Teaching Pastor John examines the perceived conflict between a God who is both just and merciful. How does Scripture reconcile God’s need to be just with his desire to show mercy? The answer, of course, is Jesus. At the end of today’s message Pastor John gives us a recommendation for a New Year’s resolution – a formula for loving others that involves the reflection of God’s justice, mercy and faithfulness in our lives.
Our Bible text for Today’s Message is from Rom 3:21-26
The Fulfillment of the Law
21 But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. 22 This righteousness is given through faith in[a] Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. 25 God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement,[b] through the shedding of his blood—to be received by faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished— 26 he did it to demonstrate his righteousness at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus.
New International Version (NIV)
Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
