June 13 Sermon

[florafcc]

This will be a last attempt. If no feedback is given, and that's ok, I
may choose to discontinue this blog.

Sunday's sermon is from Galatians 2:15-21 and deals with justification
of faith. What is the difference in "the law" and "faith" when it
comes to justification in Christ. Paul says, "I no longer live in the
body, I live by faith in the Son of God." Is that really possible?

Woody

[lawl...@gmail.com]

Dear Pastor Woody,

I hope you will continue these posts. I have enjoyed the preview of next week's sermon, even if I don't reply. It might take awhile to develop, but I can see this as a real benefit, especially to new or younger folks.

-- Miriam
Sent from my U.S. Cellular BlackBerry® smartphone

[Janalie]

I wouldn't give it up, at least, not yet. For me, I have to remember
to check it out. Didn't think of it until last night. I would
probably be too much to ask you to send out a reminder on Monday.
Hmmm. Wonder if Miriam has an alarm go off.

I looked at the scripture in Galatians, and am not sure what to
think. I think we are obligated to obey "the law," at least how it is
manifested in our country, but being justified in Christ has some
parallels, and also some differences. "The law" tells us we have to
stop at stop signs while driving, but as a Christian, I stop ALSO out
of respect for others, and allow others to go ahead of me, then, even
if it's really my turn. I notice others do the same. So are they
Christians, also? Non-Christians may behave considerately, also.

So, being justified in Christ has to do with believing, accepting, and
being saved, and then LIVING our faith. BUT, that doesn't mean we
don't have to obey the law! (Right, Miriam?)

Will be looking forward to this sermon!

Peace,
Janalie

[Miriam Robeson]

This may be a departure from your intent in the sermon notes, but in response to what Janalie said about obeying the law, I would like to note that while it's important to obey the law and be a good citizen, it is also important to protest laws that are wrong, that promote inequality, or are harmful to our citizens and our nation, or are "un-Christian."  As Christians, we must be, I think, even more vigilant than good-hearted, non-Christian citizens.  As Christians, we must evaluate the laws that are enacted (or proposed), and respond to our legislators, accordingly.  Good Christians are good citizens, but not sheep, and should be actively involved in our legislative process to do the best that we can to make sure that the laws and the legislators are doing the "right" things, not just the expedient or cost-effective things, or even the things that are good for the "majority" of citizens (whatever that means).


--
Peace,
Miriam Robeson
lawl...@gmail.com