The sermon titled "Storm Warning #104" addresses the doctrine of Christ's deity through the narrative of Jesus calming the storm in Mark 4. The preacher emphasizes that Jesus is not merely a prophet but the incarnate Yahweh of the Old Testament, as evidenced by His authority over creation. This assertion is supported with references to Psalms 107 and the divine prerogative of walking on water as described in Matthew 14, which affirms Jesus' identity as God. The practical significance revolves around the assurance of salvation for believers derived from Christ’s perfect righteousness rather than their own abilities, resonating with Reformed concepts of justification by faith alone and the total depravity of humanity. Ultimately, the message encourages listeners to seek solace and confidence in Christ during spiritual and temporal storms.
Key Quotes
“When Jesus calmed the storm, he was demonstrating that he was the Lord, the almighty Yahweh of Psalms 107.”
“Brethren, we are heirs of Christ, not through our perfection, but by his perfection, not by our works, but by his grace.”
“Total depravity means we have no righteousness of our own working.”
“Today is the day of salvation. Call upon the name of the Lord Jesus Christ while he may be found.”
The Bible teaches that all humans are totally depraved due to the fall of Adam, resulting in a complete inability to seek or obtain righteousness on their own.
Total depravity is a fundamental doctrine in Reformed theology that asserts every part of humanity is affected by sin. Romans 3:10 states, 'There is none righteous, no, not one,' illustrating that none can attain righteousness by their own efforts. Furthermore, Romans 5:12 explains that sin entered the world through one man, Adam, and death through sin, leading to a state where all are born spiritually dead, lacking the desire for God. This doctrine emphasizes our complete reliance on God's grace for salvation, highlighting that righteousness cannot be achieved through works but solely through faith in Jesus Christ.
Romans 3:10, Romans 5:12, Ephesians 2:8-9, Romans 3:19-20
The Bible provides clear evidence of Jesus' divine nature through his authority over nature, miracles, and fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.
The assertion that Jesus is God is deeply founded in Scripture. In Mark 4, Jesus calms a storm, demonstrating authority that only God possesses. The disciples' question, 'What manner of man is this?' reflects their realization of his divine majesty. Additionally, Jesus walking on water, as recounted in Matthew 14, establishes his sovereignty over creation and aligns him with Yahweh, who commands the seas in Psalm 107. These acts are not mere miracles; they are revelations of his divine identity. Thus, through his works and the fulfillment of prophecies, it is affirmed that Jesus is indeed the eternal God incarnate.
Mark 4:39, Psalm 107:29, Matthew 14:22-25
Grace is essential for Christians as it is the means by which we are saved and justified, not through our works but through faith in Jesus Christ.
In Reformed theology, grace is the unmerited favor of God bestowed upon sinners. Ephesians 2:8-9 emphasizes that we are saved by grace through faith, and this is not our own doing; it is the gift of God. This doctrine liberates believers from the burden of earning righteousness, as Christ's perfect obedience and sacrifice fulfill the law's demands. The reality that our justification is based solely on Christ's righteousness reassures us of our standing before God. Furthermore, understanding the nature of grace instills gratitude and humility within us, compelling us to live in a manner that honors God and reflects his love to others.
Ephesians 2:8-9, Romans 10:4
Christ's righteousness is significant because it is the basis for our justification before God, as we are credited with His perfect obedience.
The doctrine of Christ's righteousness is central to the gospel message. Romans 10:4 states that Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes. This means that our justification is not based on our adherence to the law but on the perfect righteousness of Christ. When we accept Christ by faith, His righteousness is imputed to us, allowing us to stand before God not only as forgiven but as justified and declared righteous. This truth is vital to Christian assurance; knowing that we are clothed in Christ's righteousness rather than our flawed attempts meets the requirements of God's perfect justice.
Romans 10:4, 2 Corinthians 5:21
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