The proof of the pudding
Over the last 2 weeks, we have looked at Faith vs works of the Law, and then how God saves us by grace through faith in Christ. In our next Nourish Study, we take time to look at the wider context of how this faith plays out in our lives. What does the life of one who has faith in Christ look like? Smooth sailing, an easy life where Jesus makes all our problems disappear? Though some people think this (and some even falsely teach it) this is not what the Bible says life as a Christian is like.
In our text below we see a different story unfolding – not a life where everything comes easy, but rather a life where true faith can thrive and produce what God intends. As you read Rom 5:1-5, what do you see? What’s the life context? Compare it with a similar passage in 1 Peter (below): what do you believe God is aiming for, what is His goal for you? – as you read, jot down your thoughts and let’s discuss it together – see you then …
Key Text
Romans 5:1–5 (ESV) 1 Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. 3 Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, 4 and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, 5 and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.
Supporting Text
1 Peter 1:3–9 (ESV) 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, 5 who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honour at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 8 Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, 9 obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.
What is God looking for?
What is the process He uses?
Is this a surprise to me? Or was I expecting it?
What focus does Scripture encourage me to keep as I go through it?