A Pauline Paradox

For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.  Ephesians 2:8-9  NASB Grace/works – I used to think I knew what Paul was writing about.  Decades ago, I had the right theological perspective on Paul.  He was…

Saved by Effort

who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity,  2 Timothy 1:9 NASB Our works– Luther established a concrete barricade between faith and works.  He was wrong.  Because he thought of faith as cognitive agreement to certain doctrines,…

Not Applicable

Therefore it is not surprising if his servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness, whose end will be according to their deeds. 2 Corinthians 11:15 NASB According to their deeds – Paul was afraid that his readers would be led astray. He was afraid they would embrace “another Jesus,” one not found as leader…

Utter Confusion

But are you willing to recognize, you foolish fellow, that faith without works is useless?  James 2:20  NASB You foolish fellow – Oswald Chambers’ devotional for October 28 makes an astounding statement.  “I am not saved by believing; I realize that I am saved by believing.  It is not repentance that saves me, repentance is…

Altered State

But are you willing to recognize, you foolish fellow, that faith without works is useless? James 2:20  NASB Useless – According to this translation, James doesn’t say, “faith without works is false belief.”  He doesn’t say, “faith without works is carnal.”  He doesn’t say, “faith without works is hypocrisy.”  According to this translation, he says…

“Not my problem, man”

“You see that a man is justified by works and not by faith alone.” James 2:24 Thursday night, 7 PM.  The weekly Bible study at our home.  We’re making our way through Genesis, one verse at a time.  We read the passage where God establishes the covenant with Abram.  We followed the reference as it…