In the sermon titled "Are You A Sheep?", Kent Clark addresses the distinction between the elect (the sheep) and the reprobate (the goats) as portrayed in Scripture. He argues that God's love for His chosen people is profound and everlasting, emphasizing that those whom the Father has given to Jesus are secure in their salvation. Clark references John 17 to underline that Jesus specifically prays for His followers, which indicates that their salvation and security are guaranteed by divine decree. He articulates the Reformed doctrine of unconditional election, highlighting that God's love precedes human action or decision, thereby affirming that believers are drawn to Christ through God’s sovereign grace. The practical significance of this teaching is a reassurance of God's immeasurable love and a call to trust in His redemptive plan, especially for those feeling unworthy or marginalized.
Key Quotes
“Did he just say that God loves me? Like He has loved Christ? Can that be true? That God Almighty has loved me as He loved His own Son? Oh, yes.”
“That means God didn't begin to love me. He's always loved me.”
“You know, we all have a free will. It's all up to us. God's done all He can. No, that's not what it says.”
“God does save us willingly. We're not saved against our will. When God quits us and gives us life and begets us, He makes us willing.”
The Bible teaches that God loves His people with an everlasting love, just as He loves His Son, Jesus.
According to John 17, Jesus reveals that God loves His people with the same love He holds for His Son. This profound truth emphasizes that believers are chosen and cherished by God even before the foundation of the world. The intimacy of this love shows that it is not contingent upon our actions or worth, but rather it is rooted in God's sovereign grace and eternal purposes. As Jesus intercedes for those given to Him, we see the assurance of His love that guarantees our place in eternal life and security in Him.
Furthermore, this love implies a close relationship where Christ is not just a distant savior but a loving shepherd who cares for His sheep. God's love encourages believers to embrace their identity as loved and chosen, which impacts how they live and interact with others, leading to a life filled with gratitude and praise for His redeeming grace.
John 17:6-26, Ephesians 1:4
We know we are chosen for salvation because the Scriptures affirm that God selected specific individuals for salvation from the beginning.
Scripture clearly states that God has chosen certain individuals for salvation, as highlighted in 2 Thessalonians 2:13: 'But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren, beloved by the Lord, because God from the beginning chose you for salvation.' This emphasizes that our salvation is based on God's sovereign choice rather than any action or merit on our part. The notion of being chosen originates from God's eternal and loving nature, ensuring that salvation is part of His divine plan.
Moreover, this doctrine counters the idea that salvation is dependent solely on human will. Instead, it affirms that while we possess the ability to respond to God's call, it is God who effectively changes our hearts, making us willing to come to Him. This truth provides assurance to believers, affirming that their salvation is secure in Christ, who intercedes on their behalf and assures them of their place in His family.
2 Thessalonians 2:13, Ephesians 1:4-5
Understanding our identity as sheep is crucial because it reminds us of our dependence on Christ as our Shepherd for guidance and security.
Recognizing ourselves as sheep emphasizes our need for a shepherd, which is an essential aspect of the Christian faith. In John 17, Jesus identifies believers as those who are given to Him by the Father, illustrating the intimate relationship we share with Him. This analogy of sheep highlights our vulnerability and the necessity of dependence on Christ for direction, protection, and sustenance. When we embrace our identity as sheep, we acknowledge that we cannot navigate life's challenges on our own, nor can we attain salvation through our own efforts.
Additionally, understanding this identity fosters humility and gratitude among believers. It instills a sense of security in God's sovereign love and care, reminding us that we are not aimlessly wandering but are instead pursued by Christ, our Shepherd. This awareness encourages us to rejoice in our salvation and inspires a sense of community among fellow believers, knowing we are part of His flock and that we collectively experience the grace of God.
John 17:9-10, Hebrews 13:20, Psalm 23
Comments
Your comment has been submitted and is awaiting moderation. Once approved, it will appear on this page.
Be the first to comment!