Thoughts on Life and Worship

Those who theologize as they are reading the Scriptures (we all do, as a matter of fact) sometimes stumble as they encounter a seeming contradiction between Paul and James.   Paul: What then shall we say that Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh, discovered in this matter?   If, in fact, Abraham was justified by works, he had something to boast about—but not before God. What does Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.” Now to the one who works, wages are not credited as a gift but as an obligation. However, to the one who does not work but trusts God who justifies the ungodly, their faith is credited as righteousness (Romans 4:1-5). James: What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them?   Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food.   If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but do...

One of the themes that run throughout the New Testament is our union by faith with Christ in his death and resurrection.   It is this reality that is at the core of us having everything that we need for life and godliness (II Peter 1:3).   Paul prays that the Ephesian believers would grasp the fullness of this truth: I pray that you will begin to understand the incredible greatness of his power for us who believe him.   This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God’s right hand in the heavenly realms   (Ephesians 1:19-20 NLT). Paul elaborates further in 2:6   For he raised us from the dead along with Christ, and we are seated with him in the heavenly realms – all because we are one with Christ Jesus. While I was preparing to deliver a sermon on this theme, I encountered Christ’s words John 10:18: No one can take my life from me.   I lay down my life voluntarily.   For I ...