Jesus Is the Only Savior - Romans 9:33-10:15 - November 2, 2008

Sunday school lesson - Jesus Is the Only Savior – November 2, 2008

We continue our study in the book of Romans.

Our scripture is Romans 9:33- 10:15.

In today’s world it is difficult for many people to acknowledge that there is only one way to heaven and that way is through JESUS CHRIST. We can see other people who pray many times a day or do difficult feats to follow a religious practice. Often, we believe that their sincerity will earn them a right to heaven.

But why wonder and guess where you will spend eternity when JESUS tells us in:

John 14:6:

6 Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.
John 5:24:
24 “I assure you: Anyone who hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment but has passed from death to life.

To me there is no clearer message for a person seeking GOD and eternal life. Believers in CHRIST have the Good News. We have the truth and not fantasy. We have the HOLY SPIRIT in our hearts WHO confirms that we are GOD’S children. GOD wants HIS children to tell others the Good News of CHRIST. HE is their hope and salvation.

In Galatians 2: 19-21 Paul tells us that if there was any other way to GOD, then CHRIST died for nothing:

19 For through the law I have died to the law, that I might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ; 20 and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the flesh,[10] The physical body I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. 21 I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died for nothing.

Paul had died to the law to be freed from the law so he could live as GOD directed his life. He had died when CHRIST died on the cross but he had been born-again to continue his life in the flesh through faith and the power of CHRIST in him. The life giving power of the flesh was dead and had been replaced with the eternal life giving power of GOD through his rebirth in his spirit.

Let’s read Romans 9:33:

33 As it is written: Look! I am putting a stone in Zion to stumble over, and a rock to trip over, yet the one who believes on Him will not be put to shame.[26] Isaiah 8:14; 28:16
The Apostle Paul had studied the Old Testament scriptures under the famed Sanhedrin teacher Gamaliel and he knew the scriptures. Paul had been a Pharisee before his conversion experience on the road to Damascus.

Acts 22:3:

3 He continued, “I am a Jewish man, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city[1] Probably Jerusalem, but others think Tarsus at the feet of Gamaliel, and educated according to the strict view of our patriarchal law. Being zealous for God, just as all of you are today,
Paul used two (2) Old Testament references in verse 33:

Isaiah 28:16:

16 Therefore the Lord God said: “Look, I have laid a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation; the one who believes will be unshakable.[7] Lit will not hurry [8] 1 Pt 2:6

Isaiah 8:14:

14 He will be a sanctuary; but for the two houses of Israel, He will be a stone to stumble over and a rock to trip over, and a trap and a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem.

This stone is JESUS CHRIST and all who believe in HIM will be unshakable because they will be on a solid rock foundation. CHRIST will be a sanctuary to believers but to the unbeliever HE will be a stone to stumble over.

A believer builds upon the solid unshakable foundation of the stone, which is CHRIST and unbelievers who reject the stone are crushed by the stone. GOD will do all HE can to reveal truth to all humans but HE leaves the decision to the person.

Have you made the decision to ask CHRIST to forgive you of your sins and asked HIM to come into your life? If not, please do it now. He has placed this stone in front of you today for you to pause and reflect on where you will spend eternity. CHRIST is the only way to GOD. DO not accept or believe there is any other way. It is simple. It is GOD reaching out HIS hand to you. Why not accept it and let HIM rescue you from certain death and give you life eternal? The choice is yours.

Let’s read Romans 10:1-3:

1 Brothers, my heart’s desire and prayer to God concerning them[1] Other mss read God for Israel is for their salvation! 2 I can testify about them that they have zeal for God, but not according to knowledge. 3 Because they disregarded the righteousness from God and attempted to establish their own righteousness, they have not submitted to God’s righteousness.

Paul said his heart’s desire was for all Israelites or his countrymen to be saved. Of all people, the Israelites should know the truth. They have had the scriptures and GOD had led them for thousands of years. GOD had given them the scriptures prophesying the coming of the Messiah. CHRIST came to earth as foretold in the scriptures and lived among them. The vast majority of the Jewish religious leaders rejected HIM. They prided themselves with their ability to follow the law, which in their minds made them righteous. Therefore, they did not need CHRIST to make them righteous or acceptable to GOD.

Paul knew their zeal to perform and earn their way to GOD because he had been where they were. Paul had been zealous to crush the group called Christians until he encountered CHRIST on the road to Damascus. Paul was earning his way to GOD and in a profound conversion experience, he saw the truth that he had been searching for. Once he found the truth, he was zealous for the LORD. His heart was heavy for those still immersed in darkness and self-righteousness. They may have recognized the truth but would not submit to GOD through CHRIST because they considered themselves righteous by observing the law. They did not need a SAVIOR other than their own ability.

Paul stated in verse 2 that they had zeal but it was not based upon knowledge of the truth . A person can be very sincere and be very zealous in what they believe but be dead wrong because they are without truth. A person must have the knowledge of the truth. CHRIST said in John 14:6 that HE is the truth. Have you been searching for the truth? You just found it. Truth is CHRIST.

Let’s read Romans 10:4-13:
4 For Christ is the end[2] Or goal of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes. 5 For Moses writes about the righteousness that is from the law: The one who does these things will live by them.[3] Lv 18:5 6 But the righteousness that comes from faith speaks like this: Do not say in your heart, “Who will go up to heaven?”[4] Dt 9:4; 30:12 that is, to bring Christ down 7 or, “Who will go down into the • abyss?”[5] Dt 30:13 that is, to bring Christ up from the dead. 8 On the contrary, what does it say? The message is near you, in your mouth and in your heart.[6] Dt 30:14 This is the message of faith that we proclaim: 9 if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 With the heart one believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth one confesses, resulting in salvation. 11 Now the Scripture says, No one who believes on Him will be put to shame,[7] Isaiah 28:16 12 for there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, since the same Lord of all is rich to all who call on Him. 13 For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.[8] Jl 2:32

People search for truth. Most of us have been taught the “Thou shall not’s” from early childhood, which will please GOD. The law gets our attention and we try to live by the law and find that we cannot live as the law dictates. We become a slave to the law. The law becomes a burden. Those who try to follow the law show they are sincere in their desire to please GOD. All of their efforts fail because it is impossible to keep both the letter and spirit of the law.

When they get to the end of their ability to keep and obey the law through their efforts, CHRIST is there. In essence, HE is saying you have tried it your way now accept ME, because I have fulfilled both the letter and spirit of the law for you. I died where you should have died because you failed to fulfill the requirements of the law. Accept MY free gift of eternal life and the gift of grace. Refer back to John 5:24.

All believers are made righteous by GOD. This was accomplished when CHRIST gave HIS life on the cross because HE was the perfect sacrifice. Paul expressed this in:

2 Corinthians 5:21:

21 For He (GOD) made Him (JESUS) who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

Paul referred to a statement from Leviticus 18:5, which he knew those who believed in following the law would reference regarding the adequacy of the law:

5 Keep My statutes and ordinances; a person will live if he does them.[3] Rm 10:5; Gl 3:12 I am the Lord.

Paul saw that the problem was that no one could keep the letter and spirit of the law. He knew that the law showed people how far short they fell in trying to keep the law and there was a solution to the problem.

Paul continued to use the Old Testament scriptures to make his points. He refers to Deuteronomy 30:12-14 where Moses is telling the people that the law was accessible and understandable:

12 It is not in heaven, so that you have to ask, ‘Who will go up to heaven, get it for us, and proclaim it to us so that we may follow it?’ 13 And it is not across the sea, so that you have to ask, ‘Who will cross the sea, get it for us, and proclaim it to us so that we may follow it?’ 14 But the message is very near you, in your mouth and in your heart, so that you may follow it.[7] Rm 10:6–8

Moses is saying a person does not have to go to heaven or cross the sea to get the law. But the law is right here with you. Paul uses this to reveal the fact that a person does not have to run hither and yon searching for CHRIST. HE is as close as your heart and mouth. CHRIST is seeking the lost and all the lost person has to do is open his or her mouth and ask CHRIST to forgive him or her of his or her sins and to ask HIM to come into his or her life. This is very simple but a life changing experience. A person is changed in an instant through the miracle of rebirth.

Paul states this simple process in verses 9-13. Salvation is open to everyone and is all around a person. All he or she needs to do is to reach out and claim it. Salvation is free and available to everyone who wants it but CHRIST is the only way. It is a matter of the heart.

All who accept CHRIST as their SAVIOR can stand boldly before GOD on Judgment Day and not suffer the shame of rejecting CHRIST.

Let’s read Romans 10:14-15:

14 But how can they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how can they believe without hearing about Him? And how can they hear without a preacher? 15 And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: How welcome[9] Or timely, or beautiful are the feet of those[10] Other mss read feet of those who announce the gospel of peace, of those who announce the gospel of good things![11] Isaiah 52:7; Nah 1:15

All believers are GOD’S representatives here upon earth. Believers are the light of the world and the salt of the earth. How can the lost person know the truth of the gospel? All believers have the truth and they are to share the good news with others, as GOD leads them. GOD calls some to be preachers who are to go, as GOD leads them, to spread the message of CHRIST to the lost. Others are called to witness to those around them. All believers have to make a choice whether or not to respond to GOD’S call. The call may be to preach to the masses or to live an obedient life or give a cup of cold water. Just be willing to respond as GOD leads you. A believer offers the Good News of eternal life to those helplessly lost to sin and death. CHRIST is the message of hope to the lost. A person drowning welcomes a life jacket or a helping hand to rescue him or her from certain death. Salvation is a welcomed message to those who are dying because of sin.

We who know the truth must share the truth as the HOLY SPIRIT leads us and empowers us. GOD will equip us with the words we need to say. GOD does the saving, all we do is deliver the message that GOD lays upon our hearts. HE does the rest. We may get the privilege to help a new believer grow in CHRIST.

The Holy Spirit is Essential to a Holy Life - Romans 8:1-30 - October 26, 2008

Sunday School Lesson – The Holy Spirit is Essential to a Holy Life – October 26, 2008

This is lesson four (4) in our study.

Our scripture is Romans 8:1-30.

In our last study Paul revealed the internal struggle he had with sin before GOD revealed to him the role of GOD’S law and the power of the indwelling CHRIST. The flesh wars against the born-again Spirit. Believers aid and abet this war because they cling to the flesh nature and want to control their own destiny. Believers must die to self and allow CHRIST to rule in their hearts before they can comprehend and perceive the power of the HOLY SPIRIT in their lives. The HOLY SPIRIT is fully in believers life the instant they receive CHRIST as SAVIOR but we squelch the power of the HOLY SPIRIT by allowing the flesh mind-set to rule.

CHRIST’S shed blood makes all humans eligible to receive CHRIST because CHRIST’S shed blood paid the price for sin and opened the pathway to GOD through CHRIST. CHRIST broke the barrier of sin. Each person has to make a decision whether or not to receive CHRIST as his or her SAVIOR. When people make the decision to ask CHRIST to forgive them their sin and to come into their lives, HE does. Believers experience the miracle of rebirth in their spirit.

This ushers in a flood of gifts, promises and the HOLY SPIRIT. All believers still have a decision to make. Who rules their lives, their old nature or their new nature in CHRIST? When the old nature rules, we refer to those Christians as carnal Christians. When CHRIST rules their lives, we refer to them as Spirit-filled Christians.

The question is once believers are Spirit-filled, are they always Spirit-filled? That is a yes and no answer. A Christian never loses the HOLY SPIRIT, however, a Christian can allow his or her flesh nature to take over and rule his or her Spirit nature. What is the solution? To me, at this point in my journey, it is all about building and maintaining the relationship with CHRIST on a daily basis. It is getting to know CHRIST as an intimate best friend. Confide in HIM all your secrets, disappointments, questions, doubts, fears, joys, praises, hopes, dreams, aspirations, desires and the list goes on.

It is all about the will which emanates from the mind. Before a person becomes a Christian, the mind set is to follow the dictates of the flesh. When a person begins to consider becoming a Christian, the flesh mind often introduces many barriers and questions for him or her not becoming a Christian. Of course, Satan enters the battle. Satan does not want a person to become a Christian and fights through the flesh mind, without revealing himself.

Once a person becomes a Christian then Satan becomes his or her enemy and the real war begins. Satan wants the Christian to maintain the flesh mind-set. Many Christians remain in the flesh mind-set stage or carnal Christian stage. This is where the Christian wants to do things his or her way rather than being led by the HOLY SPIRIT. This is when church members want to split and feelings are hurt because Christians allow the flesh mind-set to rule. Christians have not died to self and self rules. Does this mean that Christians need to remain in a church where they are not being fed spiritually? No, not unless the HOLY SPIRIT leads him or her to remain for a purpose or a calling to minister.

Satan does not want a Christian to be led by the HOLY SPIRIT but GOD does; thus the war within. The war within is the process of sanctification. It is the process of the HOLY SPIRIT renewing the flesh mind-set to develop the Spirit mind-set. Paul reveals this concept in Romans 12:2:

2 Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.

What is your mind-set? Is it a flesh mind-set or a Spirit mind-set? What mind-set do you want? That requires a decision. Talk to the LORD now and tell HIM you want the Spirit mind-set and ask HIM to help you create the Spirit mind-set. Ask HIM to reveal to you anything that is a hindrance or barrier to you developing the Spirit mind-set. Get ready for an awesome journey.

In our study today, Paul describes two (2) people, one without CHRIST and one with CHRIST. Paul considers the person with CHRIST to be led by the HOLY SPIRIT because he or she has the mind-set of the Spirit and the person without CHRIST, to be led by the flesh.

Those without CHRIST have a hierarchy lifestyle which relates to the trinity of humans – body, soul and spirit. The trinity of humans can manifest certain mind-sets depending on who rules, the body or flesh, soul or the spirit. When the body or flesh rules that person seeks all the desires of the flesh whatever they are. Whatever pleases his or her flesh is important to him or her. When the soul rules that person uses some constraint but can flip between the desires of the flesh and controlling the flesh. When the spirit rules a person’s life, keep in mind this is the non-Christian, his or her mind-set is toward living a life with high moral standards, tries to be honest but lives in his or her strength. They are all without CHRIST.

As mentioned earlier, Paul had in mind two (2) mind-sets, those without CHRIST and those with CHRIST. I am introducing a third mind-set. The person who has CHRIST but his or her mind-set is toward the flesh mind-set. The mind-set of the carnal Christian is a sliding scale and can slide from leaning toward the flesh to the more Spiritual. The position of the scale depends upon our determination, strength and will. Is a believer willing to let go of the things of the flesh to serve GOD? Sanctification is the process of allowing GOD, through the HOLY SPIRIT to move the scale to the Spirit mind-set.

I personally want my scale to be fully Spiritual but I still struggle because my nature is to get ahead of GOD rather than waiting upon HIM. That is only one nature among many that need to be brought under HIS control and authority in my life.
I saw a bumper sticker on a car years ago that stated “I am a Christian still under construction.” All Christians are still under construction through the daily renewing of their minds by the HOLY SPIRIT. Refer back to Romans 12:2.

Let’s read Romans 8:1-9:

The Life-Giving Spirit
1 Therefore, no condemnation now exists for those in Christ Jesus,[1] Other mss add who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit 2 because the Spirit’s law of life in Christ Jesus has set you[2] Other mss read me free from the law of sin and of death. 3 What the law could not do since it was limited[3] Or weak by the flesh, God did. He condemned sin in the flesh by sending His own Son in flesh like ours under sin’s domain,[4] Lit in the likeness of sinful flesh and as a sin offering,[5] Lv 5:6–7,11; 14:31; Isaiah 53:10 4 in order that the law’s requirement would be accomplished in us who do not • walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. 5 For those whose lives are[6] Or those who are according to the flesh think about the things of the flesh, but those whose lives are[7] Or those who are according to the Spirit, about the things of the Spirit. 6 For the mind-set of the flesh is death, but the mind-set of the Spirit is life and peace. 7 For the mind-set of the flesh is hostile to God because it does not submit itself to God’s law, for it is unable to do so. 8 Those whose lives are[8] Or Those who are in the flesh are unable to please God. 9 You, however, are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, since[9] Or provided that the Spirit of God lives in you. But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him.

When believers try to live by the law, they are slaves to the law. That is why he or she must, in essence, die to self and be resurrected with CHRIST to be free from the law and the consequences of the law. The consequences of the law are sin and death and will enslave a person. The death and resurrection of CHRIST frees a believer from being a slave to the law to be free to serve GOD and do HIS will through forgiveness and grace. The believer then becomes a servant of the Master and not a servant of the law.

GOD placed all sin upon CHRIST. Paul tells us in 2 Corinthians 5:21:

21 For He (GOD) made Him (JESUS) who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

Righteousness means in right-standing. Those who believe in CHRIST are justified because CHRIST has made them righteous. Therefore a believer can approach GOD boldly and with confidence as HIS child.

Paul introduced the nature of the person without CHRIST contrasted with the person with CHRIST. It is all about the mind-set. A person either has CHRIST or he or she does not have CHRIST. CHRIST in us is what makes us a Christian and not the church we may attend.

JESUS said in John 5:24:

24 “I assure you: Anyone who hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment but has passed from death to life.
CHRIST through HIS death and resurrection has set all believers free from sin and spiritual death. In our last study, Paul emphasized that once he became aware of the law, that awareness almost killed him. He knew what he should do but he could not do it. However, once a person becomes a believer in CHRIST, CHRIST sets him or her free from the bondage of the law and he or she is now under grace.

This freedom was only accomplished because CHRIST came to earth as a human, lived as a human, was subject to all the temptations of a human and subject to death as a human. CHRIST lived and died as a sinless human, therefore, fulfilling all the requirements of the law and commandments of the law. This is GOD’S law and not man’s additions to the law. CHRIST lived fulfilling both the letter and spirit of the law.

When CHRIST died on the cross because HE had fulfilled the law and the power of the law died with HIM and was buried with HIM. As proof that CHRIST fulfilled the law and satisfied all the requirements of the law, GOD resurrected CHRIST from the dead as the first fruits of those who believe in HIM. When CHRIST died, in essence, every believer died with HIM and when HE was resurrected, in essence, every believer was resurrected with HIM. Since HIS death fulfilled the law, believers also died to the law and were resurrected to walk according to the Spirit. CHRIST fulfilling the law in HIS human body and dying physically paid the debt for sin. This made it possible for all believers to receive the Spirit of GOD in their hearts. This made it possible for GOD to indwell the human bodies of all believers. GOD’S Spirit unites with the human spirit to produce a born-again Spirit and allows the HOLY SPIRIT to indwell the believer. Therefore where ever a believer places his or her feet is Holy ground because the presence of GOD is in him or her. That is an awesome thought!
This equips every believer with the opportunity to live and walk as led by the Spirit. However, even though a believer is Spiritually equipped, he or she still lives in the body of flesh with the mind of the flesh. The flesh still wants to rule the body. After all, it has protected the body for all these years. It is natural. So an internal war breaks out.

Victory comes when believers realize that they have the power of the HOLY SPIRIT living within. Every believer received the HOLY SPIRIT the instant he or she asked CHRIST to come into his or her life and HE will never leave.

Paul made it clear to the Christians he was writing to in Rome that they had the mind-set of the Spirit because they had CHRIST.

Let’s read Romans 8:10-13:

10 Now if Christ is in you, the body is dead[10] Or the body will die because of sin, but the Spirit[11] Or spirit is life because of righteousness. 11 And if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead lives in you, then He who raised Christ from the dead will also bring your mortal bodies to life through[12] Other mss read because of His Spirit who lives in you.

The Holy Spirit’s Ministries
12 So then, brothers, we are not obligated to the flesh to live according to the flesh, 13 for if you live according to the flesh, you are going to die. But if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.

Paul is saying if you have CHRIST, you are living through the power of the Spirit because, in essence, your flesh body is dead. Since the flesh body is dead, a believer is dead to the dictates of the flesh. A believer’s existence depends solely upon GOD. If a believer continues to have the flesh mind-set he or she will live a defeated Christian life but if he or she lives according to the Spirit, he or she will have the mind-set of the Spirit and live the victorious Christian life.

My understanding is when a believer is completely yielded to the presence of GOD, through the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT and has a Spirit mind-set; he or she is as much in heaven as upon earth. It is no longer him or her but GOD being manifested to the world through him or her. Just as JESUS did when HE lived upon earth.

The only way this would be possible is to truly die to self.

Let’s read Romans 8:14-17:

14 All those led by God’s Spirit are God’s sons. 15 For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry out, “• Abba, Father!” 16 The Spirit Himself testifies together with our spirit that we are God’s children, 17 and if children, also heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ—seeing that[13] Or provided that we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him.

The HOLY SPIRIT confirms in the heart of every believer that he or she is a child of GOD. Notice that Paul refers to the HOLY SPIRIT as a person “Himself.” The HOLY SPIRIT is the person of GOD.

Paul tells all believers that they can approach GOD as FATHER because GOD has adopted them as HIS children. A believer has been adopted into the family of GOD the instant he or she accepts CHRIST as his or her SAVIOR or he or she has been born into GOD’S family though the miracle of rebirth. Either way believers are GOD’S children and have all the rights, privileges and promises of GOD. What a heritage! However just as believers inherit all the rights, etc. they also become the enemy of those who oppose GOD.

Let’s read Romans 8:18-30:

From Groans to Glory

18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is going to be revealed to us. 19 For the creation eagerly waits with anticipation for God’s sons to be revealed. 20 For the creation was subjected to futility—not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it—in the hope 21 that the creation itself will also be set free from the bondage of corruption into the glorious freedom of God’s children. 22 For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together with labor pains until now. 23 And not only that, but we ourselves who have the Spirit as the • firstfruits[14] Nm 15:17–21; 1 Co 16:15 —we also groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for adoption, the redemption of our bodies. 24 Now in this hope we were saved, yet hope that is seen is not hope, because who hopes for what he sees? 25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with patience. 26 In the same way the Spirit also joins to help in our weakness, because we do not know what to pray for as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us[15] Some mss omit for us with unspoken groanings. 27 And He who searches the hearts knows the Spirit’s mind-set, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. 28 We know that all things work together[16] Other mss read that God works together in all things for the good[17] The ultimate good of those who love God: those who are called according to His purpose. 29 For those He foreknew[18] From eternity God knew His people and entered into a personal relationship with them He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers. 30 And those He predestined, He also called; and those He called, He also justified; and those He justified, He also glorified.

Verse 19 has always intrigued me. Paul tells us that all creation anxiously waits for the fully redemption of GOD’S children because creation also suffered death and decay because of sin. I used to walk in the woods and speak out loud, when I thought no one was around, and tell all of nature that I was a believer and that CHRIST is coming soon to redeem it. I am sure if anyone was close around and could hear me, he or she concluded there was a nut wandering in the woods. But all of nature waits and longs for the moment it too will be redeemed from death and decay.

Just as nature eagerly awaits redemption believers also long for their bodies to be redeemed from death and decay. Our bodies will be redeemed at the second coming of CHRIST. This is when believers will receive their glorified bodies. Their glorified bodies will be just like CHRIST’S glorified body after HIS resurrection.

Paul told the Christians in Rome that the HOLY SPIRIT will aid believers when they pray. Often when believers pray they do not know exactly how to pray or what to ask for. We can ask the HOLY SPIRIT to pray for us. The HOLY SPIRIT knows the heart, mind, plan and purpose of GOD and will pray exactly according to HIS will.

Verse 28 tells us that GOD is in all things bringing about the best for HIS children. Christians make some big mistakes and are accountable for those mistakes and will have to suffer the consequences of their mistakes. When believers break the law, whether it is man’s law or GOD’S, there are consequences. GOD is at work to bring about the best outcome.

Verses 29 and 30 speak of believers being predestined by GOD to serve HIM.

Ephesians 1:4 tells us that even before GOD created the world, HE knew us.

Ephesians 1:4:

4 just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love,

GOD chose us before HE created the world. HE had a plan for each believer and has called each believer to carry out HIS plan. HE has equipped believers to accomplish HIS plan and purpose because HE has justified them and made them righteous.

We need to keep in mind that the foreknowledge of GOD does not override a person’s right to choose. Foreknowledge does allow GOD to know how a person will choose. Then GOD can orchestrate HIS plans and purpose accordingly. Think about it, you were no accident but are here for a purpose. Let the HOLY SPIRIT rule and guide your life to GOD’S glory.

All Christians Struggle with Sin - Romans 7:9-25 - October 19, 2008

Sunday School Lesson – All Christians Struggle with Sin – October 19, 2008

This is lesson three (3) in our series of Bible study entitled “This I Believe.”

Our scripture is Romans 7:9-25.

The title of our study says it all. All believers struggle with sin. In Chapter 7 the Apostle Paul shared his struggle between his carnal or flesh nature and his born-again Spirit. When believers are not aware that they are falling short of GOD’S requirements for them, there is little or no struggle. However, once a believer senses something is missing in his or her relationship with CHRIST, he or she begins to search. The HOLY SPIRIT will reveal areas that need to be addressed to build a more intimate relationship with CHRIST. These areas are often barriers or natures emanating from our carnal or flesh nature. Once these areas are revealed, the believer must decide if and how he or she will deal with them. Most often believers try to deal with them in their own strength and when they do, the more they realize how difficult it is. They become frustrated when they fail, which is good. When they realize their efforts are fruitless, it forces them to turn to CHRIST and ask HIM to give them the strength. That is exactly what GOD wants HIS children to do. HE wants them to see and understand that HE is their strength. HE wants them to yield the control of their lives to HIM and trust HIM to guide their lives. It is a daily, never-ending battle between the flesh and the born-again Spirit. The closer believers walk with GOD, the more Satan tries to trip them up and the more they are aware of how far they miss perfection.

I think all believers can relate to Chapter 7 and can have a sense of helplessness or frustration. That is where Romans chapter 8 comes to their rescue. When you study this lesson, you need to stay tuned and read next Sunday’s lesson which is Romans Chapter 8.

To me Chapter 7 is stage one (1) in the sanctification process. Believers are often unaware of their notions, natures and strongholds that are barriers to GOD, through the HOLY SPIRIT, being the LORD of our lives. Once we go through the process of Chapter 7 and see that GOD is our strength, we are keenly aware of our frailties. In 2 Corinthians 10:3-6 the Apostle Paul shares what it is like to walk in the power of GOD, yet in the flesh.

2 Corinthians 10:3-6:

3 For although we are walking in the flesh, we do not wage war in a fleshly way,[2] Lit war according to flesh 4 since the weapons of our warfare are not fleshly, but are powerful through God for the demolition of strongholds. We demolish arguments 5 and every high-minded thing that is raised up against the knowledge of God, taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ. 6 And we are ready to punish any disobedience, once your obedience is complete.

This scripture highlights our dependence upon the power of GOD to defeat the desires of our flesh and by that power, through sanctification, believers are made complete. Many of us have strongholds in our lives that are extremely difficult natures to bring under the authority of GOD. GOD’S power is necessary for believers to demolish strongholds.

Let’s read Romans 7:1-8 as background to lead us into Paul’s discussion of the role of the law. Paul is speaking of the law given to Moses by GOD.

Verses 1-8 are an illustration from marriage to show the role of the law and what is required to be freed from the dictates and burden of the law. A clue is that dying to self frees a believer to walk in the newness of his or her life in CHRIST and experience the gift of grace.

1 Since I am speaking to those who understand law, brothers, are you unaware that the law has authority over someone as long as he lives? 2 For example, a married woman is legally bound to her husband while he lives. But if her husband dies, she is released from the law regarding the husband. 3 So then, if she gives herself to another man while her husband is living, she will be called an adulteress. But if her husband dies, she is free from that law. Then, if she gives herself to another man, she is not an adulteress. 4 Therefore, my brothers, you also were put to death in relation to the law through the [crucified]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. body of the • Messiah, so that you may belong to another—to Him who was raised from the dead—that we may bear fruit for God. 5 For when we were in the flesh,[1] in the flesh = a person’s life before accepting Christ the sinful passions operated through the law in every part of us[2] Lit of our members and bore fruit for death. 6 But now we have been released from the law, since we have died to what held us, so that we may serve in the new way[3] Lit in newness of the Spirit and not in the old letter of the law.

Sin’s Use of the Law

7 What should we say then? Is the law sin? Absolutely not! On the contrary, I would not have known sin if it were not for the law. For example, I would not have known what it is to covet if the law had not said, Do not covet.[4] Ex 20:17 8 And sin, seizing an opportunity through the commandment, produced in me coveting of every kind. For apart from the law sin is dead.

The Apostle Paul is laying the ground work to describe the importance of dying to self. We know from this scripture Paul used the sin of coveting to make his point and he refers back to this sin in the scripture we are studying.

Let’s read Romans 7:9-11:

9 Once I was alive apart from the law, but when the commandment came, sin sprang to life 10 and I died. The commandment that was meant for life resulted in death for me. 11 For sin, seizing an opportunity through the commandment, deceived me, and through it killed me.

Paul has been building on a foundation of Christian fundamentals in his letter to the Christians in Rome:
- All people have sinned.
- Salvation is based upon grace through faith.
- CHRIST’S shed blood paid the sin debt and broke the barrier of sin, which opened the way to GOD through CHRIST.
- CHRIST’S shed blood justifies or cleanses all believers of all sin – past, present and future.
- Every believer has been made righteous through the shed blood of CHRIST and is free to approach GOD as-if-he-or-she-had-never-sinned.
- GOD knows believers will have their ups and downs as they journey with HIM on a daily basis. Grace allows believers to live each day with complete confidence and assurance while they are still in their bodies of flesh and going through the process of sanctification or dying to self or the flesh.
- Sanctification is the process of being freed from the slavery of sin and death but in that process the law shows believers how sinful they really are and need to totally rely upon CHRIST.

Paul said at one time in his life he was ignorant of the certain laws or commandments. We know from the previous verses that he is referring to the commandment of coveting. He was saying as long as he was not aware of the commandment, he was a happy sinner. However, once it was revealed to him that “coveting” was a sin, then he became keenly aware of how much he coveted. This knowledge or awareness, in essence, nearly killed him.

Let’s read Romans 7:12-13:

12 So then, the law is holy, and the commandment is holy and just and good.

The Problem of Sin in Us

13 Therefore, did what is good cause my death?[5] Lit good become death to me? Absolutely not! On the contrary, sin, in order to be recognized as sin, was producing death in me through what is good, so that through the commandment sin might become sinful beyond measure.

Once the sin of coveting was revealed to him, through the law, it made him aware of the sin but it did not make the law sin. Paul said since the law revealed his sin, the law is holy, just and good.

Since the law made him aware of his sin, did the law cause his death so-to-speak? NO! It was a good thing because it made him keenly aware of this sin and it was something that he had to deal with and bring under the control and authority of GOD.

Once Paul was aware of the sin, every time he coveted, it was like a bright neon sign flashing in his eyes. This was good because Paul’s desire was to serve HIS LORD and SAVIOR and it made him aware of how often he coveted.

The law is good to make believers aware of sin and how often they miss the mark. JESUS put an even finer point on obeying the law. JESUS said a person had to obey the spirit of the law. This means that GOD looks upon the heart and if a person breaks the law in his or her mind, he or she is guilty of breaking the law.

This can give a believer a feeling of helplessness. But keep reading because there is a solution to this problem.

Paul continued with a discussion I believe all mature Christians have. The closer believers try to follow CHRIST and desire to be all CHRIST wants them to be, the more they realize how far short they fall. This is very frustrating but it is a critical component of the sanctification process. It is the realization of the limitation we have in our own efforts to serve HIM.

Let’s read Romans 7:14-25:

14 For we know that the law is spiritual; but I am made out of flesh,[6] Other mss read I am carnal sold into sin’s power. 15 For I do not understand what I am doing, because I do not practice what I want to do, but I do what I hate. 16 And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree with the law that it is good. 17 So now I am no longer the one doing it, but it is sin living in me. 18 For I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my flesh. For the desire to do what is good is with me, but there is no ability to do it. 19 For I do not do the good that I want to do, but I practice the evil that I do not want to do. 20 Now if I do what I do not want, I am no longer the one doing it, but it is the sin that lives in me. 21 So I discover this principle:[7] Or law when I want to do good, evil is with me. 22 For in my inner self[8] Lit inner man I joyfully agree with God’s law. 23 But I see a different law in the parts of my body,[9] Lit my members waging war against the law of my mind and taking me prisoner to the law of sin in the parts of my body.[10] Lit my members 24 What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? 25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord![11] Or Thanks be to God—(it is done) through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, with my mind I myself am a slave to the law of God, but with my flesh, to the law of sin.

Paul used the word “flesh.” We as humans like to blame something or someone for our problems. The devil made me do it. The law is spiritual and the flesh is flesh. The flesh is our earth suit that gets us around earth. The flesh is amoral, however, the mind is the battle ground. The sensations and pleasures the body enjoys appeals to our minds. In the mind we decide whether or not we will follow the desires of the flesh or the Spirit. Believers have a choice to allow the mind of the flesh to rule and seek the pleasures of the flesh or allow the Spirit to rule through the renewing of the mind. This is a major step in the process of sanctification. GOD never removes our freedom to choose.

Paul allows us to see the battle that went on in his mind. Most often we, who call ourselves spiritual people, do not want others to know that we struggle with sin. But I can tell you I do and every believer does. In fact the closer you get to CHRIST and serve him, the greater the battle.

One may ask, “Where is this victorious Christian life?” Paul tells us, it is CHRIST indwelling us through the HOLY SPIRIT. It is when we die to self. But self does not want to die. Of course, we have to function in the physical world.

Believers must be keenly aware of the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT. When a believer allows the Spirit to rule, there is power but when the mind of the flesh rules, there is turmoil.

Paul stated that the law highlighted sin in his life, which was good. Because it showed him how much he sinned. He was helpless to control all this sin in his life. This dilemma forced him to look for a solution and he found it in the power of the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT. Life is a struggle but this struggle can be overcome through the renewing of your mind by the HOLY SPIRIT. The HOLY SPIRIT gives believers the power and assurance of victory but it requires believers to make a decision. Who controls their lives, the flesh mind or the Spirit? CHRIST said we have to take up our cross daily and follow HIM. Our decision to allow HIM to lead and guide us is a daily choice.

This is the process of dying to the flesh nature and allowing the Spirit nature to rule. It is a daily struggle but through the power of the HOLY SPIRIT the struggle is put into perspective. It is no longer us but CHRIST in us that gives us victory.

When a believer tries to live by the law, they are a slave to the law. That is why he or she must, in essence, die to self and be resurrected with CHRIST to be free from the law and be free to serve GOD and do HIS will. The believer then becomes a servant of the Master and not the law.

Our next study is on the HOLY SPIRIT.

God Loves Sinners - Romans 5:1-19 - October 12, 2008

Sunday School Lesson – God Loves Sinners – October 12, 2008

This is lesson two (2) in our series entitled “This I Believe.”

Our scripture is Romans 5:6-19.

Often we, as Christians, overlook the fact that GOD loves sinners but HE hates their sin. Those of us who are parents know the love we have for our children. If they should become addicted to drugs, gambling, alcohol, pornography or anything that is not good for them, we still love them but dislike or hate the thing that controls them.

GOD is no different. HE loves every human who ever has been or will ever be. HIS desire is for every human to escape the bondage of sin and eternal death by accepting HIS SON JESUS as his or her SAVIOR. In his letter to the Christians in Rome, the Apostle Paul spells out the fundamentals of the gospel. Rome was such a mixing pot of religious practices and pagan worship that Paul wanted those he would visit to understand his perspective of the Christian faith. This letter would give those he planned to visit time to read his letter, digest it and be prepared to ask questions or seek clarification. The Christians in Rome and those to whom they would be presenting the gospel would likely be people who have debated the issue of religion. It was important that the Christians in Rome all be in one accord with the fundamentals of the gospel. Since the Christians in Rome trace back to Pentecost, they should be mature in CHRIST. So Paul gives them the meat of Christian fundamentals.

Although our scripture begins with verse 6, let’s begin with:

Romans 5:1-5:

Faith Triumphs

1 Therefore, since we have been declared righteous by faith, we have peace[1] Other mss read faith, let us have peace, which can also be translated faith, let us grasp the fact that we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Also through Him, we have obtained access by faith[2] Other mss omit by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only that, but we also rejoice in our afflictions, because we know that affliction produces endurance, 4 endurance produces proven character, and proven character produces hope. 5 This hope does not disappoint, because God’s love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

Verse 1 begins with the word “therefore” which refers back to Chapter 4 where Paul wrote about faith. Faith is what makes a person righteous. GOD accrued Abraham’s faith to him as righteousness. It is not keeping the law that makes one righteous because Abraham lived before GOD gave the law to Moses.

Death came into the world because of Adam’s sin and death is conquered and defeated by CHRIST giving HIS sinless life to redeem mankind from its grip. CHRIST did what no human could do for themselves. GOD’S love for mankind was HIS motive. The sacrifice CHRIST made by dying on the cross went far beyond just satisfying the original sin debt. CHRIST’S death covers the past, present and future sins of a believer. This all encompassing coverage of sins is achieved because of GOD’S gift of grace to all believers. GOD’S gifts to all believers are:
- Eternal life through the miracle of rebirth.
- The gift of righteousness through the death of CHRIST.
- CHRIST’S shed blood cleanses all believers of all their sins so they can approach GOD directly. They can approach GOD as if they have never sinned.
- The gift of grace. Grace is unmerited favor that GOD gives to all believers. Grace is something that is impossible to earn. It is a gift from GOD.

When sinners accept and acknowledge what CHRIST has done for them upon the cross, all of these gifts are theirs. WOW!!!

Paul made it clear that even though believers have these gifts there will be difficult times. Believers are to look upon these difficult times as opportunities for growth and development in their faith. GOD has given to all believers the HOLY SPIRIT, WHO will be their teacher, guide, assurance and strength all the time and especially during difficult times.

As I write this many of us have likely been impacted by the financial crisis in our nation and the world. We as Christians need wisdom and guidance from the LORD during such times. Many of us likely have a feeling of helplessness. This leads us into verse 6.

Let’s read Romans 5:6-11:

Those Declared Righteous Are Reconciled

6 For while we were still helpless, at the appointed moment, Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For rarely will someone die for a just person—though for a good person perhaps someone might even dare to die. 8 But God proves His own love for us in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us! 9 Much more then, since we have now been declared righteous by His blood, we will be saved through Him from wrath. 10 For if, while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, [then how]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. much more, having been reconciled, will we be saved by His life! 11 And not only that, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.

Paul used the word “helpless” to define the spiritual situation of all humans. Every human is helpless to work out his or her salvation. GOD’S standard is perfection for a person to enter HIS heaven. Every human is born with the original sin debt hanging over his or her head because of Adam. We say that is not fair, but, for us to live as a human, we had to be born of the flesh. Most of us or likely all of us like the fact that we were born and can enjoy life. However, because of this life in the flesh we inherited certain things. We inherited our physical characteristics, our health, our mental attributes, our personality, aging, physical death and the list goes on. But we also inherited the sin of Adam, which, in addition to physical death, was also spiritual death or separation from GOD. GOD hates sin but loves the sinner and HIS desire is for every human to be saved. That is why HE allowed JESUS to come to earth and give HIS life for all who will become believers.

Now let me step aside for a moment because some reading this may raise the question about a child dying before he or she made a decision to ask CHRIST into his or her life. There may be a mentally challenged person who one may think did not make a profession of faith before he or she died. There is the unborn child or fetus that has died. I believe that GOD receives these souls into HIS arms the instant they die. I believe there is an “accountable age” which is not a numerical age, but a moment of understanding when a person realizes his or her separation from GOD. Keep in mind that GOD works in the most secret place in a person’s life. It is GOD that brings a person to a point of this understanding. At that moment every person has to make a choice to accept or reject CHRIST as his or her SAVIOR. It is GOD’S desire that no human perish, no not one. This is what I believe, but, just because I believe it, does not make it accurate. There are some scriptures that have led me to this conclusion. But pray and ask GOD to either confirm it or reject it in your heart.

I quickly add, if you read this and think you will take your chances on whether or not you are accountable. DO NOT PUT OFF WHAT YOU KNOW YOU NEED TO DO - NOW!!! Ask CHRIST to forgive you of your sins and for HIM to come into your heart.

Paul continued to lay the foundation of the gospel. When humans were helpless to save themselves, GOD willingly allowed HIS ONLY SON to come to earth to live as a human, to be tempted in all ways like humans and to die to pay, in full, the sin debt incurred by Adam. In order for CHRIST to satisfy the original sin debt, HE had to be sinless. As proof that CHRIST was sinless, GOD resurrected HIM from the dead to receive HIS glorified body. Mission accomplished! The FATHER was pleased with HIS SON and JESUS heard those wonderful words, “Well done good and faithful servant. Come and sit at MY right hand.” As a result of CHRIST’S obedience, GOD placed all things under HIS control and authority.

When GOD gave Moses the law, it gave mankind the standard GOD expected of them. With the law, mankind had a measure of how much they miss the requirements of GOD’S expectations. JESUS put an even finer point on how much we miss the mark when HE included what a person thinks in his or her heart to also be accountable. JESUS said a person must also keep the spirit of the law. When sin or missing the mark includes what we think, it gives us a sense of helplessness. That is exactly where CHRIST wanted every person to be because he or she should ask “What is the solution?” No person can measure up to GOD’S requirements. Exactly!!! That is why CHRIST had to die in his or her place. No human is pure enough to satisfy GOD’S requirements but CHRIST does. When people accept what CHRIST did for them, they are forgiven, cleansed and put in right standing with GOD. GOD gives every believer the HOLY SPIRIT to indwell him or her as confirmation of his or her rebirth in the spirit.

When humans were ignorant of their fallen state, GOD, in HIS love for us, allowed CHRIST to die for all who would believe in HIM. CHRIST was willing to give HIS life for those who would accept HIM as their SAVIOR.

A person needs to realize that if he or she is the only person in all eternity to ever accept CHRIST as his or her SAVIOR, CHRIST would have died just for him or her. That is as personal as you can get. HE loves you that much. If you have not accepted CHRIST as your SAVIOR, please do not reject HIM because HE died just for you.

The shed blood of CHRIST saves a believer. This is ground zero. Then because a believer has been justified and made righteous through the shed blood of CHRIST, he or she can build an intimate, loving relationship with GOD our FATHER. As believers really get to know HIM, they are more likely to obediently serve HIM. Believers always have a choice. When they serve HIM as HE directs they will grow and mature spiritually. Believers will go from one degree of glory to another because of the relationship.

Let’s read Romans 5:12-14:

Death through Adam and Life through Christ

12 Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, in this way death spread to all men, because all sinned.[3] Or have sinned 13 In fact, sin was in the world before the law, but sin is not charged to one’s account when there is no law. 14 Nevertheless, death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those who did not sin in the likeness of Adam’s transgression. He is a prototype of the Coming One.

Paul is comparing Adam and CHRIST. GOD intended for Adam to be like CHRIST. Adam was a prototype of JESUS. GOD allowed Adam and CHRIST to choose. Both had a free will. GOD did not make either of them robots. Each was tempted and each had the freedom to choose to obey GOD or the dictates of the flesh. CHRIST chose to obey GOD and remain sinless but Adam was disobedient, yielded to the flesh and sinned.

GOD intended for Adam and his offspring to have the opportunity to live forever. But to do so required the right choice. GOD placed the Tree of Life in the garden and Adam and Eve were free to eat from the Tree of Life. If they had eaten from the Tree of Life, they and their offspring would have eternal life. When Adam sinned, death came into the world and all humans inherited physical and spiritual death. However, GOD had a redemption plan from the beginning. GOD’S foreknowledge allowed HIM to know the outcome. But foreknowledge does not dictate choice.

CHRIST was willing to leave heaven and come to earth to give HIS life to redeem mankind from spiritual death and to give the gift of eternal life to all who believed in HIM. GOD demands perfection and the sacrifice to redeem mankind had to be the perfect sacrifice. CHRIST is the only acceptable perfect sacrifice. That is why CHRIST is the only way to the FATHER. CHRIST justifies all who believe in HIM, through HIS shed blood.

Since, as believers, we are redeemed through CHRIST and born-again in our spirit, each person must come to GOD as an individual. Being the offspring of Christian parents does not make us born-again Christians.

Paul mentions the period of time between Adam and Moses when there was no law. During this period of no law, humans still died. It is interesting that in 1 Peter 3:18-22:

18 For Christ also suffered for sins once for all,[23] Other mss read died for sins on our behalf; other mss read died for our sins; other mss read died for sins on your behalf [24] Rm 6:10; Heb 9:28; 10:10; 1 Pt 2:21; 4:1 the righteous[25] Isaiah 53:11 for the unrighteous,[26] Or the Righteous One in the place of the unrighteous many that He might bring you[27] Other mss read us to God,[28] Eph 2:18 after being put to death in the fleshly realm[29] Or in the flesh but made alive in the spiritual realm.[30] Or in the spirit, or in the Spirit 19 In that state[31] Or In whom, or At that time, or In which He also went and made a proclamation to the spirits in prison[32] The spirits in prison are most likely fallen supernatural beings or angels; see 2 Pt 2:4; Jd 6. 20 who in the past were disobedient, when God patiently waited in the days of Noah[33] Gn 6:1–8:22 while an ark was being prepared; in it, a few—that is, eight people[34] Lit souls —were saved through water. 21 Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the pledge[35] Or the appeal of a good conscience[36] Heb 10:22 toward God) through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. 22 Now that He has gone into heaven, He is at God’s right hand, with angels, authorities, and powers subjected to Him.[37] Eph 1:20–22

When JESUS died on the cross, while HE was in the Spirit, HE went to speak to those who had lived and died during the period between Adam and Moses. The spirits of these people apparently were being held in a special place until JESUS came to redeem the world of sin. It seems that JESUS preached or presented the gospel to them and they had an opportunity to choose.

The scripture in First Peter leads some to believe that all a person has to do to be saved is to be baptized. Baptism occurs after salvation as an outward expression of a believer’s inward change. A believer in essence has been buried with CHRIST and raised to walk in newness of life. A believer is dying to self and is being resurrected to be guided by CHRIST through the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT.

In the absence of the law there is nothing to give us a reference as to how far we have missed the requirements of the law. However people are still accountable to GOD.

Let’s read Romans 2:12-16:

12 All those who sinned without the law will also perish without the law, and all those who sinned under the law will be judged by the law. 13 For the hearers of the law are not righteous before God, but the doers of the law will be declared righteous.[5] Or will be justified or acquitted 14 So, when Gentiles, who do not have the law, instinctively do what the law demands, they are a law to themselves even though they do not have the law. 15 They show that the work of the law[6] The code of conduct required by the law is written on their hearts. Their consciences testify in support of this, and their competing thoughts either accuse or excuse them[7] Internal debate, either in a person or among the pagan moralists 16 on the day when God judges what people have kept secret, according to my gospel through Christ Jesus.[8] Ac 17:31

Paul tells us even when there is no written law, GOD writes the law within every human’s heart and each person will be judged according to the light they have received and how he or she responded to that light.

One may say, “That sounds good.” Let me quickly point out the word “judged.” Do you want to be judged? Or do you want a sure thing? At the instant you receive CHRIST you will pass from death to life and will not be judged. JESUS says this in John 5:24:

24 “I assure you: Anyone who hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment but has passed from death to life.

I like a sure thing. I choose CHRIST now. What about you?

GOD promised the coming of the Messiah through various prophets and prophecies in the Old Testament scriptures. Those who lived during the period of the law were looking forward to the salvation of the cross and their full redemption through the Messiah. Where as we look backwards to that event. All sin was resolved and the path to GOD was made available to all who believe and accept CHRIST at the cross.

Let’s read Romans 5:15-19:

15 But the gift is not like the trespass. For if by the one man’s trespass the many died, how much more have the grace of God and the gift overflowed to the many by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ. 16 And the gift is not like the one man’s sin, because from one sin came the judgment, resulting in condemnation, but from many trespasses came the gift, resulting in justification.[4] Or acquittal 17 Since by the one man’s trespass, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive the overflow of grace and the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ. 18 So then, as through one trespass there is condemnation for everyone, so also through one righteous act there is life-giving justification[5] Lit is justification of life for everyone. 19 For just as through one man’s disobedience the many were made sinners, so also through the one man’s obedience the many will be made righteous.

Adam’s sin was disobedience. We may not sin in the exact same way but all humans sin. When Adam sinned, death came to the human race.

We need to pay attention to the fact that once GOD pronounces a judgment, it stands until it is changed according to the terms HE specifies. In the case of Adam’s sin, GOD pronounced the death sentence upon Adam and all of mankind because we are his offspring. Therefore for the judgment or sentence of death, both physical and spiritual, to be satisfied, GOD required that a perfect, sinless life be given in exchange for the disobedient, sinful life. What GOD required, GOD also provided – HIS ONLY SON JESUS. But CHRIST had to come to earth as a human, live as a human, be tempted as a human, have freedom of choice, remain sinless and give HIS life by shedding HIS blood to redeem mankind from the penalty of sin and death. As proof that HE accomplished HIS mission, GOD raised HIM from the dead and HE received HIS glorified eternal body the moment HE was resurrected. All believers will receive their glorified body at HIS second coming.

When CHRIST died for the sins of mankind, HIS death far exceeded just paying the original sin debt by also giving grace to believers. Grace covers the past, present and future sins of all believers. HIS grace allows believers to not only be forgiven but to be cleansed and justified. Believers come before GOD as pure and righteous, as if they had never sinned. WOW!!! Think about that! No matter how bad people have been or what they have done, by accepting CHRIST they are made clean, just as if they had never sinned. Believers are made righteous through the shed blood of CHRIST.

2 Corinthians 5:21:

21 He made the One (JESUS) who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

What a heritage Christians have in CHRIST. Keep in mind that GOD loves sinners but hates sin. Often it is hard for us to separate the sin from the sinner. We are all sinners saved by grace. Just as we have been given grace, we also need to extend grace to others as the HOLY SPIRIT leads.

Everyone is Lost in Sin - Romans 1:18-25, 28-32; 3:9-10 - Ocotber 5, 2008

Sunday School Lesson – Everyone is Lost in Sin – October 5, 2008

This begins a new series of study entitled “This I Believe.”

Our scripture is Romans 1:18-25, 28-32; 3:9-10.

All of our scripture for the next two (2) months will be in the Book of Romans.

The Book of Romans is an exciting book to study. The Apostle Paul wrote Romans about 57 A.D. Paul had not visited Rome and he wanted to prepare them for his visit by giving them an overview of his understanding of the gospel. The church in Rome is believed to have been started by Jews who had received CHRIST at Pentecost when CHRIST sent the HOLY SPIRIT to indwell each believer. The church in Rome grew and its majority membership were Jews but also contained a high number of Gentiles.

Many Christians use scripture found in Romans to tell others how to receive CHRIST. These scriptures are referred to as Roman road to salvation:

Romans 3:23 – Everyone has sinned.

Romans 6:23 – The penalty for our sin is death.

Romans 5:8 – JESUS CHRIST died for sin.

Romans 10:8-10 – To be forgiven for our sin, we must believe that JESUS died for our sin, was resurrected from the dead and confess JESUS as LORD. Salvation comes through JESUS CHRIST.

This is a good guide to use but keep in mind that salvation depends on the heart and not saying the right words. I heard of a person simply saying, “LORD I give up” and CHRIST came into his life immediately and in a powerful way. GOD knew exactly what he meant. GOD understands our heart. If a person is sincere and desires forgiveness for his or her sin and to have a relationship with CHRIST, HE knows what is in his or her heart. Some people know when CHRIST enters their lives but for some it may be a gradual awareness of HIS presence in their lives. The key is for your spirit to bear witness of the presence of the HOLY SPIRIT in your life.

Romans 8:16:

16 The Spirit Himself testifies together with our spirit that we are God’s children,

We need to keep in mind that Rome was a multi-cultural society and was a haven for all sorts of gods. Paul wanted to make it clear that every person needed salvation. Jews were religious people but every Jew needs to be saved from the consequences of sin, which is death and eternal separation from GOD.

Salvation is justification or being made clean before GOD. We often use the word justification to help us understand the cleansing nature that CHRIST’S shed blood has for sinners – just-as-if-I-never-sinned. Once a person has asked CHRIST to forgive him or her of his or her sin, then living each day in the light of his or her salvation is called sanctification. Sanctification is to be set aside to serve GOD or to be made saint like. As we journey with our LORD upon earth and obediently serve HIM, believers will be glorified when we complete our journey upon earth. In last week’s lesson, we heard the master tell his faithful servants, “Well done” because you invested what I entrusted to you wisely. GOD wants every believer to invest wisely what has been entrusted to us and that is CHRIST in us the hope of glory.

Paul states in Chapter One his eagerness to preach the gospel to any person – Jew, Gentile, Greek, non-Greek, wise, unwise, to anyone. Paul is eager to tell the good news to any human who will listen. Since Paul was a Jew, he likely wanted to make it clear that the gospel was for all people. In verse 17, Paul made it clear that GOD declares a believer righteous because of faith and faith alone. Since he was a Jew, he likely wanted to make it clear that a new convert did not first have to go through some of the Jewish rituals, such as circumcision, before becoming a Christian. Salvation depends upon a person taking a step of faith. The step of faith then produces righteousness.

Romans 1:16-17:

The Righteous Will Live by Faith
16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel,[11] Other mss add of Christ because it is God’s power for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, and also to the Greek. 17 For in it God’s righteousness is revealed from faith to faith,[12] Or revealed out of faith into faith just as it is written: The righteous will live by faith.[13] Or The one who is righteous by faith will live [14] Hab 2:4

Then he goes into verse 18 where this lesson begins.

Let’s read Romans 1:18-20:

18 For God’s wrath is revealed from heaven against all godlessness and unrighteousness of people who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth, 19 since what can be known[15] Or what is known about God is evident among them, because God has shown it to them. 20 From the creation of the world His invisible attributes, that is, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what He has made. As a result, people[16] Lit they are without excuse.

Why does GOD become so angry with godless and unrighteous people? It is because GOD has surrounded every human with evidence of Himself, HIS power and nature. GOD is truth and HIS desire is that all humans will seek HIM to get to really know HIM. Godlessness and unrighteousness blocks their ability to see and comprehend it. However, every human is without excuse because GOD has manifested HIS eternal power and divine nature in everything HE has made. This includes the universe, earth and everything upon earth. All any human has to do is look around them and stand in awe of GOD the Creator of humans, all life and everything they can see. It is hard for anyone to escape this fact, unless he or she has allowed their flesh minds to make up a fantasy.

I went through a period when I thought there was no GOD. It stemmed from an instance that I got very upset with GOD. HE let me run with that idea for awhile. Then I began to notice things around me. This was early in our married life and we had two (2) children. The LORD brought to my mind the human body, how wonderfully made was our children and the miracle of a baby being formed in the mother’s womb – breathing embryonic fluid one minute and air the next. How wonderfully made was the human body.

I thought about sight. How we can see colors and focus our eyes without having to turn a knob to look at something up close or at a distance. [Keep in mind this was when I was young. Now I need glasses.] I thought about our nerves. How I would know if someone touched me on any area of my body. I thought about the universe, the earth, the seasons, the sunrise, the sunset, the variety of trees, plants, animals and the order of all things, including the universe. To think that such complexity came into existence by random probability did not make sense. This all lead me to accepting that GOD does exist.

As time passed and I continued to search and seek, the role of CHRIST became clearer. Now mind you, I was active in church while all of this was going on in my mind. I was searching and seeking. I was in my thirties before it all came together for me. I had to stop trying to figure it out intellectually and take another step of faith. I tried to live the Christian life in my own strength but it was impossible. I could not do it. I became frustrated and one day, while driving to work, I asked the LORD to take my life just as it was and to give me the strength to live the Christian life. In a nanosecond HE did.

From that instant, I have known that I was GOD’S child and had the assurance of my salvation in my heart. There have been many ups and downs since then but one thing is for sure, I know GOD is my FATHER because of what CHRIST did for me upon the cross. The proof that what HE did is true is HIS resurrection and the confirmation of the HOLY SPIRIT. I have not always pleased the LORD during these many years but HE has never abandoned me. HE went though some very difficult times with me and so did a very loving wife for whom I am very blessed and grateful.

Let’s read Romans 1:21-25:

21 For though they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God or show gratitude. Instead, their thinking became nonsense, and their senseless minds[17] Lit hearts were darkened. 22 Claiming to be wise, they became fools 23 and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man, birds, four-footed animals, and reptiles.[18] Ps 106:20; Jr 2:11 24 Therefore God delivered them over in the cravings of their hearts to sexual impurity, so that their bodies were degraded among themselves. 25 They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served something created instead of the Creator, who is blessed forever. • Amen.

The human mind is very creative. When we watch the variety of television shows, movies and read fiction books we can see what the human mind can create. It spans from macabre to heartwarming; but all fiction and fantasy. Humans recognize that GOD exists but they fail to honor HIM. They know of HIM but not in the way believers know HIM. To know about GOD is far different than knowing HIM. To really know HIM requires a step of faith.

Humans like to think they have it all figured out and dream up their own concept about life. They come up with their own notions about where to place their faith. As they ponder these fantasies, it gives way to believing in the fantasy rather than truth. This makes GOD very angry because HE is truth and HIS desire is for every human to see truth and not fantasy or perceived truth.

I know of a person who was going to a non-Christian councilor. The councilor told them to pick something to believe in. So this person chose the moon. GOD says go beyond the moon, the stars and the universe. Consider WHO created them. Seek a relationship with GOD not some finite object. But humans focus on what they can see and fantasize about and even make objects to represent these things. GOD tells us not to make any image of HIM.

Let’s read Romans 1:28-32:

28 And because they did not think it worthwhile to have God in their knowledge, God delivered them over to a worthless mind to do what is morally wrong. 29 They are filled with all unrighteousness,[23] Other mss add sexual immorality evil, greed, and wickedness. They are full of envy, murder, disputes, deceit, and malice. They are gossips, 30 slanderers, God-haters, arrogant, proud, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents, 31 undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving,[24] Other mss add unforgiving and unmerciful. 32 Although they know full well God’s just sentence—that those who practice such things deserve to die[25] Lit things are worthy of death —they not only do them, but even applaud[26] Lit even take pleasure in others who practice them.

Because the attitude of the godless and unrighteous people is not to acknowledge GOD, HE cannot and will not force them to change their minds. It is not that GOD abandons them but the fact that they have abandoned GOD. GOD always allows a person to choose. HE never forces a person to accept HIM but HE makes every effort to reveal Himself to everyone. The choice is always ours to make.

My prayer is that you have made this choice and have chosen to accept CHRIST as your SAVIOR. If not do it now.

When a person abandons GOD there is a natural degeneration. Paul lists a few of these attributes in verse 29-32. These people know that they are being rebellious and that they run the risk of punishment. The sad thing is that they encourage others to follow their practice. Birds of a feather flock together.

I have heard of couples that liked to party and one becomes a Christian and stops partying. It often leads to problems because those who want to party want someone to party with them. When a person becomes a believer old things go away and his or her new life in CHRIST takes over.

Let’s read Romans 3:9-10:

9 What then? Are we any better?[5] Are we Jews any better than the Gentiles? Not at all! For we have previously charged that both Jews and Gentiles[6] Lit Greeks are all under sin,[7] Under sin’s power or dominion 10 as it is written:[8] Paul constructs this charge from a chain of OT quotations, mainly from the Psalms. There is no one righteous, not even one;

Paul has painted a graphic picture of the depravity of human nature. Then he brings his remarks home to those who might have thought they were above this sinful nature with two (2) questions – What then? Are we (Jews or Christians) any better?
Paul answers his own questions with a resounding, “Not at all!” Just because you are a religious person does not exempt you from being a sinner. Everyone must recognize and acknowledge that they are sinners – saved by grace. None are righteous, no, not even one.

It is easy for those of us who have been Christians for a long time to become self- righteous. Again, it comes back to the fantasies that the human mind dreams up. We can begin to look down on others who are not as spiritual as we think we are. Can we effectively minister to others if we think more highly of ourselves than we should? This has nothing to do with self esteem. Self esteem is very important but arrogance is a problem.

We are sinners saved by grace. We have been rescued from the jaws of sin and death to walk with our SAVIOR and LORD JESUS.

Christian’s sin and when we do 1 John 1:9-10 tells us:

9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say, “We have not sinned,” we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us.