Unlimited: The “Good News” Religion
Oct 22, 2019 1534
And to the one who does not
work but believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as
righteousness (Romans 4:5, ESV).
There are only two
religions in the world, and only one of them is pleasing to God. The popular
religion of the world says, “Be good and God will love you.” This religion is
human-centered, works-centered, subjective, and vain.
In contrast, Bible
religion – the Good News religion – is that Christ came into the world to save
sinners. He loves and accepts us even while we are sinners. It is this
acceptance that changes us. God “justifies the ungodly” (Romans 4:5, NKJV).
The glory of the New
Testament religion is that we are saved on the basis of what Christ has done,
not by what we do; by what he has felt, not by what we feel.
Salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone.
The righteousness by
which we are justified is 100 percent, but it is imputed rather than imparted.
The righteousness of sanctification is imparted by the Holy Spirit, but it is
never 100 percent in this life.
As Christians, we do
not need to be anxious about what God thinks of us. We only need to remember what God thinks of Christ, our
Substitute. We do not need to make our peace with God, for Christ has already
done that, and Christ is our Peace.
– Des Ford (adapted)
Eli’s Reflection: If there are only two religions, which one do you believe in: the Good News religion or the good works religion? God sees Jesus when He sees you. You do not have to prove yourself to God. You are at peace with Him because of the Good News religion.
Lawoh A. Barrie
Oct 22, 2019
No man can boast by his perfection or boast of his strength but the grace of God by sending his only son Jesus Christ. Thanks a lot for such inspiring message (post).
Nathaniel
Oct 22, 2019
Thank you for your message Dr. Gonzalez. Salvation is not based on what we do, it is a free gift from God.
Pauline
Oct 22, 2019
James 1:27