The BIG Picture (Shorts)

The Gospel of Grace: A Walk Through Romans Section 2: Justification by Faith (Rom.3–5) Justified Freely by His Grace Scripture Focus: "Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:" (Rom.3:24) Today's Lesson Romans 3 establishes the ultimate equality of all humanity under sin. Both Jew and Gentile stand condemned before God, for none is righteous on their own merits. The law was never given to grant righteousness; rather, its purpose is to stop every mouth and bring knowledge of sin. By the deeds of the law, no flesh can be justified in His sight. Yet, where human effort fails completely, divine grace intervenes. God has manifested His righteousness apart from the law, witnessed by the law and the prophets. This righteousness is given unto all and upon all them that believe, without distinction or national favour. Since all have sinned and come short of the glory of God, justification cannot be earned or achieved through religious dut...

The Gospel of Grace: A Walk Through Romans Section 1: The Condemnation of All Mankind (Romans 1–3) Romans 2: The Fallacy of Self-Righteousness Scripture Focus: "For there is no respect of persons with God." (Rom.2:11) Today's Lesson Paul turns his attention from the openly ungodly to the moralist and religious hypocrite. The natural temptation when reading of extreme wickedness is to sit in judgment, assuming personal morality grants special favour with God. However, God judges according to truth, not outward appearances or religious privilege. Possessing or knowing the law does not justify anyone; only perfect obedience can satisfy its demands. Because no individual keeps the law perfectly, relying on personal works or heritage only increases condemnation. God examines the secrets of the heart, exposing hidden sins that religious performance attempts to cover. Furthermore, true circumcision is not an external, physical ritual, but a spiritual work performed in the heart ...