Theme: THE REWARD OF FAITH
Text: “Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.” – Galatians 2:16.
Comment: In the worship of our Heavenly Father, true Christians depend on absolute faith in Him. Apostle Paul says without faith it would be downright impracticality to meet His requirements: “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” – Hebrews 11:6.
The works of the law or letters of the law cannot give one salvation as some of the unbelieving Jews were made to believe. It is one’s faith in Jesus Christ as the Saviour that is paramount. Jesus himself stated: “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.
In practice, the letters of the law will lead to nowhere. Jesus to his followers said: “All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not.” (Matthew 23:3). Saint Paul says that it is “not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.” (2 Corinthians 3:6). Christians “walk by faith, not by sight” – 2 Corinthians 5:7.