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December 7, 2015
Justice and Mercy - Romans 3
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The sinful condition of mankind presents us with a dilemma: How can a holy, righteous God forgive our sins? If He deals with us only on the basis of His justice, every human being would suffer the eternal punishment of His wrath, which their sins deserve. But if He extends mercy instead of justice, no one would pay the penalty for sin, and God would then cease to be just.
There was only one way the Lord could stay true to His nature and at the same time forgive our sins. The solution was to satisfy His justice by pouring out His wrath on a substitute. Then the penalty for sin would be paid, and He would be free to extend mercy to sinners. This is the only plan that accommodates both aspects of His divine nature. So Christ came as our substitute; He took the punishment for our sin, enabling us to experience the Father's mercy. Now, by placing faith in Jesus, anyone can be justified - that is, declared legally righteous.
God's plan of salvation is simple enough for a child to understand. Yet at the same time, the complexities of the transaction that occurred at Calvary are far beyond human comprehension. Although we may not fully grasp what transpired there, we can know that the cross is the greatest possible display of the Lord's love for us.
Can you even imagine the cost of your salvation? The magnificent plan of the Father and the willing cooperation of the Son prove your tremendous value in God's eyes. From His perspective, you are worth all the pain and suffering that was necessary to secure your eternal presence with Him in heaven.
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Current Sermon
Series
Last year, as well as earlier this year we studied In The Beginning..., how this world began. We covered the topics of God, Creation, the fall of Satan, the fall of mankind, and the promise of redemption. We briefly covered the first 3 chapters of Genesis. Join us as we continue this series, as we cover the next few chapters in Genesis. Lord willing, we will look at Cain and Abel, Generations of Adam, Noah, and other topics.
Last Week:
We looked at how we should be interpreting the Bible, more specifically the book of Genesis. We also saw how the flood prevailed. The most important point that we discussed yesterday was that of the total destruction of all life.
Sunday's message is available for
streaming or for download on our sermons page, or by visiting us on iTunes.
Next Week:
We will continue our study of Genesis by looking into chapter 8. We will delve into Restoration of Mankind.
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Upcoming Events
December 13 - Cantata Practice at the church at 5 PM
Deacon's Meeting at the church at 8 AM
December 24 - Christmas Eve Service at 5 PM. We will be having the Christmas Cantata Hope Has Hands.
December 27 - Lord's Supper & Deacon's Fund Offering following AM Worship Service.
January 20 - Annual Business Meeting at the church at 7:30 PM
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