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  • Discovering Eternal Life: The Gift of Salvation in Christ

    Discovering Eternal Life: The Gift of Salvation in Christ

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    An eternal life is the highest possible good obtained through a knowledge of God. It is the ultimate blessing of human salvation.

    Additionally, it is realized through the gift of God’s beloved Son to the world. For the joy to be with you for eternity, Jesus endured the cross. 

    He arose victoriously over sin and death as the first fruit unto God. Thus to be one of the human family, retaining forever His human nature.

    And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. 1 John 5:11.

    So, fasten your faith to the eternal throne. When God gave His Son, He gave us all in that precious gift. 

    He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? Romans 8:32. 

    Table of contents

    A knowledge of eternal life

    The knowledge of God is a knowledge which will not be left behind when our probation closes. It has lasting benefits and usefulness for believers in this life and for eternal life.

    In His prayer to the Father, Christ gave to the world an important lesson. He said: 

    Father, the hour has come. Glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify Thee.

    As Thou hast given Him power over all flesh (people), that He should give eternal life to as many as Thou hast given Him.

    This is life eternal, that they might know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou hast sent. John 17:1-3.

    Knowing God and His Son from His Word and from a daily life experience imparts power. It transforms the individual into the image of God.

    Additionally, God reveals to us the deep things of Himself through His Spirit.

    Jesus said to His audience:

    Search the Scriptures; For in them ye think ye have eternal life. And they are the ones which testify of Me. John 5:39. 

    Christ Himself has declared to be eternal life. He is the eternal Word that was made flesh and the True Witness who said of His sheep:

    I know them, and they follow Me. And I give unto them eternal life. 

    They shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand. Matthew 10:27, 28. 


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    Understanding the information/education of salvation

    Without the help which none but God can give, human wisdom of spiritual things are but weakness and ignorance.

    The Bible is the most comprehensive account of God, humanity and their relationship. 

    For wisdom is a defence, and money is a defence. But the excellency of knowledge is that wisdom giveth life to those who have it. Ecclesiastes 7:12.

    Furthermore, Jesus said:

    It is the Spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing. The words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. John 6:63.

    In His Word, God has revealed to humanity every truth essential for our salvation. And the gift of eternal life is promised on the condition of saving faith in His Son.

    For example:

    The holy scriptures are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus

    All scriptures are given by the inspiration of God, and are profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness. 2 Timothy 3:15, 16.

    Therefore, search the Scriptures, for they are the counsel of God, His voice speaking to your soul.

    An everlasting life as the gift of God

    For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16. 

    Peter had confessed the truth which is the foundation of the believer’s faith. Jesus asked His disciples: Who say ye that I am? Then Peter said:

    Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. Matthew 16:16. 

    At another occasion Jesus asked the twelve, Will ye also go away? 

    Then Simon Peter answered Him: 

    Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life.

    And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God. John 6:68, 69.

    So, the Divine Son of God became Emmanuel – God with us. He can bestow to believers what the Deity only has.

    For example:

    • The hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began. But hath in due times manifested in His Word. Titus 1:2, 3.
    • For the wages of sin is death. But the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 6:23.

    With God all things are possible. Matthew 19:26.


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    Receiving the eternal reward by grace through faith

    By grace you are saved through faith. And that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. Ephesians 2:8. 

    Eternal life is an infinite gift. So, it can never be earned by anyone. As a gift it must be received by faith, and gratitude and praise be offered to God. 

    By faith we bring to God the merits of Christ.

    Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us.

    That being justified by His grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. Titus 3:5-7.

    The eternal reward is not bestowed because of our merits. But, the fruit borne in life testifies to the condition of one’s heart and character.

    Good work can never buy salvation, but it is an evidence of the faith.

    Laying it all by sacrifice

    Christ had borne our sins in His own body on the cross. It demonstrated that God is just to Himself and His law of love by which He governs the entire Universe.

    Moreover, it showed that God can justify those who believe in the atoning sacrifice of His beloved Son.

    The plan of redemption was laid in sacrifice. The apostle Paul said: 

    Ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich. 2 Corinthians 8:9.

    Jesus gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity. Titus 2:14. And we get the ultimate blessing of His redemption – an everlasting life with Him and the Father.

    Christ has made an infinite sacrifice. He gave his own life for us. 

    So, does it seem a small thing that He should endure all this, that we might become: 

    • Members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King.
    • Heirs of God, and joint heirs with Jesus Christ.
    • Partakers of an immortal inheritance.

    The Son of God, the member of the Godhead condescended to the level of fallen humanity. His love for you constrained Him to bear in His body the sin of the broken world. 

    Thus we have the assurance of a Saviour who has come, been crucified and risen. Furthermore, who has proclaimed: 

    I Am the resurrection, and the life. He that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live. John 11:25.

    The question for all of us is: What sacrifice have we made in response to this infinite sacrifice?

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    He arose from the dead and lives

    Christ is the resurrection and the life for believers. The life that was lost through sin is restored in Him.

    For He has life in Himself to quicken whom He will. John 5:21. 

    Thus was proved the truth of His claim:

    I lay down my life, that I might take it again.

    I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. John 10:17, 18

    Moreover, He fulfilled the prophecy He had spoken: Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up. John 2:19. 

    These words could be spoken only by the Deity, who has the power to break the bonds of death. He is a conqueror of the grave and asserted His right and power to give eternal life. 

    For example:

    • But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst. But the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. John 4:14.
    • Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood (metaphor), hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. John 6:54. 

    So, He who hath the Son hath life. 1 John 5:12.

    Conclusion on the eternal gift as gift in Christ

    He that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live. John 11:25.

    Through the knowledge of Christ is life eternal. All His words of revelation to humanity are spirit and life. 

    Christ loved us and gave His life for us. He died on the cross to give us an opportunity to gain the crown of eternal life.

    He lives. His divinity is the believer’s assurance of immortality. 

    So, Fight the good fight of faith and lay hold on eternal life, where-unto thou art also called. 1 Timothy 6:12.

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    References

    COL 114; DA 314, 530, 785 – The Ellen G. White Estate

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    • What resonated with you most in this post, and why?
    • Do you see how the faith working by love supports the believer? It helps them hold on to the blessed hope of eternal life.
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  • God and His Son Acting Together at the Cross: Understanding Their Divine Plan

    God and His Son Acting Together at the Cross: Understanding Their Divine Plan

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    God and His beloved Son are one in purpose and goals about humanity. They have set a redeeming plan even before creating humankind and their home planet. 

    God has promised to execute their plan of human salvation right after our first parents had fallen into sin.

    As part of it, the beloved Son of God “was made sin” to redeem His created beings.

    For He (the Father) has made Him (the Son) to be sin for us, who knew no sin. That we might be made the righteousness of God in Him. 2 Corinthians 5:21. 

    Everything they have done was real and with factual consequences in helping the broken world. All their actions were motivated by their pardoning and infinite love for people

    Christ humbled Himself and trusted His Father even unto death.

    This post gives many scriptural examples. It is not an exhaustive list, but rather they are leading and informative.

    Table of contents

    Sin expanding from Heaven to earth

    As sovereign of the entire Universe including our world, God is the one who deals with the sin problem.   

    According to the inspired Scriptures, there are celestial and human sinful beings. Sin has begun in Heaven and then expanded to earth. 

    By believing the lies of Satan, our first parents Adam and Eve had fallen short of God’s glory. In other words, they had distrusted God as their loving Father. 

    Thus they had fallen from the state of love and truth. They were endowed by God with them, at the time of their creation in His likeness. Thus the children began to misrepresent His Father. 

    Ever since, every successive human generation of Adam and Eve reflects their moral image and not God’s. 

    For example:

    • Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law (love to God and others). 1 John 3:4. 
    • Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me. Psalm 51:5. 
    • For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God. Romans 3:23.

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    Made to be sin for us

    So, it is sin that separates us from God. Thus no one can be happy and withstand the presence of the holy God.

    The prophet Isaiah puts it this way:

    But your iniquities have separated between you and your God. And your sins have hid His face from you, that he will not hear. Isaiah 59:2.

    God can’t change His law of love. It is His nature and is eternal and constant as God is. At the same time He will not force anyone to be with Him. God gives freedom of choice to His creation. 

    But, there are consequences of cutting off the source of all life and development.

    For example:

    • For in him we live, and move, and have our being. As certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring. Acts 17:28.
    • The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son. Ezekiel 18:20.

    Furthermore, God is also just to Himself and to the rest of the Cosmos. And to help our broken world, He and His Divine Son devised the plan of its redemption. 

    It is all based on the principles of love and freedom as it was in the time of human creation. Jesus voluntarily has agreed to be the Lamb of God who takes the sin of the world.

    All for the sake of humanity

    It is amazing to know that all had been set in place beforehand. Even before humankind creation, which God has done through His Son.

    So, Revelation 13:8 describes Jesus as the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.

    Consider the next examples:

    • But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory; 1 Corinthians 2:7.
    • And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hidden in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ; Ephesians 3:9. 
    • Who hath saved us according to His own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began; 2 Timothy 1:9. 

    It had happened the way it was prophesied right after the fall into sin in the garden of Eden. Moreover, the way it was taught by the ceremonial instructions. 

    They all have pointed to Christ as the Messiah – the anointed of God. By His atoning sacrifice on Calvary He became the world’s redeemer. 

    And this is the core of the entire Bible. The inspired Scriptures have revealed how the infinite Love has paid the price for human redemption. 

    For instance:

    The life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me. Galatians 2:20. 

    For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16. 

    But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8.


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    Taking the sin of the world

    When the fullness of time came, the Father and the Son have accomplished their eternal covenant. 

    The beloved Son of God has shed His blood as the ransom to redeem us from the bondage of sin. He took the sin of the world on Himself. 

    In other words, the sins of all people from Adam down the line of time till His second coming. 

    And it was the Father who laid them on His Son as the Lamb of God, who takes the sin of the world, according to the book of John 1:29. 

    For He (the Father) hath made Him (the Son) to be sin for us.

    This was done in reality by the collaborative action of the Godhead’s members. Whatever God says, He does. 

    God is not a man, that He should lie; Hath He said, and shall He not do it? Or hath He spoken, and shall He not make it good? Numbers 23:19.

    Thus your redemption is as real as your creation. 

    For instance:

    • But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities. All we like sheep have gone astray. We have turned every one to his own way. And the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.
    • He hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors. And he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors. Isaiah 53:5, 6, 12.
    • But now thus saith the Lord that created thee, O Jacob, and He that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not. For I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name. Thou art mine. Isaiah 43:1. 

    It was so real, that caused Jesus to sweat blood in Gethsemane, before the cross.

    Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.  
    And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly. And his sweat was as if there were great drops of blood falling down to the ground. Luke 22:42, 44.

    Saving the lost

    Jesus has prayed 3 times the same – if it is possible to pass this cup. The cup was with the sin, guilt and shame of the world. 

    He became a human substitute. On Him were laid our iniquities and He was counted a transgressor. 

    And it caused Christ to experience the unimaginable anguish and sorrow. He said to the disciple, just before His arrest:

    My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death. Matthew 26:38. 

    He was also grieving His local people and the entire world. Christ saw how deep is the hold of sin upon the human heart. Moreover, how few would be willing to break from its power.

    Later on, while the soldiers were doing their work at Calvary, Jesus prayed for His enemies.

    Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. Luke 23:24.

    All that had separated their lives from God began to mock Him as He hung upon the cross.

    For example:

    • If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross. Matthew 27:40.
    • He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God. Luke 23:35.
    • He saved others; himself he cannot save. If he be the King, let him now come down from the cross, and we will believe him. Matthew 27:42.

    Though spoken in mockery, these words led people to search the Scriptures as they had never done before. Thus they saw the meaning of Christ’s mission.  

    Jesus hasn’t saved Himself. He saved His people from their sins. Thus whosoever will can have peace with God and inherit eternal life


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    The Voice from heaven was silent

    Jesus suffered alone the abuse and mockery from wicked people. He had foretold that centuries before the crucifixion.

    For example: 

    • Dogs have compassed Me; The assembly of the wicked have enclosed Me: they pierced My hands and My feet. I may tell all My bones: they look and stare upon Me. They part My garments among them, and cast lots upon My vesture. Psalm 22:16-18.
    • Reproach hath broken My heart. I am full of heaviness. And I looked for some to take pity, but there was none. And for comforters, but I found none. They also gave Me gall for My meat. And in My thirst they gave Me vinegar to drink. Psalm 69:20, 21.

    At that moment no testimonies from heaven were heard in His favor. This time was different from His earlier experience. Throughout His life on earth He had walked in the light of God’s presence.

    When in conflict with people inspired by Satan, He can say:

    He that sent Me is with Me. The Father hath not left Me alone. For I always do those things that please Him. John 8:29

    But now, He can’t see the Father’s face, because of the weight of guilt He bears. 

    The wrath of God against sin (not His Son) filled Him with anxiety and distress. The withdrawal of the Divine countenance pierced His heart with a sorrow unto death. 

    That mental anguish can never be fully understood by humankind. No other ever had the relationship akin to the one of Jesus and His Father.

    Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land until the ninth hour. Matthew 27:45 

    It was a miraculous testimony of God to establish the faith of future generations. The Father was with His Son without revealing His presence from the tick darkness.  

    By this supernatural event God veiled the last human agony of His Son.

    Dying on the cross

    And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? That is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? Matthew 27:46.

    It was not the dread of death nor the pain of the cross that caused His inexpressible agony. His suffering was from a sense of the malignity of sin which broke His heart and caused His death.

    He was the Lamb of God who took the sin of the world. Further, He was the slain Lamb He had chosen to be before the foundation of this world. 

    Thus through His atoning sacrifice Christ became the Substitute and Sinbearer of humanity. He completed His mission outlined by His Father and Himself.

    Jesus offered Himself upon the cross as a sacrifice, becoming sin itself out of His love to you. For the joy to be with you for eternity, He endured the cross. 

    Christ trusted His Father even in the darkest moments without any light of hope. He took the bitter cup.

    Knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the scripture might be fulfilled, He said: I thirst.

    When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, He said: It is finished. And He bowed His head, and gave up the ghost. John 17:28, 30. 

    Christ was acquainted with the character of His Father. He understood His justice, mercy, and love. 

    By faith He rested in Him and was victorious.

    Conclusion on the collaborative divine work

    The Father and the Son had pledged to save humanity before the world was made.

    Christ, the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world, bore our sins in His own body on the cross. He offered Himself as a sacrifice and substitute for the broken world.

    He trusted the Father when He laid on Him the world’s iniquity and made Him to be sin for us

    Thus He was numbered with the transgressors. But, He had a deeper wound that broke His heart and died.

    It was the hiding of His Father’s presence because of His displeasure for sin.

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    References

    DA, 752-756 – The Ellen G. White Estate

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    • What resonated with you most in this post, and why?
    • Do you see how God and His beloved Son collaborated at the cross to fulfill their plan for human redemption?
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  • Had The Law Of Ten Commandments Also Died With Jesus?

    Had The Law Of Ten Commandments Also Died With Jesus?

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    I hope you enjoy reading this post. If you want to delve deeper into this topic – we can help, just get in touch.

    The Law of the Ten Commandments is God’s way of governing human relationships to God and others in their sinful condition. 

    They are imbued fully with His loving nature. The ten precepts of His moral Law demonstrate that by their core principles – love to God and love to each other. 

    God didn’t alter nor negate His Law of love for the entire Universe after the fall at any time. 

    He had not changed Himself nor His Law in His dealing with the change sin made in humans.

    But He gave you undeniable evidence for His love by crucifying Himself in the person of His Son.  

    This post gives answers on questions such as what is the valid Law of God and why. 

    Table of contents

    What did it die (ceased to exist) with Jesus on the cross?

    The laws regulating the Jewish sacrifices and offerings ceased at the death of Christ. It happened when type met anti-type on the cross of Calvary.

    Thus the ceremonial law was done away. The Lamb of God was a complete and perfect offering, once and for all

    The temple’s vail was supernaturally cut in two from top to bottom. As Jesus hung upon the cross and cried: 

    It is finished, the veil of the temple was rented in twain from top to bottom. Matthew 27:51.

    This was to signify that the earthly sanctuary services were forever finished. God would no longer meet with priests in temples to accept their sacrifices.

    Jesus had made an offering of Himself for all. And if saved at all, we must believe in Him as the only offering for sin. Moreover, as the Savior of the world.

    The shed blood of Jesus was to be offered by Himself as our High Priest in the Heavenly Sanctuary. He ever lives to make intercession for us. Hebrews 7:25. 

    He took our nature of flesh and blood, that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death;

    that is, the devil. Hebrews 2:14.


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    Learn more about him.


    Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death

    God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world. But that the world through Him might be saved. John 3:17. 

    For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death. Romans 8:2.

    Jesus Christ is the Son of God and Son of man. He is fully Divine and fully human. Therefore, He is the member of the Godhead and the human family.

    For example:

    • In him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. And you are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power. Colossians 2:9, 10.
    • For whether is easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven you; or to say, Arise, and walk? But that ye may know that the Son of man has power on earth to forgive sins. Matthew 9:5, 6.

    In His human life, Jesus overcome the law of sin and death. He had done it by exemplifying Divine righteousness in His human life. Aka, He lived the moral Law of God.

    Thus He condemned sin, but not people. He put to an end the law of death that sin brought to humanity after the fall. 

    For more, read Condemning Sin, Not People: Deliverance From The Law Of Sin And Death

    Additionally, He became victorious over: 

    • Satan and the sin he had introduced in the Universe.
    • The death that comes from the separation from the Source of life – God Himself. 

    Thus by Christ merits and through His grace, I have the opportunity to be:

    • Saved and made free from the law of sin and death. 
    • Empowered to live the moral law of God’s love – the Ten Commandments.

    What law had Christ “taken out of the way, nailing it to His cross.”

    And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;

    Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us;

    and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross. Colossians 2:13, 14. 

    What was the first thing God did to humans when still on the path of death because of sin? He did forgive them all their transgressions. For example:

    Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:

    Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, 

    through the forbearance of God; Romans 3:24, 25. 

    Those verses tell us that:

    1. Forgiveness, justification and redemption is given by the grace of God.
    2. All is set forth by God through the blood of His Son Jesus Christ.
    3. Past trespasses are erased from the life of one on acceptance of Jesus. 

    Additionally, the handwriting of ordinances was cancelled. Through faith in Christ Jew and Gentile may partake of the living bread.

    The mercy seat, upon which the glory of God rested in the holiest of all, is opened to all who accept Christ as the propitiation for sin.

    This was the end of the ceremonial system. This system was made up of symbols pointing to Christ’s atoning sacrifice and His priesthood. 

    It was to be performed by the Hebrews until type met anti-type in the death of Christ.

    Then all the sacrificial offerings were to cease. It is this law that Christ “took out of the way, nailing it to His cross.” Colossians 2:14. 


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    Confirmation of the Ten Commandments Law validity from Emmanuel – God with us

    With a firm assertion Christ said: 

    Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets. I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill.

    For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Matthew 5:17, 18. 

    Certainly, Jesus hasn’t destroyed the moral Law of God. On the contrary, He has expounded on its spirituality by His teaching.

    Here is one of many examples recorded in the New Testament Book of Matthew 5.

    Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery:

    But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. Matthew 5:27, 28.

    Secondly, Jesus has fulfilled the requirements of the holy Law of God in His life on earth. So, the Divine righteousness in His human character became the glory of His Gospel.

    In addition He said:

    Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven; 

    But whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:19. 

    This Is a profound statement of Jesus. It connects the kipping all of the commandments and the designation or reward one will have in His Kingdom.

    Nothing will pass from the Law, till all be fulfilled

    Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.

    Here Jesus teaches:

    • What the claims of God’s law had been.
    • And were then at His time.
    • These claims should hold as long as the heavens and the earth remain. 

    The Law of God will maintain its claims upon humankind in all ages. About the Law proclaimed from Sinai, Nehemiah said:

    Thou camest down also upon Mount Sinai, and spakest with them from heaven; 

    And gavest them right judgments, and true laws, good statutes and commandments. Nehemiah 9:13.

    Definitely, heaven and earth will pass away as God had promised after the second coming of Jesus. An example is found in the book of Revelation:

    And I (John) saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; Revelation 21:1. 

    As we saw earlier, Jesus had fulfilled the righteous requirements of the Law in His life. For example, in the New Testament Book of John He said: 

     If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love;

    even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in His love. John 15:10. 

    Christ is an example of all things for His followers. 

    Therefore, what needs to be fulfilled still is the righteous character in His followers. 

    Jesus said to His audience:

    That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees,

    ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:20.

    Those people were known as the strict keepers of the law of God. But their hearts were not right with God. 

    They pretend outwardly to be righteous, when their hearts remain selfish and proud. Nevertheless, God can read the heart. 


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    The Law points to Christ as the remedy for everyone’s sin

    Jesus overcame sin, death and ultimately Satan, the originator of them. He condemned sin by His righteous life. 

    He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. 

    For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil. 1 John 3:8.

    Thus He demonstrated that with constant connection with God and through His grace one can keep His Law. In other words, fulfilling the law is the fruit of having the law of love in the heart.

    Additionally, if that law could be done away with, humans might have been saved without the death of Jesus. 

    So, His death did not destroy the Law of His Father. Moreover, by His death He: 

    • Exalted and honored it. 
    • Enforced obedience to all its holy precepts.

    Furthermore, He promised His Divine help to all, who by faith accept Him as Savior and Leader of their life.

    Abide in me, and I in you. For without me ye can do nothing. John 15:4, 5.

    Thus He plainly states that keeping the standard of righteousness in one’s own strength is impossible.

    It is only possible if Christ’s followers abide in His love as He abides in God’s love. Jesus said that He has demonstrated this to all by keeping God’s commandments. John 15:10. 

    Therefore, the disciples of Christ, who abide in His love, bear the fruits of righteousness as outlined in God’s moral Law. 

    Thus they glorify God and pass the test of true discipleship.

    In conclusion on the law at the death of Jesus

    God is the ultimate Governor in Heaven and on earth today. He reigns with His unconditional love, exemplified in the Ten Commandments for our world.

    They are a standard of righteousness exalted and honored by Jesus’s life and death on the cross. 

    Therefore, types, sin offerings and sacrifices, had no virtue after His death.

    God hasn’t changed, neither has He changed His moral Law, which is an expression of His loving nature. 

    If that law could be done away with, humans might have been saved without the death of Jesus. 

    But He provides out of His love the Remedy for everyone’s sin. It is by acceptance of Jesus as their Redeemer and King of their lives. 

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    References

    EW 215, 1882 – The Ellen G. White Estate

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    • Do you know that God promised to write His Law on our hearts? (Jeremiah 31:33; Hebrews 8:10.) This will be fulfilled only when we hunger for righteousness.
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  • What Must I Do To Be Saved? God’s Servants Prison Experience

    What Must I Do To Be Saved? God’s Servants Prison Experience

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    The question – What must I do to be saved? – was asked by a prison’s guard on duty. He addressed Paul and Silas with it when in life-fearing circumstances. 

    The story is recorded in the New Testament Book of Acts, chapter 16.

    It is God alone who saved His servants, rescuing them from prison. Having Jesus in the heart, they were filled with love, peace and gratitude. 

    This post explores the situation the jail kipper was at, when he asked to be saved. Additionally, it explains the scriptural answer to this question.

    Table of contents

    1. Showing the way of salvation.
    2. From what did the jail keeper make the inquiry to be saved?
    3. Longing for the salvation of the apostles.
    4. In conclusion of the way of salvation.

    Showing the way of salvation

    When still in Philippi, Paul and Silas were followed by women with a spirit of divination. She brought her masters much gain by soothsaying. Acts 16:16. 

    Nevertheless, she was telling the truth about them.

    These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation. Acts 16:17.

    But, by her influence, she was strengthening idolatry. Additionally, she was distracting the minds of the people from the teachings of the apostles. 

    As influenced by Satan, she has used his methods of mixing truth with errors.

    This has been Satan’s way of deceiving people since the creation. 

    Paul cast out of her the demon, saying to the evil spirit:

    I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour. Acts 16:18.

    By doing this, he got himself and Silas into trouble. 

    And when her masters saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they caught Paul and Silas.

    And drew them into the marketplace unto the magistrates and said:

    They teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, nor to observe, being Romans. 

    And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison.

    The jailer, having received a charge to keep them, made their feet fast in the stocks. Acts 16:19-24. 


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    From what did the jail keeper make the inquiry to be saved?

    And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God, and the prisoners heard them. Acts 16:25. 

    Prisoners marveled and asked themselves who these men could be. Though cold, hungry, and tortured, they could yet rejoice.

    The jail keeper had seen their swollen and bleeding wounds when they were led in. Additionally, he had caused their feet to be fastened in the stocks. 

    So, he had expected to hear bitter groans and curses. But, he instead heard songs of joy and praise.

    With these sounds in his ears he had fallen into a sleep. He was awakened suddenly by the earthquake and the shaking of the prison’s walls.

    Terrified by death for failing duty

    The jailer saw that all the prison doors were open. The fear that the prisoners had escaped flashed upon him.

    He remembered the explicit charge that Paul and Silas had been entrusted to his care. 

    He saw the death as the penalty of his apparent failure to act according to his duties and responsibilities. 

    He felt it was better for him to die by his own hand. He would not submit to a disgraceful execution. 

    He was about to kill himself, but Paul cried with a loud voice, saying:

    Do thyself no harm, for we are all here. Acts 16:28.

    Everyone was in his place. They were restrained by the power of God exerted through one fellow prisoner.

    Right after hearing the voice of Paul, his way of thinking changed. He began to connect the dots.

    Thus he realized that it was a supernatural intervention in the events of:

    • The great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken.
    • Immediately all the doors were opened, and every one’s bands were loosened. 
    • All prisoners were in their individually designated places.
    • No one took advantage of their liberation and attacked him in revenge.

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    The ultimate salvation from death caused by sin

    The jailer dropped his sword.

    Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas. Acts 16:29.

    This was the way he asked for their forgiveness. 

    Not so long ago, he was ready to take his own life. He believed that the prisoners had escaped. 

    But now this seemed of little consequence compared with the new fear that came to his mind. He thought that God manifested His wrath in the earthquake.

    Additionally, he knew that God had saved their lives in a miraculous way. 

    And he wanted to have the same peace and cheerfulness shown by the apostles under suffering and abuse.

    Furthermore, they didn’t retaliate to the severity with which the jailer had treated them. They had the Spirit of Jesus. 

    Their conduct demonstrated that they have the :

    • Peace, which only Christ can give.

    My peace I give unto you: not as the world gives, I give it unto you. Let not your heart be

    troubled, neither let it be afraid. John 14:27.

    • Assurance of the ultimate salvation from the eternal death. This death is brought to each and everyone of us in this world by sin. Additionally, receiving the gift of eternal life through God’s beloved Son.

    For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son,

    that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16.  

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    Longing for the salvation of the apostles

    Apostles’ hearts were filled with the love of their Savior. They had no room for animosity against their persecutors.

    The keeper of the prison brought them out.

    The words of the spirit-possessed woman came forcefully to his mind:

    These men are the servants of the most high God, which show unto us the way of salvation. 

    And He said: Sirs, what must I do to be saved? Acts 16:30.

    With humility, he asked the apostles to show him the way of salvation. It is also the way of eternal life.

    They answered:  Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.

    And they spoke unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house.

    He took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes;

    and was baptized, he and all his, straightway. Acts 16:31:33. 

    The apostles met opposition and persecution in Philippi. But God intervened on their behalf.  

    Additionally, the conversion of the prison guard and his household, atoned for the disgrace and suffering they had endured. 

    The news of their unjust imprisonment and miraculous deliverance became known through all that region.

    Paul’s work at Philippi resulted in the establishment of a church. His willingness to suffer for Christ’s sake, exerted a deep and lasting influence upon the converts.

    In conclusion of the way of salvation

    So, the answer to the question – What must one do to be saved? – Is: Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved. Acts 16:31. 

    It was given by the servants of God – Paul and Silas to their prison guard. 

    God delivered them and saved their lives in a miraculous way. At the same time, the jail kipper went through a fearful experience.

    This led him to see in contrast the love, peace and gratitude. The apostles received them from the loving God they served. 

    So, the jailer’s question revealed his desire to have this life. He wanted to be saved from his deadly fears in this life and for eternity.

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  • God’s Kingdoms of Grace and Glory: The Present Time Help and Future Hope

    God’s Kingdoms of Grace and Glory: The Present Time Help and Future Hope

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    The “Kingdom of Grace” and the “Kingdom of Glory” are promised, realized and hoped for in Christ.

    God’s kingdom of grace has been established at Christ’s first advent to the world and His death on the cross.

    The confirmation of His kingdom of glory will not take place until His second coming.

    The expression “kingdom of God”, as used in the Bible designates two kingdoms.

    It refers to the kingdom of grace and also to the kingdom of glory.

    This post explains the spiritual nature of those kingdoms.

    Additionally, it gives more relevant information for the time we live and the near future prophecies.  

    Table of contents

    1. The time is fulfilled and the kingdom of God is at hand
    2. All nations of the earth will hear the gospel of His grace
    3. The throne of glory represent the kingdom of glory
    4. Current grace and future hope in the kingdom of God
    5. In conclusion on kingdoms of grace and glory

    The time is fulfilled and the kingdom of God is at hand

    With this message Jesus began His ministry. In the New Testament Book of Mark we read:

    Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God;

    And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel. Mark 1:14, 15.

    And the kingdom of God was established by the death of Christ. This kingdom was not, as the disciples had been taught to believe – an earthly empire.

    Additionally, it wasn’t that future, everlasting kingdom, in which all dominions shall serve and obey Him. Daniel 7:27.


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    The kingdom of God begins in the heart

    The kingdom of God comes not with observation; Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there!

    For, behold, the kingdom of God is within you. Luke 17:20, 21.

    So, one needs to be born again to understand the character of the Heavenly Kingdom, or discern its spiritual nature.

    In the New Testament Book of John, Jesus said:

    Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he can not see the kingdom of God. John 3:3.

    In other words, there’s a need for an inward transformation – the need of a new heart. 

    Ezekiel chapter 36 verse 26.
    Ezekiel 36:26

    It is God’s will to purify the sin-defiled soul and implant in the heart His own righteousness.

    So, this is the kingdom of God within you:

    The mystery is made manifest: Christ in you, the hope of glory. Colossians 1:26, 27.

    Day by day hearts full of sin and rebellion yield to the sovereignty of God’s love.

    All nations of the earth will hear the gospel of His grace

    Not all will accept His grace by their choice. 

    In Psalm 22 we read: 

    A seed shall serve him; it shall be accounted to the Lord for a generation.

    They shall come, and shall declare his righteousness unto a people that shall be born, that he hath done this. Psalm 22:30, 31

    Additionally, the prophet Daniel said:

    The kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven,

    shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High; Daniel 7:27.

    Furthermore, in the New Testament Book of Hebrews, the apostle Paul said:

    For we have not a high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; 

    but was in all points tempted like we are, yet without sin.

    Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, 

    and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:15, 16.

    The throne of grace signifies the Kingdom of grace. Christ also used the expression the “kingdom of Heaven”. 

    Thus He spoke about the work of Divine grace upon the hearts of people.

    The time we live now fulfills the prophecies of Isaiah: 

    The earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea. Isaiah 11:9.


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    Kingdom of Grace Summary.

    The “Kingdom of Grace” summary

    • Christ’s first advent message is the announcement of the kingdom of His grace.
    • It was for the purpose and by the promise of God. Yet it was not actually established until the death of Christ.
    • Jesus Christ is central to the kingdom of grace. Salvation by grace is made available to those who believe in His name.
    • It refers to God’s love and grace to humanity in the plan of their redemption. The Bible outlines that from the fall to the current age, until Christ’s second coming.
    • It’s a spiritual kingdom, not a political or earthly one. 
    • The mystery of God’s grace is made manifest: Christ in you, the hope of glory. Colossians 1:26, 27. This is the process of one’s character transformation through Christ grace.
    • The kingdom of grace came to power instantly after the fall of our first parents.

    The throne of glory represents the kingdom of glory

    Referring to this kingdom Jesus said:

    When the Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory; 

    and before him shall be gathered all nations. Matthew 25:31, 32

    This kingdom is yet in the future. It is not to be set up until the second advent of Christ.

    So, the message of His second advent announces the kingdom of His glory. And the second message, like the first, is based on the prophecies. 

    Jesus has given signs of His coming. He said:

    When ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand.

    And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, 

    and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day comes upon you unawares.

    Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass,

     and to stand before the Son of man. Luke 21:31, 34, 36.

    Receiving of His kingdom

    Christ receives it from the Ancient of Days in Heaven. In the Old Testament Book of Daniel we read:

    I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven,

    and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought Him near before Him.

    And there was given Him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve Him; 

    His dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and His kingdom that which shall not be destroyed. Daniel 7:13, 14.

    Moreover, He will receive the New Jerusalem, the capital of His kingdom:

    prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. Revelation 21:2.

    He received the kingdom. Next He will come in His glory, as King of kings and Lord of lords, for the redemption of His people.

    1 Thessalonians chapter 2 verse 12.
    1 Thessalonians 2:12

    In the New Testament Book Of John, the apostle said:

    The kingdoms of this world become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ;

    and he shall reign for ever and ever. Revelation 11:15.

     And He hath on His vesture and on his thigh a name written, King Of Kings, And Lord Of Lords. Revelation 19:16.


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    Kingdom of Glory Summary.

    The kingdom of glory summary

    • It is centered and begins at the second coming of Jesus Christ as King of king and Lord of lords.
    • One’s election for the glorious eternal life is one’s choice to live with the Father and the Son. 
    • It has been devised by God and His purpose before the creation of this world. But, it will be  realized in the future, appointed by Him.
    • Creation is restored to its original state of perfection. It is free from sin and righteousness is the scepter of this kingdom.
    • This includes physical restoration of the Earth and people’s righteous Christ-like Divine nature. 
    • It is all new, for the former things have passed away.

    Current grace and future hope in the kingdom of God

    The grace of God must be received by the sinner before one can be fitted for the kingdom of glory.

    The gifts of His grace through Christ are free to all. There is no election, but one’s own.

    In this world we are to develop a pure Christ-like character by His grace. It will make us successful candidates for an eternal home in the kingdom of glory.

    For example, Jesus said:

    • Not everyone that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven;
    • but he that does the will of My Father which is in heaven. Matthew 7:21.
    • Blessed are they that do His commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life,
    • and may enter in through the gates into the city. Revelation 22:14.
    • Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart:
    • and ye shall find rest unto your souls. Matthew 11:29.

    Then we’ll be overcoming sin and becoming fit for the indwelling of the Spirit of God. Additionally, we’ll be:

    • Heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ.
    • Having the same life as Jesus, partaking of His Divine nature.

    So, examine thoroughly His invitation: 

    Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. Matthew 25:34.


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    In conclusion on kingdoms of grace and glory

    The “Kingdom of Grace” is offered by God to humanity on acceptance of His Son.

    The “Kingdom of Glory” is promised and will come to power after the second coming of Christ.

    Their spiritual meaning and blessings they carry are given to humanity:

    For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son,

    that whosoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16.

    Thus what grace has begun, glory will crown in the kingdom of our God.

    But unto the Son He saith, Thy throne, O God, is forever and ever:

    a scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Thy Kingdom. Hebrews 1:8.

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    References

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  • Restoring God’s Image: Character Transformation Through Christ

    Restoring God’s Image: Character Transformation Through Christ

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    Humans were holy and happy in bearing the image of God until the fall. Thereafter the work of Satan shaped their image after his likeness.

    Nothing but Divine power can regenerate the human heart and character.

    The Son of God came to restore in them the character (image) of their Maker.

    He imparts His love to the soul, which manifests in unselfish love to those for whom He died.

    Table of contents

    In the image of God at the beginning of creation

    In the beginning God said: 

    Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. So God created man in His own image, in the image of God created him;

    male and female He created them. Genesis 1:26, 27. 

    This is the truth the Bible establishes about human character – the reflection of God’s attributes.

    Adam and Eve were endowed with the inherent qualities that make them distinct from the rest of all creation.

    Thus they mirrored God’s spiritual nature.

    Their moral and relational capacity was given to them from day one. Here is the crucial point to understand. 

    Before the fall they knew only God’s goodness and what is right. They learned this through their relationship with God Himself and the angels. 

    At this point of time evil on earth didn’t exist yet, though it was there in the universe. The first couple didn’t know what evil is all about. 

    God gave them special instructions to protect them. For example:

    But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it. Genesis 2:17. 

    This was also a test, which they failed. Thus they distrust God by believing Satan’s deceptions. 

    So, only after the fall they can know good and evil. Since then, God is constantly working in every human being to elevate the ability to:

    • Think, reason, and discern between good and evil, right and wrong.
    • Make moral choices for good.

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    The Father and Son relationship described through imagery

    In the Son is gathered all the glory of the Father, the fullness of the Godhead. For example:

    Who is the brightness of His (God) glory, and the express image of His person,

    and upholding all things by the word of His power; Hebrews 1:3. 

    For in him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily, who is the head of all principality and power. Colossians 2:9, 10. 

    The glory of the attributes of God is expressed in His character. He was the image of the Father.

    Jesus says His mission to represent the Father’s character (glory) was successful.

    It is recorded in the New Testament Book of John.

    For instance He said:

    I have glorified Thee on the earth. I have finished the work which Thou gave me to do. 

    I have manifested thy name (character) unto the men which thou given me out of the world

    And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it:

    that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them. John 17:4, 6, 26.

    Christ came to our world and gave us a living example of a righteous character to imitate. Every page of the Bible shines with His light.

    He is our example in all things. Thus we know how to live and how to keep the way of the Lord.


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    Character transformation and restoration of God’s image through Christ

    Sin ruined the Divine image in humans from the time of creation. But through Christ this may be restored.  

    Bringing back the moral image of God in humanity was the purpose of His life and character development.

    He exemplified the righteousness of God in His human life. Moreover, He attained perfection, conforming to the requirements of the holy Law of God.  

    This was accepted by the Father and expressed in His testimony. For example we read in the New Testament Book Of Matthew:

    While he yet spoke, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them. And behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, 

    This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye Him. Matthew 17:5. 

    As Emmanuel – God with us – He became part of the human family.

    By believing and doing the Word of God, He was severing Himself from Satan’s snares.

    Thus He had restored the Image of God in humanity. His righteousness is the provision God has made for people’s salvation.

    Jesus withstand his most severe temptations in the wilderness with It is written. For example:

    And when the tempter (devil) came to him, he said:

    If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.

    But he answered and said, It is written:

    Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God. Matthew 4:3, 4.

    So, By the righteousness of One the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. Romans 5:18.

    Choose restoration now through the righteousness of Jesus.



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    Reflecting God’s character in Christian life and conduct

    Jesus’ spotless character is before us as an example to imitate. Be mindful that the devil is constantly working to lead people away from that.

    For instance:

    The god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not,

    lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. 2 Corinthians 4:4. 

    On the other hand, Christian growth and character transformation is what God desires to see in His children.

    In particular, the Bible tells us that in the following passages:

    God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth;

    Where-unto He called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory (character) of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Thessalonians 2:13, 14.

    To them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;

    According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness,

    through the knowledge of Him that hath called us to glory and virtue; 2 Peter 1:1, 3.

    And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind,

    that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Romans 12:2.

    Therefore, we must study, copy and follow Jesus. Thus we’ll bring His loveliness and beauty into our character. This is explain in 2 Corinthians 3:18.

    But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord,

    are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.

    Conclusion on restoring and transformation

    The sin, which Satan established in our world, changed the image of God in humans.

    But Jesus brought to the world definite assurance of hope through His righteous character.

    He reshapes our characters after the pattern of His Divine and glorious character.  

    The Bible enjoins Christians to reflect God’s character in their words and actions. Moreover, to be conformed to the image of Jesus Christ.

    Who is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption. 1 Corinthians 1:30.

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    DA 341 – The Ellen G. White Estate

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    • What resonated with you most in this post, and why?
    • What did Jesus use to develop a godly righteous character?
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  • Condemning Sin, Not People: Deliverance From The Law Of Sin And Death

    Condemning Sin, Not People: Deliverance From The Law Of Sin And Death

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    In His human nature, Jesus condemned sin by His sinless life and unjust death.

    God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world. But that the world through Him might be saved. John 3:17. 

    For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. Romans 8:2.

    Table of contents

    1. There is no condemnation to them who are in Jesus.
    2. Christ condemns sin, but not sinner.
    3. Condemning the innocent to die the cruellest death
    4. Conclusion on condemnation of sin

    There is no condemnation to them who are in Jesus

    What does it mean? 

    Certainly it doesn’t mean that the Law of God ceased to exist. His Law is infinite and immutable as God Himself.

    Its moral claims are still binding. 

    I feel the same way as the apostle Paul explained in Romans chapters 7 and 8. 

    I delight in the Law of God, which becomes the law of my mind. But I see another law in me opposing it.

    That is the law of sin which is in my nature. I was born with it. 

    I was shaped in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me. Psalm 51:5. Moreover, I grew up and lived this way.

    The Law of God reveals it, exposing my sins.

    So, the question I ask is the same he asked:

    O wretched man that I am! Who shall deliver me from the body of this death? Romans 7:24.

    This is my miserable condition. It is the law of sin in me that leads me to death.

    For more – read The “Second Death” in the Stream of Time: Biblical Insights

    Therefore, I thank God for providing Jesus as the way of escape. 

    By His grace, when abiding in Him and guided by His Spirit, I am made free from the law of sin and death.

    For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. Romans 8:2.


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    Christ rebukes sin, but not sinner

    Satan knows God’s commandments of love better than any human being. He is the first who rebelled against God in Heaven. 

    Thereafter, he calls for punishment of the law breakers. He points to me as a sinner and the transgressor of the law. 

    Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law. For sin is the transgression of the law. 1 John 3:4. 

    I can’t bring anything on my own to answer the claims of the Law of God,which is holy, just and good. Romans 7:12.

    But, I am not crushed by the guilt after I got the knowledge of the commandments. 

    On my turn I point to Jesus, who is my Savior. I am justified by His blood and will be sanctified by His Divine grace.  

    I depend on Christ for my salvation. He was manifested to take away our sins. And in Him is no sin. 1 John 3:5. 

    He is not condemning nor punishing me, but saves me. I have my freedom in Him from the bondage of sin. 

    Moreover, I also know it is not a licence to lawlessness. Jesus said: 

    Think not that I came to destroy the law, or the prophets; I came not to destroy, but to fulfil.

    For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Matthew 5:17, 18. 

    Furthermore, he that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. 

    For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil. 1 John 3:8.

    To summarize it, Jesus did:

    • Exalt the Law of God by His righteous life and death on the cross. 
    • Destroy the deceptions and snares of Satan, and his law of sin which leads to death. 

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    Condemning the innocent to die the cruellest death

    On the way to Jerusalem, Christ said to His disciples:

    Behold, we go up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man shall be betrayed unto the chief priests and unto the scribes;

    and they shall condemn him to death; 

    And shall deliver him to the Gentiles to mock, and to scourge, and to crucify him. Matthew 20:18, 19. 

    They knew that He:

    • Was doing greater works than they ever had done, or ever could perform.  
    • If he continued his teachings, he would become higher in authority than them.
    • Might become king of the Jews.

    Therefore, the chief priests, and elders, and all the council, sought false witness against Jesus, to put him to death. Matthew 26:59.

    Jesus knew the condition of their heart and told them earlier:

    But if ye had known what this meaneth, I would have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless. Matthew 12:7.

    They would not accept him as their king.

    When Pilate said unto them, Why, what evil hath he done? And they cried out more exceedingly: Crucify him. Mark 15:14.

    Thus by taking the life of the Son of God, they were bringing about the very thing they wanted to prevent.

    The crucifixion of Jesus made Him the Redeemer of humanity, their Saviour and ruler over the whole world.



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    Conclusion on condemnation of sin

    God sent His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh.

    In His humanity and as living in this world’s sinful environment, He condemned sin, but not sinners. 

    And in Him is no sin. 1 John 3:5. 

    He provided a way for people to be free from the law of sin, which leads to death.

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    Where to go from here

    Stay in the know of God’s love for you

    References:

    Chapter 14, 1SP 1870 – The Ellen G. White Estate

    Related resources to help you grow

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    Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments section.

    • What resonated with you most in this post, and why?
    • Are you convinced that Christ came to destroy the work of the devil and not the Law of God and the prophets?
    • How do you understand the law of the Spirit of life in Jesus, as mentioned in the Bible? Share more about it.
    • Reach out if you need more information on this topic.

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