Our Mission…to see lives changed through a growing relationship with Jesus Christ.
THE BAD NEWS ABOUT RELIGION
- Religion focuses on the
“What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! For you are so careful to clean the outside of the cup and the dish, but inside you are filthy—full of greed and self-indulgence! You blind Pharisee! First wash the inside of the cup and the dish, and then the outside will become clean, too.” Matthew 23:25-26 (NLT)
“They crush people with unbearable religious demands and never lift a finger to ease the burden.” Matthew 23:3-4 (NLT)
THE GOOD NEWS ABOUT JESUS
“For no one can ever be made right with God by doing what the law commands. The law simply shows us how sinful we are. 21 But now God has shown us a way to be made right with him without keeping the requirements of the law, as was promised in the writings of Moses and the prophets long ago. 22 We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are.” Romans 3:20-22 (NLT)
What Does This Mean?
- You cannot earn God’s acceptance by
“For no one can ever be made right with God by doing what the law commands.” Romans 3:20a (NLT)
- The purpose of the Law is to show your need for a
“The law simply shows us how sinful we are.” Romans 3:20b (NLT)
- Being right with God comes by
“We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are.” Romans 3:22 (NLT)
Talk It Over:
Are you more of a rule-follower or a rule-breaker?
Read Romans 3:20-22. What are ways people try to earn God’s favor?
How have you experienced the undeserved grace of God in your life? Can you share something specific?
Action Step:
Memorize Romans 3:22 this week. When you start to try to ward off fear and shame with rules or work, quote the Scripture and be motivated by God’s love.