FAITH: Comes by Hearing the Word of God
Romans 11:5–7: Even so then, at this present time there is a remnant according to the election of grace. And if by grace, then it is no longer of works; otherwise grace is no longer grace. But if it is of works, it is no longer grace; otherwise work is no longer work. What then? Israel has not obtained what it seeks; but the elect have obtained it, and the rest were blinded.
FAITH: Comes by Studying the Word of God
This remnant is saved by grace and not by works. It is impossible to mix grace and works, for the one cancels the other. Israel’s main concern had always been in trying to please God with good works. The nation refused to submit to Christ’s righteousness, just as religious, self-righteous people refuse to submit today. If a remnant had been saved, thus proving that God was not through with His people, then what had happened to the rest of the nation? They had been hardened (a better translation than “blinded.” This was the result of their resisting the truth, just as Pharaoh’s heart was hardened because he resisted the truth. 1
FAITH: Comes by Obeying the Word of God
Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us… Titus 3:5
Salvation has always been a work of grace. There is never any other way. God continues His fruitful work only by grace. If you are unable to live under His grace, you will live a life under the burden of self-righteousness, and become an eternal looser.
FAITH: Comes by Experiencing the Transforming Work of God
When you harden your heart towards God, your journey will be graceless.
FAITH: Comes by Praying with the Word of God
He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world… Ephesians 1:4
Dear Father, I am so thankful that You loved me before I even knew You. Amen.
1. Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Vol. 1, pp. 550–551). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
