In the sermon "Fulfilling the Law," Don Bell addresses the theological significance of Jesus Christ's obedience to the Law, as illustrated in Luke 2:21-24. The preacher emphasizes that Christ fulfilled the Law through His circumcision and presentation at the temple, underscoring a Reformed understanding of the covenant's continuity and the necessity of Christ's obedience for redemption. Bell highlights how Jesus' circumcision was essential for His identification with humanity and qualification as the true Messiah. He draws from Deuteronomy and Matthew to explain that the Law brought a curse for sin, but through Christ’s fulfillment, believers are freed from condemnation and secured in grace. The practical significance lies in recognizing Christ as the sole Savior, providing assurance of salvation for those who trust Him.
Key Quotes
“He was made under the law to redeem us out from under the curse of the law.”
“There’s only one righteousness. We don’t have one. Christ is the end of the law for righteousness.”
“Thou shalt call his name Jesus. He came to be Lord and Savior.”
“Our Lord Jesus Christ came to be a sin offering for our uncleanness.”
The Bible teaches that Jesus fulfilled the law by perfectly obeying it, as he was made under the law to redeem us from its curse.
The Bible reveals that Jesus Christ's life was characterized by complete obedience to the law. In Luke 2:21-24, we see Jesus circumcised on the eighth day and presented to the Lord at forty days, actions that adhered to the law of Moses. According to Matthew 5:17, Jesus stated, 'I did not come to destroy the law, but to fulfill it.' His perfect adherence to the law was essential for Him to be our Savior; only one who is without sin could bear the sins of others. Therefore, Jesus fulfilled every requirement of the law, ensuring that He could redeem those who were bound under its curse.
Luke 2:21-24, Matthew 5:17
We know Jesus is our Savior because He was appointed as such before His birth and came to save His people from their sins.
The assurance that Jesus is our Savior rests on His identity and mission. The angel declared in Matthew 1:21, 'For He will save His people from their sins.' This indicates that His purpose was established even before His conception, affirming His role as Savior. Furthermore, His fulfillment of the law and His sacrificial death played a crucial role in His redemptive work. Jesus' ability to save is rooted in His righteous life, His payment for sin, and the promise that He shall save all who trust in Him, affirming that He is indeed the Savior of all who believe.
Matthew 1:21, Romans 3:23-26
Grace is vital for Christians because it signifies God's unmerited favor, allowing us to receive salvation and forgiveness through faith in Jesus Christ.
Grace is a foundational concept in Christian theology and is intrinsically linked to our salvation. Ephesians 2:8-9 states, 'For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.' This emphasizes that salvation is not earned through works but is a gracious gift from God. Understanding grace helps Christians recognize their inability to achieve righteousness on their own and the necessity of relying on Christ's finished work. This not only fosters humility but also deepens our relationship with God, as we are reminded of His relentless love and mercy toward us, enabling us to live in gratitude and obedience.
Ephesians 2:8-9, Romans 5:1-2
Being a disciple of Christ means following Him, learning from His teachings, and living a life that reflects His character.
To be a disciple of Christ, one must commit to following His teachings and example. In John 8:31, Jesus stated, 'If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed.' This entails understanding and applying His teachings in daily life. Moreover, discipleship also includes the process of transformation; as we learn from Christ, we should increasingly reflect His likeness in character and actions. Discipleship is not merely intellectual assent but an active relationship that further deepens through prayer, fellowship with other believers, and service to others as we seek to glorify God in all we do.
John 8:31, Matthew 28:19-20
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