In Don Fortner's sermon titled "The Living God," he explores the nature and attributes of God as revealed in Acts 14:8-17, emphasizing the concept of the living God in contrast to the dead idols worshiped by the people of Lystra. Fortner argues that false religion is characterized by three fundamental errors: disbelief in the one true God, reliance on works alongside the sacrifice of Christ, and the exaltation of men rather than God. He supports his claims with scripture, notably Acts 14:11-15, while also referencing Exodus 34:6-7 to illustrate God's dual nature of mercy and justice. The practical significance of this message underscores the importance of understanding God as the sovereign and compassionate Creator who saves His elect, cautioning against the pervasive tendencies of human pride and works-based religion.
Key Quotes
“Aren't you blessed to believe all it takes to put away your sin as a sacrifice of Christ, his precious blood?”
“The only way a man can really minister and preach Christ to sinners with the heart that cares for them is if he's a sinner too.”
“If God must punish sin, he must punish it with death; can you please tell me how he can forgive my sin? I'm glad you asked.”
“God will not be frustrated in His purpose; His elect are going to hear the gospel, and they're going to believe it.”
The Bible describes the living God as merciful, just, compassionate, and sovereign over all creation.
In Acts 14, Paul and Barnabas proclaim the living God who made heaven and earth, highlighting His nature as both merciful and just. As expressed in Exodus 34:6-7, He reveals Himself as merciful and gracious, yet He will not clear the guilty, highlighting His justice. Additionally, Psalm 103 reminds us that the living God is compassionate, dealing with His people not according to their sins but according to His great mercy. Ultimately, God's sovereignty is underscored in Isaiah 45, where He asserts His control over every event in creation, declaring that nothing can thwart His purpose.
Acts 14:8-17, Exodus 34:6-7, Psalm 103:10-12, Isaiah 45:1-7
God's mercy and justice are revealed in His dealings with sinners, especially through the sacrifice of Christ.
God describes Himself as merciful and just, as seen in Exodus 34:6-7, where He balances mercy with justice. He offers forgiveness and mercy to sinners, reserving His wrath for those who remain unrepentant. The ultimate demonstration of His mercy is found in the cross, where Christ bore the punishment for sin, allowing God to be both just in punishing sin and merciful in forgiving those who believe in Christ. Thus, we see God's character manifest in the salvation He provides through His Son.
Exodus 34:6-7, Romans 3:26
Understanding God's sovereignty reassures Christians that He controls all aspects of life and salvation.
God's sovereignty is crucial for Christians as it declares that He is in control of every event and every action. As stated in Isaiah 45, God orchestrates all occurrences according to His divine plan, ensuring that nothing can thwart His will. This understanding fosters trust in God's providential care—knowing that every detail of our lives is under His authority provides comfort and strength during trials. Moreover, it reassures believers that their salvation is secure, as God will accomplish His purpose in bringing His elect to faith.
Isaiah 45:1-7, Romans 8:28-30
The covenant of grace is God's promise to save a specific people through Christ, rooted in His sovereign will.
The covenant of grace is a foundational tenet of Reformed theology, illustrating God's eternal promise to save a specific people chosen by grace. As seen in Deuteronomy 7:7-8, God does not choose His people based on merit but according to His love and the promise made to the fathers. This covenant is fulfilled through Jesus Christ, who accomplished the necessary righteousness and paid the penalty for sin. The Holy Spirit then awakens faith in the elect through the preaching of the gospel, ensuring that God's purposes are realized in the lives of those whom He has chosen.
Deuteronomy 7:7-8, John 6:37, Ephesians 1:4-5
God's compassion is evident in His mercy towards sinners and His understanding of our weaknesses.
God's compassion is a defining characteristic of His relationship with His people. Psalm 103 emphasizes that He does not deal with us according to our sins but shows continual mercy to those who fear Him. This compassion deeply contrasts human tendencies, as He understands our frailties and remembers that we are dust. In Christ, this compassion is fully revealed; our great High Priest empathizes with our struggles and intercedes on our behalf. His compassion encourages believers to approach Him in prayer, knowing He understands and cares for each personal burden.
Psalm 103:10-14, Hebrews 4:15-16
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