The BIG Picture (Shorts)

Part 4 of 4 • ⏱️ 2-Min Read Passage: Romans 3:27-31 Scripture Focus: “Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.” (Rom.3:28) Today’s Lesson Having shown that righteousness comes through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, Paul now draws out the practical conclusion: boasting is excluded. If a sinner could contribute anything toward his own justification, he would have something to glory in. But because justification rests entirely upon what Christ has done, nothing is left for man to claim. Paul says it is excluded, not by a law of works, but by the law of faith. The conclusion is plain: a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. The word “without” matters. Faith is not mixed with works to complete the job, and works are not a supplement to faith. In the matter of justification, God separates them entirely. The believer is declared righteous because he believes God, not because he performs for God. This truth also remov...

Part 1 of 3 • ⏱️ 2-Min Read Passage: Rom.2:1-11 Scripture Focus: "For there is no respect of persons with God." (Rom.2:11) Today's Lesson In the opening movement of Romans chapter two, the apostle Paul addresses the moralist who stands in self-righteous condemnation of others. Having exposed the blatant wickedness of the pagan world, Paul turns the mirror toward those who consider themselves morally superior. The central doctrinal truth established here is that God's judgment is according to truth, fully impartial, and uninfluenced by human pretense or external privilege. When an individual condemns another for wrongdoing while secretly or openly committing similar offences, they store up wrath against themselves. God does not measure righteousness by human comparison or religious heritage. His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering are designed to lead man to repentance, not to foster presumption or false security. Furthermore, God will render to every man accord...