Romans 8 "Life of Peace"

Romans 8 – Brandon Hatmaker “Life of Peace”
Friday, May 30th, 2008

“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death.” – Romans 8:1-2

Do we believe this? Really? Then why is it so hard for us to live it (Freedom and Joy)? Why is it that we feel that we can never do enough (Peace)? Why do we still have the idea that God is sitting up on a cloud often mad at us and waiting for the right moment to throw a thunderbolt at us (Guilt)?

I’m pretty convinced it’s because we are human. It’s our human side that holds on and still feels guilty before God. I’ve even felt guilty about my guilt. It’s our flesh that wants to listen to others statements of judgment and take them on as our own. It’s not coming from God. This is why we are called to deny ourselves daily. We are forgiven in Christ. If we’ve confessed our sins, yet we struggle with these things, then we need to grow in our understanding of Grace. Jesus offers us Salvation as a gift and the peace that comes with it.

Take that in for a moment. What a relief.

When we believe it, then we can really surrender to what God is doing. Then we can let go of our pride and be okay with the sovereignty of God in our world. Then we can search out His truth and have a desire to truly seek Him and thus find Him. Then we will be thankful. Then we will want to worship. Then we will begin to measure success as God measures success. Then we will not only know how to depend on God, but we will want to.

Here’s a great quote I read recently: “A sanctified soul is a living soul; and that life is peace.”

Father, thank you for your Grace in Christ. Thank you for calling us your children. May we find peace in that reality. Amen.

Romans 7 "9/10 of the Law"

Romans 7 – Brandon Hatmaker “9/10 of the Law”
Thursday, May 29th, 2008

“So, my brothers, you also died to the law through the body of Christ, that you might belong to another, to him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit to God.” – Romans 7:4

What a Word for each of us. I’ve heard it said, that “possession is 9/10ths of the law”. I’ve never really known what that means. So I did some research. Here’s what I found:

In a 1999 article in Proverbium: Yearbook of International Proverb Scholarship, Nancy Magnuson Geise traces the phrase to a "play of uncertain authorship" called The Raigne of King Edward the Third, dating from 1596. Edward III of England is challenging the throne of King John of France. Phillip, one of John's sons, says, "I say, my Lord, claim Edward what he can, And bring he ne'er so plain a pedigree, Tis you are in the possession of the Crown, And that's the surest point of all the Law."

Geise finds the next variant, "[possession is] eleven points of the law," in A Dictionary of the Proverbs in England in the Sixteenth and Seventeenth Centuries: A Collection of the Proverbs Found in English Literature and the Dictionaries of the Period by Morris Tilley, who credits William Camden circa 1623. "The Devil hath Eleven points of the law against you; that is, possession." This is the first confirmed example that associates "11 points of the law" with possession.

Meanwhile, in 1616, Thomas Draxe, in his book of proverbs, Bibliotheca Scholastica Instructissima, shaves a couple points off the total: "Possession is nine points in the law." After this instance and maybe one other, this variant of the proverb was dormant until 1809. 

A problem with early versions of the proverb was that nobody was really sure what the ten or twelve points of the law were. Some proposed lists of points, failing to grasp that the proverb was almost certainly meant ironically – if possession is nine points, the points are 1. possession; 2. possession; 3. possession … you get the picture.

So the most interesting question: what's the point that isn't possession? Nobody could satisfactorily answer that. No doubt it was confusion over the "points" that led to the modern version. As Geise puts it, "The jump … to the latest, and today by far the most prevalent form, “possession is nine-tenths of the law”, is logical. Unable to have a clear idea of what the legal points are that the original proverb could refer to, the proverb took on a more familiar form as a fraction: the implication of 'points' became superfluous."

Let’s read verse four again, “So, my brothers, you also died to the law through the body of Christ, that you might belong to another, to him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit to God.”

What I read today is that we died to the law that we might belong to Christ. We are in possession of the King. What is the point that is not possession? Shall we argue? Nope, The final point is superfluous. The points that matter are (1) Possession, (2) Possession, (3) Possession, etc…

So as Phillip said in “The Raigne of King Edward the Third”, "I say, my Lord, claim Edward what he can, And bring he ne'er so plain a pedigree, Tis you are in the possession of the Crown, And that's the surest point of all the Law."

So what’s the point? The fact that there is no point worth regaining or attaining personal possession, Christ purchased it all. He is the ultimate Crown. And for what? That we might bear fruit. To whom? To God.

Father, may all that we have, all that we are, and all that we strive for simply be yours. Amen.

Romans 6 "The Summary"

Romans 6 – Brandon Hatmaker “The Summary”
Wednesday, May 28th, 2008

“Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God.” – Romans 6:8-10

This sums it all up. While God’s ways are amazingly above and beyond our ways. When it comes to the application of His Word to our lives, you can’t make it any more simple than this. So much so that it even makes sense. “If” we died with Christ, we will live with him. In the same way Jesus died to sin and the life he lives, he lives to God.

We once offered our body to sin, it was easy and natural, Paul, urges us to offer ourselves to God, in the same way. It’s more natural than we think even in method, we know how to offer ourselves it’s of the will that we struggle. He reminds us of our nature in verse 19, “I put this in human terms because you are weak in your natural selves.”

We claim ignorance as believers a lot. Funny thing is how appropriate that plea truly is. We are pretty ignorant. However, if we were to capture that moment and think about it, we’d realize that we know more than we think we know:

Every situation, every scenario, and every decision in life… what do we do?
“In the same way Jesus died to sin and the life he lives, he lives to God.”

As we’re choosing our career paths and our priorities in life…
“In the same way Jesus died to sin and the life he lives, he lives to God.”

As we think about how we spend our time or how we treat one another…
“In the same way Jesus died to sin and the life he lives, he lives to God.”

Father, teach me to submit my will to yours. In moments of pride when I feel I’m already doing it, please show me each facet in which I am not. Teach me to surrender not only the physical but also the emotional and mental that I might follow you with all my heart, with all of my mind, and with all my strength. Amen

Romans 5 "Doing Love"

Romans 5 – Brandon Hatmaker “Doing Love”
Tuesday, May 27th, 2008

“You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:6-8

In all seriousness, how fine is this? This is truly amazing love. It’s the only explanation. Earlier in the chapter, Paul reminds us that we are justified through our faith so that we now have peace with God, through Christ.

The word used for peace in verse one, comes from a primary verb meaning “to join” and literally translates to mean to “set at one again”. What an amazing reality. First, for us to remember that we were separated from God. Completely and entirely separated from God. Yet because of his LOVE, He gave the greatest sacrifice, His only son that we might be at one again with Him.

“Love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.”- John 15:12-13

All faiths are not alike. All Churches are not alike either. What you believe about Jesus makes all the difference in the world. It’s THE difference. But let’s not leave it at that, what we do with LOVE then, makes all the difference in the world. It’s THE difference. Love is a huge deal to God. We most resemble Him when we offer love. You can’t just put on love and fake it. You can however act in love when you don’t feel it. But we must never neglect it.

So let’s take a moment to think about the following verses. Not to just think about what we believe or know about them. But instead, what we do about them. How we act. How we treat one another. How we use our influence. How we lead others. How we humble ourselves. How we see others. How we respond to God.

“Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.” – John 4:7-9

“If anyone says, "I love God," yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen.” – 1 John 4:20

“If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.” – 1 Corinthians 13:1-3

And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” – 1 Corinthians 13:13

Romans 4 "I'm not okay"

Romans 4 – Brandon Hatmaker “I’m not okay”
Monday, May 26th, 2008

“It was not through law that Abraham and his offspring received the promise that he would be heir of the world, but through the righteousness that comes by faith. For if those who live by law are heirs, faith has no value and the promise is worthless, because law brings wrath. And where there is no law there is no transgression.” – Romans 4:13-15

In many forms, in many ways, and many times, Paul states and restates this truth: "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness. Even Abraham’s faith was credited as righteousness and He was under the law! Wow. How much more are we under the blood of Christ?

And yet, here are some realities, many believers still struggle with their salvation. Many believers still think their works have something to do with their salvation. I also would say that most believers who do trust in the free gift of life through Christ, still struggle with trying to “deserve” their faith instead of just living in his Grace.

We are a weird people. I truly believe that one of the most important things we can do is to just admit our “weirdness”. I guess that has something to do with remembering our humanity. I’m not okay. I mess things up. You’re not okay. So do you. Just as much as we need Christ unto salvation and redemption, we need him in life.

Okay, Carrie Underwood, there’s your cue, “Jesus take the wheel…” Geeze. Sorry about that. I’ll be sure to reference Willie or Waylon in my next post.

Romans 3 "God's not Dumb"

Romans 3 – Brandon Hatmaker “God’s Not Dumb”
Friday, May 23, 2008

Let's see... Romans....
“Depravity of man”: chapter one, check.
“God’s righteous judgment”: chapter two, check.
“God’s faithfulness”, let’s see chapter three…
-Propitiation, vs. 25, check.
-Atonement, vs. 25, check.
-Justification, vs. 24 & 26, check
-Redemption, vs. 24, check
So... “God’s faithfulness” chapter three, check.

Charles Hodge wrote back in the 1800’s of Romans 3 that, “All true doctrine tends to humble men, and to exalt God; and all true religion is characterized by humility and reverence.” Wow, what an offering and reality.

I’m a “freedom in Christ” guy. But with all this doctrine, I think it’s a good reminder that Paul spends so much time in this part of the letter reminding his readers that this gift of doctrine is not a license to live “wheels off”. Paul knows the culture of whom he is writing to. He knows their baseline cultural narrative. He knows their selfish nature and that they may instantly (probably naturally) see this as an opportunity to live in the flesh.

He reminds them essentially by saying, “Hey guys, God’s not dumb. He sees us, He knows us, don’t fool yourselves. Even you know your logic is not logical.” Just check out what he says in verse 7 and 8, “Someone might argue, "If my falsehood enhances God's truthfulness and so increases his glory, why am I still condemned as a sinner?" Why not say—as we are being slanderously reported as saying and as some claim that we say—"Let us do evil that good may result"? Their condemnation is deserved.”

Our temptations are similar. We too easily exchange breaking away from what we’ve considered tradition to “wheels off” theology and lifestyles. We can pretty much justify anything in our own minds… and probably find a scripture or two that seems to support it. This is nothing new. We should learn from history. We are a people of extremes. We need to understand our nature as well. That’s probably why Paul reminds us so often of our depravity (pretty much in each chapter of Romans).

In the same way that I can understand their “Wheels off” temptation, but on the flip side, I kind of liken being a person who grew up in the church to being a first century Jew in resisting change. Obviously, the difference is Christ (which is all the difference in the world) but I feel like some of the same things they struggled with and kept them from moving forward in faith are most naturally foundation in some our struggles in the church today. I’m convinced it’s a generational trend that will continue, but it’s so hard to break a tradition that has always been taught as truth. It’s so hard not to think since I grew up singing songs a certain way that that is not the only way it should be. It’s so difficult to read and interpret scripture in a different way than Rev. (fill in the blank) did it so many years. It’s the same with us, as it was for our parents, as it was for their parents. Our nurture shapes so much. But it doesn’t change “Truth”. I need to be reminded often to not read scripture to “defend” the way I live faith and do church and instead read it to “define” the way I live faith and do church.

So I ask myself this question: Are the traditions and methodologies of old themselves bad just because they’ve become rote to a generation? While all traditions are insufficient without Christ (remember, even the law itself was created to expose sin, not cure it), I’m convinced that most are not bad in themselves, just incomplete. It’s what we make of them as believers. If they are void of Christ or seek to take the place of his atonement, then they are off base. It’s the old “Religion” verses “Relationship” argument. Paul knew this would come. That’s why He told the Church at Corinth to make sure they don’t take communion in an irreverent way without acknowledging the cross or examining themselves. It’s the same lesson for us today.

I go there today because of how this section of Paul’s letter starts…

“What advantage, then, is there in being a Jew, or what value is there in circumcision? Much in every way! First of all, they have been entrusted with the very words of God.” Romans 3:1-2

… and how he finishes…

“Do we, then, nullify the law by this faith? Not at all! Rather, we uphold the law.” Romans 3:31

We certainly have to determine which of our traditions are a result of “law” verses “man”, but I think this reality should change the way we look at how others choose to worship. I’m not saying don’t analyze doctrine and theology. I am saying not to criticize methodology or even some traditions. We don’t know their hearts. We only know ours. I think this goes both ways. There are those who criticize the traditional church as being ineffective and then there are those who criticize the attractional or seeker church for being compromising (and all the others between these extremes). All along Paul is saying, “Hey, worry about yourself. It’s not about style, it’s about your heart. Whatever you do, make sure you know it’s about Christ and Christ crucified, worship God and don’t make it about you. Even in worship, really good worship, don’t worship your worship. Worship God. Don’t fool yourselves (Check out the plank in your eye) and be distracted or even justify yourself by devaluing others, and simply bring Glory to God. The best you know how.”

Bottom line is to get right with God. The way that happens is through Christ. The way it continues is through a pursuit of Christ. I think Paul sums up that pursuit in his letter to the Corinthian Church, “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (1 Cor. 10:31)

Romans 2 "Christ Alone"

Romans 2 – Brandon Hatmaker “Christ Alone”
Wednesday, May 22, 2008

“You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge the other, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things. Now we know that God's judgment against those who do such things is based on truth. So when you, a mere man, pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God's judgment? Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God's kindness leads you toward repentance?” Romans 2:1-4

Anytime I see the words, “therefore” in scripture, I can’t help but turn the page back and see what it’s in response to. Since it was just yesterday that I read Romans 1, I’m reminded that Paul was talking about those who knew of the righteousness of God but did not acknowledge His precepts. He also brought light to the fact that failing to follow just one placed them under the judgment of them all. Living under this legalism creates a downward spiral.

“For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened.” – Romans 1:21

Paul said that in this moment, we can be given over to many “shameful” lusts, as well as be filled with the things that are opposite of God. Paul is drawing light to our unavoidable condition without Christ. Which eerily resembles even a believer’s life when lived without dependency on Christ. This raises much debate in the Church on who is really saved and who is not (I’m just glad I’m not judge on that). But the point is, even those who know and teach the rules and ritual of faith will not be judged on their “discipline” alone, if we were, we’d all fall short of the law. This is reminding us that we all have dark places, we all have “secrets”. Paul will remind us of this in Romans 3:23 when he says, “…for all have fallen short of the Glory of God”. The point is that whether it’s for the Jew or the Gentile, learned or unlearned, Baptist, Methodist, Catholic, or Non-denominational, our judgment will come through the filter of Christ.

“God will judge men's secrets through Jesus Christ, as my gospel declares.” – Rom. 2:16

Paul is very explicit and spends a lot of time setting up this point. I hope we all see verse 16 as encouragement today, not as a threat or as anything resembling the negative. In these few words, we see the ultimate truth and example of grace, love, sacrifice, and benevolence through Jesus Christ. Thank you God, that my secrets will be judged through Jesus and not according to the law. There truly is Hope!

Romans 1 "Waddaya Know?"

Romans 1 – Brandon Hatmaker “Waddaya Know?”
Wednesday, May 21, 2008

“Although they know God's righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them.” Romans 1:32

This gives us a little insight to our nature. It’s also a major critique to those of us who know the righteousness of God, but who refuse or even neglect it. I’m not writing these things to beat anyone else up… nor do I suggest anyone do it to themselves, it’s just a reality that I have in my life (that I would venture to say others might as well) that while I seek to do the things of God and live by the ways of Jesus, I often fail. I hope they are never out of intentionality. What I need to remember is that a lack of pursuit will create the neglect. None of us are above falling. It’s when we think we are that it most likely is to happen.

For those who are far from God, in a weird way, I hope that gives a little hope. Although at times as believers we act as if we have it all together, we certainly do not. God loves us anyways, yet when we are blind to our own shortfalls or pursuits, surely we will need redirection.

So how do we know when we’re neglecting what we know? Verses 29-31 list just a few indicators, “greed and depravity… full of envy… strife… deceit and malice. They are gossips, slanderers… arrogant and boastful; they are senseless, faithless, heartless, ruthless.”

When I think about how easy it is to become self-focused in life, a few of those hit a little too close to home.

Acts 28 "Unusual Suspects"

Acts 28 – Brandon Hatmaker “Unusual Suspects”
Tuesday, May 20, 2008

Two things stand out to me in Acts 28. The first is found in verse 11 and 12. “After three months we put out to sea in a ship that had wintered in the island. It was an Alexandrian ship with the figurehead of the twin gods Castor and Pollux. We put in at Syracuse and stayed there three days.”

Throughout scripture there is so much symbolism and significance in how things were done as much as what was done. Yet here God used an Alexandrian ship with not just one godhead but twin gods on it. How unusual. I’m reminded that God uses things we cannot even fathom for His glory. He’s always at work in ways we cannot imagine. His path sometimes may seem indirect or even unconventional, but there is always much to be learned on that path. Many times it’s to remind us that it’s not of us, but of Him.

The second thing that stood out to me today in Acts 28 is not only the boldness of his words, but also the indictment of Paul’s words as he reminded them of what Isaiah wrote, “Go to this people and say, You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving. For this people’s heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.”

Many times we are surprised God would want to use us or even speak to us. We may feel like that Alexandrian ship. Out of place. When we feel like God cannot or will not use or even pursue us in fresh new ways, not only are we perceiving God wrong, but in our defensiveness or insecurity we may stop listening and most certainly stop seeking.

The problem is, when we’re off base and resisting God, we don’t always know it. We become calloused without even recognizing our condition. With that in mind, we should be constantly asking God to show us blindspots. We should be begging him to show us where we have closed our eyes. And to do so with a heart to make whatever changes are necessary.

God, open our ears that we might perceive your truth. Show us where we close our eyes. Forgive our arrogance and callousness. Help us to see you clearly. Amen.

Acts 27 "Shipwrecked"

Acts 27 – Brandon Hatmaker “Shipwrecked”
Monday, May 19, 2008

“When it was decided that we would sail for Italy, Paul and some other prisoners were handed over to a centurion named Julius, who belonged to the Imperial Regiment. We boarded a ship from Adramyttium about to sail for ports along the coast of the province of Asia, and we put out to sea.” Acts 27:1-2

Seems like the beginning of just another day in the life of Paul. But this was a significant journey. The city of Rome was the center of the world. The Roman roads went out in all directions to all parts of the Empire. When The Acts ends with Paul in Rome preaching the gospel, it’s significance is that now from the center of that world the gospel is beginning to go out in all directions.

This journey came with it’s own trials. William Willimon wrote that, “When we hear of sudden storms on lake or ocean wreaking havoc on recreational sailors, we are reminded that "even today the sea represents a place of peril, of human vulnerability, the place where would-be sailors are at the mercy of the elements". That rings a bell with me personally. I cannot think of a worse way to lose life than to drown. We’ve all felt it at one time or another, being caught up in a wave on a trip to the coast or even a quick moment of feeling trapped under a capsized tube at the lake, the panic is surprisingly overwhelming. You simply feel vulnerable and out of control.

This was the ultimate test. They hadn’t eaten. They had tried over and over to maneuver the ship into the positions of their choosing to no avail. They had thrown everything overboard to lessen the load. And they had finally lost all hope. Even Paul.

Verse 20 expressed their desperation in one quick statement: “we finally gave up all hope of being saved”.

But it was time to take courage. And God revealed a word to Paul. Paul instantly took lead. He encouraged others by telling them that not even a hair on their head would be lost. This was very deliberate reference to Christ’s teaching in Matthew 10 when Jesus said, “And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows”. At just the right time, he told them to eat to give them strength. And his wisdom in cutting the ropes on the lifeboats to keep the sailors from abandoning ship saved the rest from a guaranteed watery grave. When land appeared the next morning, the skilled men were still aboard to point the ship closer to land. Allowing them to come to a swim-able distance. Others could get to shore on planks caught up in the surf. Whatever means, verse 44 reminds us that God did exactly what He said he would do and “In this way everyone reached land in safety.”

I wonder how many of them found faith through this experience? Surely Paul’s was strengthened. I’m reminded this morning as I read Acts 27 not only of God’s faithfulness and His plan, but also that He knows when we are at our greatest point of need. Scripture tells us that we will not be tested beyond what we can stand up under. When we cave then, we are selling ourselves, and our faith, short. God is there. He is active. He has a plan. And He is trustworthy.

Father, verse 20 shows us that even Paul lost hope. So we know those moments will be before us. Forgive me when I doubt your presence. I ask you to come quickly in those times. Help each one of us, as we seek to find joy in the journey, trust in your hope and your love as we trust in your plan. Help us to be faithful to be encouragers and to lead with wisdom that we might “Save both ourselves and our listeners”. Amen.

Acts 26 "Simple Hope"

Acts 26 – Brandon Hatmaker “Simple Hope”
Friday, May 16, 2008

“And now it is because of my hope in what God has promised our fathers that I am on trial today. This is the promise our twelve tribes are hoping to see fulfilled as they earnestly serve God day and night. O king, it is because of this hope that the Jews are accusing me. Why should any of you consider it incredible that God raises the dead?” – Acts 26:6-8

We all put our hope in something. Some times we place it in success. Some times we place it in other people. Each day we hope for something. With each career move, in each relationship, in each moment we hope for something. And almost every time it seems insufficient or is short lived.

All their lives the teachers of the law studied this hope that the Prophets taught about. It stood before them. And not only did they miss it, they denied it. And now they stand doubting that that hope could even happen. As if the God they believed in was incapable of such a thing.

Hope. That’s what Paul preached. He preached that God does what He said He would do. Do we? Do we teach with the confidence that Christ brings hope to us all? Do we live our lives as if we have hope in the Son of God? Many times we are so consumed with what is yet to come, that we lose hope for today. So many times we get distracted with all the ancillary matters of faith. Some times to the point in which we forget about hope at all. Paul reminds us of the simple truth of Christ, nothing more and nothing less. Why would he? It in itself is completely sufficient.

“I am saying nothing beyond what the prophets and Moses said would happen— that the Christ would suffer and, as the first to rise from the dead, would proclaim light to his own people and to the Gentiles." – Acts 26:22-23

Acts 25 "Justice is Served"

Acts 25 – Brandon Hatmaker “Justice is Served”
Thursday, May 15, 2008

“Paul answered: "I am now standing before Caesar's court, where I ought to be tried. I have not done any wrong to the Jews, as you yourself know very well. If, however, I am guilty of doing anything deserving death, I do not refuse to die. But if the charges brought against me by these Jews are not true, no one has the right to hand me over to them. I appeal to Caesar!" – Acts 25:10-11

Paul was a Roman citizen. And he knew he would be judged as one. This would bring comfort when standing before Roman authorities if above reproach. Paul knew this. But he also was aware of the brutality that awaits anyone who is found guilty in a Roman court.

The leadership of the Roman Empire believed heavily what they believed to be justice. All they had built and were striving to build upon depended on this authority structure. I found it interesting Festes’ desire to not only see justice, but also to act within reason. In verse 27 he said, “For I think it is unreasonable to send on a prisoner without specifying the charges against him."

While we all have our opinion of law systems and government today, regardless of our faith background, most would agree in doing what is just and what is reasonable. In fact, what is just many times is defined by what is reasonable in a society. It all starts with an established point of truth, law, or standard of what is right.

This is a very important concept for us to understand in order to comprehend God’s plan as it relates to us personally in our world and for eternity. Many times as we think about the love and joy of Jesus, we forget to consider the Justice and Righteousness of God. We forget that it is our actions that creates the gap between us and a Holy God. His justice demands a provision in order for us to stand before Him, and His Graciousness provides it through Jesus.

I truly believe that true joy, peace, comfort, and even true humility as a believer comes through thanksgiving. Perspective is everything. Perspective is indeed our reality. We are most thankful when we remember that if Justice was served without Christ, we would not have eternal life. But it’s the gift of God that we do.

“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8

I believe that there are moments that we all fall short because of a lack of faith. I guess one could say that we “don’t believe enough”. That’s an awful indictment that stings to think about because I’m a believer, I have faith in Christ, He is my only hope, and my goodness, I’m a Pastor! But I would argue that the lack of our desire or ability to live out our faith fully has just as much to do with our lack of being thankful as it does a lack of belief. Don’t get me wrong, I know we're thankful and have a desire to be fully committed followers of Christ. But there are moments of each of our lives that show a lack of belief, thanksgiving, or trust. When I find myself in moments of selfishness, I find that it’s in moments that I’m not being thankful. When I choose not to follow the Spirit, I’m not being thankful. When I lose my temper, say something stupid, get lazy, take credit for something God did, I’m simply not being thankful. It's in those moments that I've lost perspective.

Father, today I am thankful. I wonder how long it will last. I fear that in my humanity it will lapse. I’ve prayed before, dear God, for your perspective each day. Thank you for the reminder of your Justice and Grace.

Acts 24 "The Good Life"

Acts 24 – Brandon Hatmaker “The Good Life”
Wednesday, May 14, 2008

“Several days later Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was a Jewess. He sent for Paul and listened to him as he spoke about faith in Christ Jesus. As Paul discoursed on righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said, "That's enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you." –Acts 24:24-25

It’s interesting how the accusations of Paul and his words struck a chord with Felix. As evidenced by the fact he called for Paul to hear more, I would imagine he had pondered the happenings of the day quite a bit. So he called to learn about Jesus. He thought it important enough to bring his wife as well. Then he got his fill and said that’s enough. He even went so far to mention “at his convenience” he’d call to hear more.

So here’s a synopsis:

1) Felix knew deep inside that he needed something more.
2) He felt enough responsibility to drag in a family member.
3) He listened until he felt he heard enough to feel good about himself.
4) He planned on doing it again when he needed another fix.

Honestly, that describes a large part of my early faith-walk. As I think back now, I thought I was in control. I thought I was pleasing God with my efforts (when they came). I actually felt in the moment that I was enjoying life. But as I look back know, I see how incomplete it was. Don’t get me wrong, I have a long way to go (as do most of us), but the reason I bring this up is to point out how naturally and easily we slip into self-serving faith. Taking in just enough to get by.

And here’s the truth: God does not suffer when we live our faith like this. We suffer. It’s a terribly incomplete, frustrating, and confusing journey to live a hand-to-mouth faith. We fall short of experiencing a life full of peace and joy. We fall short of living a life without guilt and condemnation. We fall short of experiencing a life of purpose and significance. And others around us (our spouse, our children, our friends, etc… ) fail to experience through us what could have been.

It’s a good life with Jesus. It truly is.

Acts 23 "In Good Conscience"

Acts 23 – Brandon Hatmaker “In Good Conscience”
Tuesday, May 13, 2008

“Paul looked straight at the Sanhedrin and said, "My brothers, I have fulfilled my duty to God in all good conscience to this day." At this the high priest Ananias ordered those standing near Paul to strike him on the mouth. Then Paul said to him, "God will strike you, you whitewashed wall! You sit there to judge me according to the law, yet you yourself violate the law by commanding that I be struck!" – Acts 23:1-3

I had a weird reaction to the High Priests actions today. I actually could relate with him. That’s not a good thing. But I could. It’s natural to strike out in self-defense when we feel threatened. It’s even a natural response to have an exaggerated feeling of self-justification as well as heightened level of accusation on those giving threat. But it doesn’t make it right. It doesn’t make us right as accusers.

Paul stood confidently saying that he had fulfilled his “duty to God in all good conscience”. Yet he was accused. He once again reminded them that he was one of them (vs.6). I think this is not only a redundant theme, but also an important one. He was one of them. He cared passionately about what was important to God. Although he knew his message would cause trouble, it wasn’t his hope, he was just trying to share the Good News.

Think about it for a moment. What if just one of them would have thought, “What if God really is in this?” God certainly has a pattern of doing things in ways that are higher and at least different than ours. What if? I think lives would have been changed (at least theirs). And opportunity would not be lost.

There are a handful of things that I am convicted about in this scripture. First, I need to put greater thought into my accusations. Then, no matter where I land (hopefully and prayerfully), to put greater thought into my reactions. In the following verses (vs.4-5), Paul was rebuked for speaking out against the leader of the nation, which was against the law. Paul quickly acknowledged that he had broken that law and confessed that he hadn’t even taken the time to figure out whom he was talking to. Even though he was right, Paul was wrong in his reaction.

Second, I need to take greater confidence in God’s daily leading. Paul stated clearly that he stood in good conscience. This came directly from two things: (1) His obedience and (2) his desire to please God more than man. I believe that Paul, in the most dire of times, had a peace that many of us crave as a result of this confidence. I find it easier and easier to actually obey and follow each day (okay, that might have been an overstatement) but the complete peace of God is not as easily found. This reminds me that I have work to do.

Another reminder for all of us is to trust in His timing. We want patience and we want it now. We want to follow God and we want to do it our way and in our timing. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve made promises to God about something I need to deal with but decided sub-consciously that I’ll deal with the issue “next time”. Many committed believers have a pretty good idea of God’s directing and what He wants from us (Whether we admit it or not). But to trust His timing can be the hardest part. At the perfect time, when Paul needed it most (probably physically, spiritually, and emotionally) it was time.

“The following night the Lord stood near Paul and said, "Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome." Acts 23:11

Father, we are complicated people. You already know that. Protect us from ourselves. Help us to prayerfully consider your ways as we determine our ways. Protect our relationships, our families, our friends, our workplace, and our churches.

Acts 22 "Self-Deception"

Acts 22 – Brandon Hatmaker “Self-Deception”
Monday, May 12, 2008

"Then the Lord said to me, 'Go; I will send you far away to the Gentiles.' "The crowd listened to Paul until he said this. Then they raised their voices and shouted, "Rid the earth of him! He's not fit to live!" – Acts 22:21-22

And they meant it.

All that Paul had been saying was received. Verse one says that the crowd became very quiet. So at the least, they were listening intently. He shared the miraculous experience on the road to Damascus, his intersection with Ananias, the visions he had at the temple, and the stoning of Stephen as he stood by.

I wonder if at this point they were thinking that maybe, just maybe, there was some hope to be found in Paul’s words. I wonder if they were digging in getting ready for something fresh, something new, and/or something that would complete what their religion had pointed them towards since the beginning.

Then he dropped a bomb on them. He told them that it was inclusive, not exclusive. He told them that God actually loved people that were not of Jewish descent and that Salvation would be for all those who believe. Ouch. And they completely lost it.

What is it with our exclusivity?

The heart behind the very fact that Jesus would reach out across faith backgrounds, across cultures, across genders, across ways of life and love all should saturate every aspect of our lives. It should change the way we think about people. It should change the way we look at scripture (especially the law). It should change the way we “do” church.

So here’s a recap; one of their “own” is telling them about this craziness. He’s talking about another guy named Jesus who was also Jewish. Paul reminded everyone of his heritage constantly. In 2 Corinthians 11:22 he said, “Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they Abraham's descendants? So am I.”

On three levels Paul is reminding him that he is from “within”. The three words he uses all have their own meaning. A "Hebrew" was a jew who could still speak the language in contradistinction to the Jews of the Dispersion who had forgotten their native tongue. An "Israelite" was specifically a member of the covenant nation. To be “of the seed of Abraham” was to have absolute racial purity. Paul’s claim was that there was nowhere in the world a purer Jew than him.

He did so again in Philippians 3, Romans 11, 1 Corinthians 10, Romans 4, Romans 9, Galatians 6, he did it in Acts 21, here in Acts 22, and will do it again in Acts 23.

The reason I over-emphasize this notion is to make this point: It’s supposed to come from within. It has to start with us, the Church. We have been chosen to share the Good News to a dying and hurting world. Not just the good news of a better life, but the Good News of eternal life, redemption, because of Jesus. As the Church, we have to ask the question, “Are we looking out, or are we looking in?” Are our programs and events focused on us who know Christ or on others who might not? Are we “going” or are we “staying”. Are we a sent people on mission or a content people who are staying put? Do we believe mission exists for the church or the church for mission?

Pardon the cliché’s. I just can’t help it.

I’m reading a book called “Leadership and Self-Deception”. The obvious premise is the fact that we all have a “problem”. That problem is the thing we personally lack in leadership that we don’t see ourselves. Typically everyone else sees it and knows it. But to us, we are so blind of it that we are not only oblivious but we are defensive, respond and react ignorantly out of it, and naively allow it to saturate all areas of our lives (everyone except me, kidding). It’s one of those concepts that make you realize the areas in which “we” are the problem, not others. The author goes so far to say that it starts with a sort of "self-betrayal". It's really profound.

Since the Church is made up of all us humans and sinners (although forgiven) alike, I think we would fair well to think about where and how we deceive ourselves. I think this is one of the biggies. We like things, the way we like things. Just food for thought. I’m glad we don’t fight change in the church today (smile).

Father, show us greater ways to live for you and for others. Show me the shortfalls in my own logic. Teach me your ways. God, protect us against self-deception in our faith and our leadership. Thank you that you allow us to be a part of your plan. What a humbling thought. Amen.

Acts 21 "Listen Up"

Acts 21 – Brandon Hatmaker “Listen Up”
Friday, May 9, 2008


“Paul answered, "I am a Jew, from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no ordinary city. Please let me speak to the people." Having received the commander's permission, Paul stood on the steps and motioned to the crowd. When they were all silent, he said to them in Aramaic” – Acts 21:39-40

Talk about your cliff-hangers. Paul had just been beaten, bound, and was being dragged away by the Roman soldiers. And God gave him platform to speak. The entire rioting crowd became silent and listened to the testimony of Paul. I found this absolutely amazing.

We work so hard to be heard. We position ourselves. We interrupt.

This makes me think this morning about our evangelical methods. So many times we speak out of our own strength. So many times we share out of zeal and excitement, but not necessarily on the leading of the Spirit. I think about people I’ve seen standing on street corners with their Bibles shouting at people as they walk by. I’ve seen how people respond to our methods. I think there is a different picture being painted in Acts 21. The difference; the Spirit was moving, the Spirit was drawing, and the Spirit was opening the door. We need to learn how to identify when that door is open and when it’s closed.

We need to be reminded that whether it’s a moment of sharing our testimony or anything we do in faith, we must seek out the Spirit’s leading more than our own methods or timing. That can only happen when we abide in Christ. That can only happen when we deny ourselves.

One other thing I thought interesting about today’s reading. Throughout Acts 21, the brothers begged Paul not to go to Jerusalem. They prayed and they wept together. But Paul had a firm word from God. What a great word for us today. The disciples loved Paul. They did not want him to go because they knew his fate. That scared them indeed. But Paul trusted God’s leading.

This was a test for Paul. Take a look at verse 4 again, “

“Finding the disciples there, we stayed with them seven days. Through the Spirit they urged Paul not to go on to Jerusalem. But when our time was up, we left and continued on our way.” – Acts 21:4-5

This clearly says that it was through the Spirit they urged Paul not to go. I think it’s amazing how multi-faceted our faith journey is. In the middle of all that is going on, Paul is being given an opportunity to show His faith strong. Even when everyone else was giving him an “out”, he stayed the course.

What a reminder to us. The Spirit is leading us into situations that will test our faith and our path. As we saw in Acts 20, this does not mean the absence of God’s hand. Sometimes it proves it. It means an opportunity for our faith to be proven true.

Acts 20 "Normalcy"

Acts 20 – Brandon Hatmaker “Normalcy”
Thursday, May 8, 2008

"And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me. However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace.” – Acts 20:22-24

Paul saw prison and hardship as a natural part of the Spirit’s movement in his life and a worthwhile result of following Christ.

Today, our tendency is to see trials and hardships as the lack of God’s hand. That just doesn’t make Biblical sense. When things don’t go like we hoped, we so quickly step back and ask Him where He went, point the finger, complain a little, and give up. However, trails are exactly what the word says they are, a testing of our faith. They show the purity of our commitment. In verse 19, Paul uses the word for trail that literally means, “putting to proof”. In verse 23, he uses the word hardship (more closely translated “afflictions”) which is defined as anguish, burden, and persecution. How many of us have experienced true affliction because of our faith?

So if we give up the moment tough times come. What do we prove?

What I feel today is humility because of God’s grace. Instead of guilt for whining all the time about little things that don’t go my way and are so petty (like I usually do when I read passages like this), I’m humbled that God has chosen to offer me the life I have. I hope we can all relate. Let’s remember and be thankful. Let’s reflect and be humbled. Let’s think of those in persecution and be prayerful.

Father, your grace is amazing. Be with those today who are being persecuted for your namesake. Give me the courage and strength to not allow the normalcy of this life to lesson my appreciation for all you have done. Teach me to lead, live, learn, struggle, grow, heal, and love out of thanksgiving to You. Amen.

Acts 19 "The Answer"

Acts 19 – Brandon Hatmaker “ The Answer”
Wednesday, May 7, 2008

“Paul entered the synagogue and spoke boldly there for three months, arguing persuasively about the kingdom of God. But some of them became obstinate; they refused to believe and publicly maligned the Way. So Paul left them. He took the disciples with him and had discussions daily in the lecture hall of Tyrannus. This went on for two years, so that all the Jews and Greeks who lived in the province of Asia heard the word of the Lord.” –Acts 19:8-10

There are so many arguments today about what saves you. While I don’t want to be the guy who referenced Oprah on his blog (I’ll do it anyway), with this “Whole Earth” thing, she’s found recently that if you are searching for significance in life, the debate on what you do with Jesus cannot escape you. She’s found it a very difficult path trying to keep neutral.

Paul and the early disciples were not arguing whether or not God existed. That was not the question. They all believed in God. They were arguing the person of Christ and His offer of Salvation. Somehow today, people of faith often settle for the argument about God’s existence and how we should live faith in God (if you do, and if you do, how you do). So many settle with the thought that if they can convince someone that God exists, it’s good enough. We do this at the expense of arguing our depravity and desperate need for redemption through Christ. This is not good. We simply cannot make Jesus a minor part of the equation.

This was the argument at Corinth (and pretty much every temple where Jesus was taught). Paul was not willing to bend. Jesus is the difference in faith. He’s inclusive and full of Grace. No doubt. And the Bible is clear.

Salvation is eternal. It’s not temporary. Jesus is not a substitute. He’s the answer. Thank you Jesus. We should find great comfort in this today. It’s in this reality that we find hope and peace. Not in something man-made or man-dreamed. It’s worth pursuing. It’s worth sharing. It’s most certainly worth living, and standing strong for.

Acts 18 "Know-it-all"

Acts 18 – Brandon Hatmaker “Know-it-all”
Tuesday, May 6, 2008

“Meanwhile a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was a learned man, with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. He had been instructed in the way of the Lord, and he spoke with great fervor and taught about Jesus accurately, though he knew only the baptism of John. He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately.” – Acts 18:24-26

Here is a scripture that leads to much debate in the theological world. Many argue that Apollos had a knowledge of who Jesus was, but did not know Him as savior. Others argue he did have a saving faith and that this passage of scripture was evidence that Baptism is not required for salvation, but moreso a public display of a decision already made.

While I certainly have an opinion on this debate from a theological standpoint (which by I don’t believe this specific scripture gives a ton of clarity to) the most significant thing to me this morning is that while Apollos was a much learned man, was instructed in the way of the Lord, and spoke of great fervor and taught accurately… he still had something to learn. And he received it. Many times in our faith we are above correction. We dig in our heals. We get so defensive that we don’t allow room for further instruction.

We should all remain students of the Word. Especially those of us teaching and leading.

Father, keep me teachable at all times. Give me a supernatural hunger for your Word. I confess at times a temptation to come across as if I know more than I do scripturally, especially as a Pastor. I pray for Your divine clarity. I pray that the Spirit would guide my personal study. I pray that your Truth would be found in my teaching. I pray that you would give me the courage to lead in accordance to your Word. Amen.

Acts 17, "Be Beroean"

Acts 17 – “ Be Beroean”

“The Beroean Jews were more open-minded than those of Thessalonica: they accepted the message with all eagerness and examined the scriptures daily to see of these things were so.” -Acts 17:11

A good friend of mine, Mike Kilbane (ex-Army Officer, West Point Grad, and Special Forces Soldier) wrote this today concerning Acts 17. I thought I'd share it with the rest of the world:

"Open-minded’, ‘eager’, and ‘examined the scriptures daily’: what a great model to follow in our fellowship and daily walk. I think it is the combination of these three elements that make them most worthy of emulation. They weren’t close-minded and skeptical, they weren’t blindly accepting of what a teacher or leader said. I think the one-word description of the Beroeans for me would be “engaged”. They were a group that was engaged in their faith. Learning about it, growing in it , and, eventually, living in it. There wasn’t a passive acceptance of it as merely knowledge; it was something to be internalized and lived out. I pray that in my own personal walk I stay engaged with the faith through an open-minded and eager approach to teaching, insight, and the Word."

Good Stuff. Thanks Mike.

Father, today I also pray for open-mindedness, eagerness and an ever increasing desire for your Word. May you be honored in that pursuit. Help me to daily deny myself and the selfish pursuits of my flesh. Amen.

Acts 16 "Big Plans"

Acts 16 – Brandon Hatmaker “Big Plans”
Friday, May 2, 2008

In Acts 16, Paul's life collided with three significant people and their "worlds":

“On the Sabbath we went outside the city gate to the river, where we expected to find a place of prayer. We sat down and began to speak to the women who had gathered there. One of those listening was a woman named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth from the city of Thyatira, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul's message.” Acts 16:13-14

“Once when we were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a slave girl who had a spirit by which she predicted the future... Finally Paul became so troubled that he turned around and said to the spirit, "In the name of Jesus Christ I command you to come out of her!" At that moment the spirit left her.” Acts 16:16 & 18

The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. He then brought them out and asked, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" They replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household. – Acts 16:29-30

God had led Paul to Philippi where he was flogged and put in prison. Not exactly the welcoming party he probably hoped for.

Yet it was here that he met Lydia and the other women who gathered for prayer. It was here that a young slave girl found freedom and deliverance from demonic captivity. It was here where the jailer and his whole family came to know Christ. And this was how God started this amazing, generous, Church of faith at Philippi. Pretty unconventional. But God had gone before them. He had laid the groundwork. The fields were ripe for harvest. And even in their adversity, they found massive fruit and established the beginning of a church, whose story ministers to us today.

All this because God revealed himself to Paul and the Spirit led him. He had a vision for life and ministry that was OF God and FROM God. The Bible clearly tells us that where there is no “revelation” or “vision” the people perish. This vision is not our vision. It is speaking clearly of something “seen” from God. It’s His vision. It's supernatural.

One thing I’m challenged by Paul today is His constant ability to have revelation from God. Daily he responded. He moved. He took action. And his fruit was truly God’s fruit. Our problem is that often we gain a vision and say, “Okay thanks for that God, I got it from here. Let me go now and make that happen for you.” And it will be weeks, if not months or even years before we seek it again or even ask how we are supposed to see it out.

When’s the last time we earnestly sought God’s revelation on something and kept with it until we found it? I mean His obvious, blatant, no-doubt leading. Not just in our church (although yes in our church), but ALSO in our personal lives?

Paul seemed to seek it daily. He also seemed to find it daily. In a moment of confession, I’ve been convicted this morning that I don’t seek it daily. I seek God. I ask him to do stuff for me daily (ugh). But I don’t seek his revelation enough. I seek it on big things. But then I take over on the strategy and get busy making it happen. Forgetting to seek more revelation along the way.

Most of us treat God’s revelation like a relay race where we take the baton and run. Rarely would we choose the three-legged race where we are yoked together. I think it’s because with our eyes we see it as too slow and awkward to stay together. But in God’s eyes, that race (journey) is about much more than speed.

God, sometimes I get so busy doing stuff for you and asking for stuff from you, that I forget to seek what you want. Especially in times that are seemingly successful. It seems like in those seasons of success, I seek your revelation even less. Forgive me for when I make my spiritual journey so much about what I’m doing and where I need you to fit into it. Help me to see your vision daily. Not just in what I would consider the big things, but in all things.

Acts 15 "Testing God"

Acts 15 – Brandon Hatmaker “Testing God”
Thursday, May 1, 2008

“Now then, why do you try to test God by putting on the necks of the disciples a yoke that neither we nor our fathers have been able to bear? No! We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are." Acts 15:10-11

Specifically Peter was talking about whether or not the Gentile believers should be circumcised, which was not only Jewish custom but was Jewish law. But in his answer, Peter was dealing with anything that was about the law and certainly anything that was more about the religion of old than it was relationship with Christ. It would make sense that it was the believers who once belonged to the party of the Pharisees, who raised this question. But it was certainly keeping with the Old Covenant, not the New.

Peter says that they were “testing” God by raising this question. Some translations use the word “tempt”. The word used here for “test” is the Greek word peirazo. Which comes from the word peira which means a test in it’s purest form, peirazo means more objectively to scrutinize or to examine.

What were they scrutinizing? Peter said they were testing God’s provision. While they did have faith, I think this group of believers was having a tough time grasping the completeness of Christ. Maybe they struggled in understanding fully his Grace. Maybe they were held by their tradition a little too much. Maybe they still wondered if could the Grace alone really be enough? Whether their minds or their hearts were really asking this question, their words and their actions certainly were. We do that today as well.

Peter quickly gave perspective and reminder that none of them could bear the yoke of the law. Paul later taught that the law brings wrath, but where there is no law, there is no transgression (Rom. 4:14-15). Why then would they force this upon a new generation of believers?

I think we should all take note of how we do faith. In laymen’s terms, we should evaluate our “religion” or how we “do” church. So many things are shaped by tradition more than scripture. So many traditions and beliefs are guarded as holy but are rules taught by men, rather than God.

Jesus most certainly addressed our bent to do this in Mark 7 when he said, “…you nullify the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And you do many things like that."

I pray that we do not place the yoke of the law (as discussed by Peter) around others, especially those young in their faith or those seeking the grace that Christ offers. I pray that we do not place the yoke of the law around ourselves. There is a huge difference between this and the pursuit of holiness. I pray that we trust the grace of Christ enough to know that it is “for freedom’s sake that we are set free”. We can never do enough. It’s a terrible cycle to get into thinking or even hoping we can (or at least, pay God back a little). Even worse, it lessons the cross of it’s significance. Jesus said, “It is finished”. It really is.

“For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” – John 1:17

“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” – Galatians 5:1

“Clearly no one is justified before God by the law, because, "The righteous will live by faith." – Galatians 3:11