The sermon “Storm Warning #190” addresses the doctrine of justification by faith alone and the free grace of God in salvation. The speakers underscore that salvation is completely based on Christ’s completed work and that no human efforts can contribute to one's righteousness, referencing key Scriptures such as Romans 3:20, Galatians 2:16, and Isaiah 55:1. They emphasize that it is through acknowledging one's spiritual poverty that one can fully embrace the free gift of grace offered in Christ, highlighting the contrast between self-righteousness and the humility of receiving salvation as a pure act of divine mercy. The sermon serves to encourage believers to find comfort in their relationship with Christ, who is described as the source of peace and rest amid earthly tribulations.
Key Quotes
“Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. A free gospel is the glory of God's grace, the joy of humble souls...”
“If righteousness comes by legal obedience, as many suppose, then Christ is dead in vain.”
“Sinners are justified by grace on the basis of the righteous obedience of Christ Jesus our Lord.”
“Today is the day of salvation. Call upon the name of the Lord Jesus Christ while he may be found...”
The Bible states that salvation is a gift of God’s grace, not earned by works.
Scripture reveals that salvation is entirely by God's sovereign grace. In Ephesians 2:8-9, it is written, 'For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.' This underscores the essential truth that human efforts cannot secure God's favor; rather, it is Christ’s perfect obedience and sacrificial death that enable our justification before God. John 3:16 also affirms this when it proclaims God's love in sending His Son for our salvation, reinforcing the unmerited nature of grace.
Ephesians 2:8-9, John 3:16
The doctrine of justification is grounded in Scripture and posits that we are made right with God through faith in Christ’s righteousness.
Justification, according to Romans 3:20-24, illustrates that righteousness cannot be attained through the law but is granted freely through faith in Jesus Christ. Paul emphasizes that we are justified by grace as a gift through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. This is fundamental to understanding how sinners can stand before a holy God, as it is Christ's righteousness imputed to believers, not their own works, that secures their justification. As stated in Galatians 2:16, 'a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ,' establishing the transformative power of belief in Christ alone.
Romans 3:20-24, Galatians 2:16
God's sovereignty assures Christians of His control over all creation and His ultimate plan for salvation.
The sovereignty of God is vital for Christians as it affirms His absolute control and authority over all aspects of creation, including salvation. As portrayed in Psalm 97:1-2, 'The Lord reigns; let the earth rejoice,' this passage emphasizes that God's reign promotes peace and provides a firm foundation for believers. Recognizing God's sovereignty dispels anxiety and fosters trust, as seen in Romans 8:28, where all things work for the good of those who love God, thus assuring believers that His plans for them are perfect and purposeful. The sovereignty of God encourages faith amidst tribulations, allowing believers to rest in the assurance that nothing occurs outside of His divine will.
Psalm 97:1-2, Romans 8:28
Coming to Christ for rest means seeking Him for spiritual solace and salvation from burdens.
Christ invites all who are weary and burdened to come to Him for rest, as articulated in Matthew 11:28-30. This divine invitation emphasizes that true rest is found in the person of Jesus, who promises to relieve our spiritual labor and the weight of sin. The text highlights His gentleness and lowliness, ensuring that He is accessible to all who seek peace for their souls. Believing in Christ enables a transformation where burdens are lifted, and believers can experience profound peace regardless of life's tribulations. This is reflective of the grace that empowers believers to live fully despite external challenges, resting in the assurance of His presence and provision.
Matthew 11:28-30
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