The Promise of Faith
BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “Now it is evident that no one is justified before God by the law, for ‘The righteous shall live by faith.’….But the Scripture imprisoned everything under sin, so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe.” Galatians 3:11,22 ESV
Under the old covenant, the law was the standard that measured conduct acceptable to God. Even though it was recognized that all fell short at some point, the law was still revered as that which was to guide lives and what would determine ones status in God’s eyes.
Today, people use an interesting mix of standards. Some borrow from the Bible, some just arrive at their own standard of what it means to live a “good life.” Many believe that God judges human conduct and determines who is and who is not acceptable to Him.
As Paul writes to the Galatians who were struggling with reverting to the “law” as a standard of salvation, he ask some penetrating questions. The first is, “…Who has bewitched you? It was before your eyes that Jesus Christ was publicly portrayed as crucified.” (Galatians 3:1 ESV) Some may have seen Christ crucified. Others would have heard the gospel message that focused on the cross and the resurrection. It is like Paul is asking, “What part of ‘Christ has died for you to make you right in God’s eyes’, don’t you understand?”
Paul goes on and states that salvation is by faith. Miracles take place by faith. Abraham was declared righteous because of his faith, not his works.
Not only are works and self righteous standards inadequate, they actually bring a curse. We read, “For all who rely on works of the law are under a curse; for it is written,“Cursed be everyone who does not abide by all things written in the Book of the Law, and do them.” (Galatians 3:10 ESV)
So, that which people believe is bringing them life, is actually bring death and judgment, for the “righteous shall live by faith.”
One of the greatest claims for Jews was that they were of the seed of Abraham. But Paul says that by faith even Gentiles become the children of Abraham. Consider the following…
“…those who are of faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith….in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised Spirit[ through faith…if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to promise.” (Galatians 3:9.14,29 ESV)
The confidence we have in God’s eyes does not come from our own effort or any human standards. It comes by being “in Christ” through faith.
Prayer for today…. Lord, thank You that we can have assurance of being accepted by You through simple faith. Faith that brings connection to You. Faith that brings miracles into our life. You have set us free from unattainable standards and reveal that simply surrendering to You and Your provision brings peace and life.