The Wrong Way to be Right (Romans 9:30-33)
Sermon Outline
“It is precisely because they [Israel] desired to achieve their own righteousness that they failed to believe in Christ, for believing in Christ gives all glory to God, while observing the law means that glory and praise accrue to human beings.” (Thomas Schreiner)
If being right with God is by God’s sovereign mercy, then don’t we have any responsibility? (Rom 9:30-31)
Why do the religious privileged fail at being right with God? (Rom 9:32-33)
(A note on verse 33 c.f. Isaiah 8:14 and 28:16)
Reflection Questions
Am I trying to prove myself worthy before God by what I do?
Trying to be right with God through my effort will lead to pride. Do I struggle with judging and condemning others around us as not being Christian enough? Trying to be right with God through my effort will also inevitably lead to self-condemnation. Do I feel that I never measure up?
Whoever trusts in Jesus Christ will not be put to shame. How does knowing this encourage my heart?