Subject: The Gospel of Christ |
Bible Note: Dear David, Well said, son... In reading your post, It brings me to thinking of the young Martin Luther, and his struggles with Romans 1:17. The man being embedded in romanist theology had quite a hard time coming to the doctrine of grace, and realizing that righteousness is gained apart from works. Through hard study of Rom 1-3, understanding the true nature of sin and mans total depravity, young Luther just about drove the priest in the confessional crazy with his continuous confessions. He'd no sooner then leave the both and turn around to confess something that he'd forgotten, or even a thought that had perhaps just come into his head that was sinful to his conscience. I'll bet that priest was one man who was very relieved that Luther had embraced his theology of righteousness through faith and not works, like, twenty-five trips to the confessional or fifty hail Mary's for penance! (Rom 5:15) I suppose my point is, a good understanding of Romans can give us so much peace of mind and spirit. Putting aside our tendency to externally legalize our walk with God, gives us the liberty to enjoy God and live out the Gospel in love, peace, contentment of heart and mind, and true, unspeakable joy in the Lord! (Rom 11:29) Thanks again for a good post, David, I really appreciate your contribution to the forum. :-) John |