February 28, 2012

Opening Hymns:
Let the Walls Fall Down (Red Praise Book 262)

Scripture Reading:
Romans 4:13-25

Message: Law
For anyone who believes that works can get you into heaven, this scripture will shake that belief. Here, Paul is addressing this belief by using the Abraham as an example. Paul knows that many of those who believe in the importance of works would have arguments related to the scriptures from the Torah. Thus, Paul also shows them through the scriptures in the Torah that it is not through the law that we are saved, but through faith.

Earlier in chapter 4 Paul states “what then shall we say that Abraham, our forefather, discovered in this matter? If, in fact, Abraham was justified by works, he had something to boast about—but not before God. What does the scripture say? ‘Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.’” (Romans 4:1-3). We need to recognize that we cannot do it ourselves, and that we don’t have anything to boast about before God.

I can’t imagine the stress of trying to live a flawless life in order to make it into heaven. I can only imagine that I would feel empty and separated from my Creator, never able to measure up. However, rather than requiring perfection from us, the Lord asks us to have a relationship with Him. What a blessing… to try and do right in the world because of the love of our Father, rather than the demand of the law.

Time of Prayer
Dear Lord, thank You for forgiving us of our sins. Thank You for calling us to have a relationship with You. It is a blessing to call on Your Name when we are lost, happy, or sad. Thank You for loving us. Amen


The Lord’s Prayer


Closing Hymn
The Sweetest Name of All (Red Praise Book 246)
Spirit Song (Red Praise Book (287)

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, serve the Lord
Thanks be to God