Romans 1-3
These three chapters are the important foundation of the entire book. Here Paul sets forth the reason for writing the entire thing. He is trying to express to the Christians (both Jew and Greek in Rome) that what makes someone a true Christian (the buzz word he uses is circumcised instead of Christian) is the way that they live. Do they allow the Holy Spirit to lead and guide their life. He explains that even some non-Christians behave better than Christians. This is actually evidence that the Holy Spirit works on those people even though they deny the power that is leading them. But the point is, the way that we honor our creator when we take is name (by calling ourselves a Christian) is to act like Christ. He goes on to explain that this happens through faith in every case. Neither the Christian, Jew or Gentile, can represent a character like Christ except through faith.
It is clear here that he was talking about outward correctness because he uses the word works or deeds. This means that we are talking about something more than simply justification by faith but also sanctification by faith. Both of them must happen only through faith and Christ living in our lives.
I desire to not just be forgiven but also to have that outward correctness, that I may honor my Lord to the people around me as I act like Christ.
Created almost 2 years ago
