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The Successful Savior

     “He shall not fail nor be discouraged” (Isaiah 42:4). Is it possible that the omnipotent Savior might fail to accomplish His eternal purpose? Could He ordain something and then His decree be frustrated? The Holy Spirit inspired the prophet of God to take pen in hand and settle the issue once and for all: “He shall not fail.” Failure is a human weakness; it indicates the desire to do something, but, due to circumstances either unforeseen or beyond control, the desired outcome is not brought about. Of this much we may be certain: failure is not a word to be used with regard to the Lord our God of whom it is written: “with God, nothing shall be impossible” (Luke 1:37). That which He eternally predestinated (all things), His providence brings to pass in time. “My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure” (Isaiah 46:10). “In Whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of Him who worketh all things after the counsel of His own will” (Ephesians 1:11). Notice three things.

  1. Christ did not fail to redeem all of God’s elect. In His life, death and resurrection He honored the law and made satisfaction to divine justice for the sins of His people. He died that God might be “a just God and a Saviour” (Isaiah 45:21). It was said of Him, “Call His name Jesus; for He shall save His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21).
     
  2. Christ shall not fail to regenerate His chosen ones and bring them to believe the gospel. Though the flesh is enmity against God, though the world opposes the way of grace and though theDevil holds men captive by his will, the Lord’s people shall be confronted with the true gospel, quickened by the Spirit and drawn by effectual grace to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. “Thy people shall be willing in the day of Thy power...” (Psalm 110:3).
     
  3. Christ shall not fail to preserve the elect and bring them all safely home to glory. “And this is the Father’s will which hath sent Me, that of all which He hath given Me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day” (John 6:39).
Topics: Church Bulletin Articles
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