Why the Law Is Preached Strictly
Minister: |
Rev. Ronald Van Overloop |
Date: |
3/18/2018 AM
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Text:
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Romans 7;
Lord's Day 44
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Psalters: |
229, 321, 42, 110 |
- To identify sin.
- The correct knowledge of sin is essential to a healthy Christian experience.
- The only ones who know that they need Jesus are those who are admit that they are sinners in God’s sight.
- All men, by nature, deny or excuse it, minimize its seriousness and its horrible nature.
- God’s law reveals the perfect God, and thus accurately identifies and describes sin (not the opinions and judgments of men).
- The more we know God, the more we know the real nature of our sins and especially of our sinfulness.
- Romans 7 provides the mature, converted saint with the right knowledge of his sins and sinfulness.
- This is a constant matter for humility!
- It is the knowledge of sin which drives one to Jesus, for forgiveness and righteousness are only in Him.
- The faith which enables me to see that my sin is committed against God’s majesty, also shows me Jesus.
- My faith’s awareness of my sins and sinfulness is humbling, but it does not despair (as the devil wants).
- The “strict” preaching of the law calls me a sinner, weary, thirsty and hungry, and then it shows me grace, rest, water and bread of life.
- Though we constantly fail, there remains burning within the desire and love for God’s commandments (Rom. 7:22).
- The converted life in Christ has a sincere resolution to begin to live according to all of God’s commands (Canons V-2).
- We do not simply confess sin and sinfulness and merrily go on unchanging.
- We press toward perfection by mortifying.
- And we press toward perfection by thanking God for the wonder of salvation.
- Gratitude is the high motive for striving to make every aspect of our life subservient to our loving Lord..
- And we strive to live in increasing closer fellowship with Him, and longing for the day when we will be able to do so perfectly.