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 - February 18, 2024
Confidence in God who Calls
Paul returns to his thesis of the utter trustworthiness of God. The conclusion of Romans 9 answers its opening challenge. Can those in Christ have confidence? Is it true that nothing will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ? Is the gospel promise unshakably certain? If so, then how is it that Israel is separated from God when He made promises to them? Has the word of God failed in this instance? Romans 9 answers these questions with a thorough justification of the God of grace. Israel has failed in her stewardship. The fault is hers. But even this was foretold in Scripture. God only promised that a remnant of Israel would be saved. To the very detail of His Word He has been faithful. More than this, He has been gracious to use Israel’s evil for the good of Gentiles. Crowning this chapter is a remarkable demonstration of God’s sovereign faithfulness. Its purpose is to engender confidence in all who are called in Christ.
Scripture References: Romans 9:24-29
