Messages

Can God be trusted to keep his promises? What about his promises to his people, the Israelites? As we exit Romans 11, Paul finally answers these questions. And his answer is summed up in two words, disobedience, and mercy.

When it comes to the family of God, there is only one family tree. And in this family tree, some branches that were once a part have been cut off. Other branches were not original but have been grafted in. Paul has some good news and bad news: those who have been cut off can be grafted in again, and those who have been grafted in can be cut off again.

As a God follower, there will likely be times when you feel all alone. When it seems as if you are the only one who is still trying to be faithful. The reality, however, is that there has always been and always will be a remnant chosen by grace. We can rest assured that as followers of Jesus, we are never alone.

No one comes to faith in Jesus without hearing the gospel of Jesus. No one can believe the good news that they haven’t heard. And we have been tasked with making sure those around us hear it. But we can’t make people respond in faith. As Paul teaches in this text, there will be some who hear it and reject it. But our job is still the same: Preach the word!

Who gets an invitation into the kingdom of God? ANYone and EVERYone! The gospel isn’t just good news for the few. It is an invitation for all to call on the name of the Lord. The question this text has for us is, have you responded to the good news of Jesus?

Some teach that it doesn’t matter what you believe or what faith you practice as long as you are sincere, but Paul teaches otherwise. Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life, and no one comes to the Father except through me." There is no way of salvation outside of Jesus, no matter how zealous for God you are.

Are people chosen for salvation or destruction? If so, is it fair for God to hold people accountable for a choice they couldn’t make? This is one of the most difficult questions Romans 9 makes us ask.

How much do you care for those who are outside of Christ? In this text, we see Paul willing to give up his own salvation for those he loves who are outside of Jesus. And we are reminded, again, that it takes more than having Abraham's DNA to be his child, you must have his faith.

Who can be against the people of God? Lots of people. We have an enemy who is against us every day, and we are at war with sin and flesh everyday. The question really isn’t who can be against us, the question is who can defeat the people of God? And the answer to that is no one or nothing! We are more than conquerers through Jesus!

Suffering in this life is inevitable. Does that mean God is powerless, absent, or angry? Not at all. God is sovereign, and no matter what suffering we endure or why we endure it, God is great enough to use it for good. Although this isn’t a promise for everyone. It is a promise made for those who love him.