We are a forgetful people in a land of distractions. Our minds are easily captivated by trivial and temporary inducements. New things quickly become old. In our mind’s eye even glory tends to fade and warnings tend to wane. It is no wonder that we who are invisibly united to Christ and visibly in and not of this world live in constant need of renewal. And what is true for the Christian is true for the church. This is a series that seeks to renew the mind of the church. Not so much by reviewing what she is called to do as much as what she is called. As with the Christian so with church, her God-given identity defines her. We who are the church are a people for God and none other.
Before we return to the book of Romans, we will be looking at the what scripture says about the Church, in its nature, how she expresses herself in song, and how the church cares and equips for its members.
The messages from this series can be found here:
Manny Pereira - January 7, 2024
God's Sovereignty Justified - Part 1
If God is sovereign then how can man be responsible? This constitutes the core objection of the passage and is primarily about the eternal salvation of sinners. While the question is thoroughly expected, the answer given is not. Rather than entertain objectors with philosophical musings, Paul answers the question by masterfully focusing all attention on the nature and character of God. In Romans nine, Israel’s rejection of Christ has launched Paul into a series of rejoinders that revel in the glory of God and marvel at His mercy. This passage is the crescendo. While it asserts the responsibility of man and God’s pleasure in the ultimacy of His grace, it chiefly justifies God in His awesome sovereignty.
Scripture References: Romans 9:19-23
