In the sermon "Stand Fast in the Liberty of Christ" by Allan Jellett, the main theological topic addressed is the believer's freedom in Christ as it relates to the covenant of grace versus the covenant of works. Jellett emphasizes the mutually exclusive nature of these covenants, arguing that salvation cannot be obtained through the Law, but only through faith in Jesus Christ, as outlined in Galatians 5:1-6. He references Acts 15, Romans 7, and Ephesians 6 to illustrate the burden of the Mosaic Law and the true liberty believers find in Christ. The doctrinal significance of this message lies in the affirmation of justification by faith alone, which establishes that dependence on works for sanctification undermines the sufficiency of Christ’s atonement, risking the believer's standing in grace.
Key Quotes
“To attempt favour with God by law works of any kind will punch that hole in the lifeboat of supposed salvation, and it'll do it below the waterline, and it will sink.”
“He is either all, or he is nothing to you for salvation from sin.”
“In Christ Jesus, neither circumcision availeth anything, nor uncircumcision. These outward things mean nothing. All that matters is this, faith working by love.”
“I'm a poor sinner and nothing at all, worthy only of condemnation in myself, but Jesus Christ is my all in all.”
The Bible teaches that salvation is through faith in Christ alone, apart from works of the law (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Salvation is a significant theme throughout the Scriptures, and it ultimately addresses humanity's desperate need for rescue from sin and condemnation. As outlined in Galatians, we learn that the first covenant, which demands perfect obedience to the law, reveals our inability to attain righteousness on our own and therefore points us to Christ, the ultimate source of salvation. In John 3:16, it is clear that 'God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.' This indicates that salvation is offered through faith in Jesus Christ, who said in John 14:6, 'I am the way, the truth, and the life. No man cometh unto the Father, but by me.'
Ephesians 2:8-9, Galatians 3:13, John 3:16, John 14:6
Predestination is taught in Scripture, affirming that God chose His elect before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4-5).
The doctrine of predestination is firmly grounded in the teachings of Scripture, particularly in passages such as Ephesians 1:4-5, where it states that God chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless. This concept emphasizes God's sovereignty and divine will in the salvation of His people. Furthermore, Romans 8:29 asserts that God foreknew those whom He predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son. Thus, the belief in predestination upholds not only God's authority over salvation but also offers assurance to believers that their salvation is rooted in God's eternal purpose and grace.
Ephesians 1:4-5, Romans 8:29
Grace is vital for Christians as it is by grace that we are saved through faith, not by our works (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Grace is the cornerstone of the Christian faith, as it represents the unmerited favor of God toward humanity. This crucial element teaches us that our salvation is not based on our works or righteousness but solely on God's benevolence. Ephesians 2:8-9 emphasizes this by declaring, 'For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast.' This foundational truth frees believers from the burdensome yoke of trying to earn their salvation through human effort, allowing them to live in the freedom of Christ's accomplished work. Recognizing the depth of God's grace encourages a lifestyle of gratitude and obedience, stemming from love rather than obligation.
Ephesians 2:8-9
The Bible teaches that true faith produces works, but we are justified by faith alone, not by our works (James 2:17).
Scriptural teaching emphasizes that while faith is the means by which we are justified before God, true faith inevitably produces good works as evidence of a transformed life. James 2:17 states, 'Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.' This shows that genuine faith manifests itself through actions, demonstrating the authenticity of one's belief. However, it is essential to understand that our works are not a basis for justification; rather, they are a response to the grace we have received. In Romans 3:28, Paul states, 'Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law,' indicating that salvation is a gift of grace received through faith, while good works are the fruit that flows from that salvation.
James 2:17, Romans 3:28
Comments
Your comment has been submitted and is awaiting moderation. Once approved, it will appear on this page.
Be the first to comment!