that we beleive in the name of His Son Jesus Christ, and love one anoher as He gave us commandment."
1 John 3:23
Great testimony.
Thanks.
I think we’ve all been there at some point or another.