Faith and Works are Years Apart

Scripture: And I say this: The law, which came 430 years later, does not revoke a covenant that was previously ratified by God and cancel the promise. Galatians 3:17

Observation: In the ongoing "faith vs. works" conversation from Paul, he makes an illuminating observation. God made a promise to Abraham - that by him all nations would receive salvation and be redeemed unto God through the progression of his bloodline to provide the Messiah. However, the Law was introduced 430 years later as a means to protect, correct, and guide that bloodline nation. That does not make compliance with the Law part of the promise. In fact, it separates the promise from the Law by both time and purpose.

Application: God's promise is not about any rules. It isn't even really about moral righteousness. God's promise is about faith ... the type of faith that was credited to Abraham as righteousness. Now, Jesus made it clear that believing in him also meant you wished to do as he taught, and he taught us to avoid sin as evidenced by the Law. However, the root of our faith is the promise of salvation, not compliance with the Law.

Today, we have so many issues around us, and it is easy to think that church shootings or public incivility is about some kind of moral compliance. However, complying with a code of conduct, or even the ten commandments, won't solve the problem. Only acceptance of Jesus by faith can heal us. This is the only issue upon which to rely, teach, and hope.

Prayer: Lord, your family is hurting today. Yes, we have faith, but the earthly pain is great for those affected by these latest acts. Please be ever present in the lives of the families of the victims, and in your church communities in Texas and everywhere. Help us stay focused on your one promise, which is salvation through Jesus. Amen.