Believe in the Lord Jesus — Weekly Encouragement – May 10, 2020

………………………………….“I determined to know nothing … except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.”………………………………….

Greetings Friend,

       “But some of the sect of the Pharisees who had believed stood up, saying, ‘It is necessary to circumcise them and to direct them to observe the Law of Moses.’” (Acts 15:5)

       Look at how difficult it is for even believing Pharisees to let go of trying to be good in order to satisfy God. That is not the Gospel and it undermines the sacrifice of Jesus, but when that’s what you’ve been taught, you almost can’t help but be religious and mix the Law with the Amazing, Saving Grace of God in Jesus.

       However, “…why do you put God to the test by placing upon the neck of the disciples a yoke which neither our fathers nor we have been able to bear?” (Acts 15:10) That was Peter talking – “I’m not able to keep the Law; you are not able to keep the Law; why are you telling people they have to keep the Law to please God?”

       “But we believe that we are Saved through the Grace of the Lord Jesus, in the same way as they also are.” (Acts 15:11) That was Peter again. Paul said it this way, “For by Grace you have been Saved through Faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works…”(Ephesians 2:8-9)

      So, here’s the Encouragement: “…’Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be Saved…’” (Acts 16:31) Trust that, and nothing else – that’s the Gospel.

God bless – and Happy Mother’s Day!!

Dave