INTRODUCTION
Outline.
1. The Scriptures for the Son
2. The Sacrifice for Sins
3. The Salvation for Sinners
Introductory Remarks.
1. In our lesson today, we will discuss the emphatic declaration of Jesus on the cross – "It is finished." Let me be clear; he does not mean one part of it is finished – but – the complete plan is finished. I am convinced that he speaks concerning the will of God for the work of redemption for all humanity. Notice Jesus: "I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do," John 17:4. Jesus has completed all God's requirements for Him to become the perfect sacrifice for the sins of all humanity; for their total and complete redemption. His life, suffering, death, and resurrection made this possible. Praise the Lord, all ye people!
2. First, we will discuss "the fulfillment of scriptures for the Son." In this statement of fact; Jesus did not say, I am finished; but that "it is finished." I have finished – the work I came to do for my Father. The first was to fulfill all the scripture that is spoken of me. "I have not come to destroy the Law and the Prophets, but to fulfill or complete (them)," Matthew 5:17-18.
3. Secondly, we will consider "the sacrifice for sins." Jesus states in this phrase – "it is finished" the sacrifice for the sins of the world. I have completed this work for my Father. I have become the Propitiation for the sins committed under the Old and the New covenants. I have become the "mercy seat of God." John wrote: "And he (Christ) is the propitiation (mercy seat) for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world" 1 John 2:2.
4. Lastly, we will note that in this statement, Jesus declared he has purchased "salvation for all sinners." In his death, he has paid the ransom price for all sins. Our salvation is no longer based upon our works of righteousness – but on the works of righteousness, Christ has finished on behalf of all sinners. Paul said: "For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness for everyone that believeth," Romans 10:4. Paul says further: "For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life," Romans 5:10. Our Salvation is based entirely on the life and work of Christ for our eternal redemption. Let's begin this lesson with how Christ's life and death have fulfilled all the Old Testament scriptures as the Son of God and the promised Messiah for Israel.
BODY OF LESSON
I THE SCRIPTURES FOR THE SON
A. Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. He said: "Think not that I have come to destroy the Law and the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill (to finish). For verily I say unto you. Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the Law, till all be fulfilled (finished)," Matthew 5:17-18. Jesus stated,
1. I did not come to destroy the Law and the prophets. But I have come -to complete or to fulfill it. That is, I have come to do the work of my Father. To complete the work planned and purposed before the foundation of the world, Titus 1:1-3. Jesus said,
a. First, “Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled (finished),” Matthew 5:17.
b. Further, “And it is easier for heaven and earth to pass, than one tittle of the law to fail,” Luke 16:18. He said again: “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away,” Matthew 24:35. David affirms: “Forever O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven,” Psalms 119:89.
c. Next, "I come not to destroy the law, but to fulfill it," Matthew 5:17. What does it mean to “fulfill the law?”
d. Lastly, "Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me) to do thy will, O God…He taketh away the first that he might establish the second," Hebrews 10:7-9. [Text shortened for brevity].
e. Conclusion: Jesus came to complete and fulfill all that was written of Him in the volume of the Book. To take away the first (the Old Testament); that He might establish the second (the New Testament). Jesus offered himself on the cross as the sacrifice of all sins forever. Christ “Became the mediator of the New Testament, that through death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. For where a testament is, there must also, of necessity, be the death of the testator. For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise, it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth," Hebrews 9:15-17; Romans 3:24-26. Observe,
2. I came to fulfill. To complete or fulfill the prophecy of Jesus as the coming Messiah for the nation of Israel. The words "to fulfill" in Gr. are pleroo, or play-ro'-o, which means to: —accomplish, (be) complete, end, make whole, perfect, supply, etc.
a. The Law, He came to fulfill or end. Paul wrote: "For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone that believeth," Romans 10:4. Christ obeyed the Father's will for righteousness. He told John the Baptist: "For thus it becometh us, to fulfill all righteousness, and he suffered Him. And when He was come up out of the water…this is my beloved Son in whom I am well please,” Matthew 3:15-17.
b. Jesus came to fulfill or complete what the prophets had written regarding Him.
c. The Psalms, He came to fulfill or finish. John wrote: “When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said: “It is finished. Then bowing His head, He gave up the ghost," John 19:30.
d. After His resurrection. Jesus said unto His apostles: “He told them, these are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you – that everything written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets, and the Psalms must be fulfilled. Then He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures…until you are empowered from on high,” Luke 24:44-49. (Text shortened for brevity).
3. Complete the work of my Father. Jesus said,
a. First, “My meat is to do the will of Him that sent me, and to finish His work,” John 4:34.
b. Next, "My doctrine is not mine, but His that sent me. If any man will do His will, he shall know the doctrine, whether it be of God or whether I speak of myself. He that speaketh of himself seeketh his glory, but he that seeketh the glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in Him," John 7:16-18.
c. Lastly, "Father, the hour comes; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee…I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work thou gavest me to do. And now, O Father, glorify me with thine own self with the glory I had with thee before the world was…Father, I will that they (my disciples) also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world,” John 17:4-26. (Text shortened for brevity).
4. Conclusion: Jesus came to fulfill all the Law, the Prophets, and the Psalms concerning His sufferings, death, burial, and resurrection. He completed all that was written of Him regarding the scriptures.
B. Let's be clear here that the statement of Jesus, "It is finished," without a doubt, includes the total and complete fulfillment of all the Old Testament Laws, the Prophets, and the Psalms concerning Him and to complete the righteousness of God, through the Law of Moses.
1. If righteousness was possible through a system of Law – then the Law of God, given by Moses, could have brought such righteousness. The truth is the Law in and of itself can never bring about righteousness once one violates any of its ordnances. Jesus needed to be born under the Law to redeem us from the Law through His righteous obedience to all its commandments, Galatians 4:4-6. Recall,
2. The Lord said: “He has come to fulfill the law and prophets, not to destroy or set them aside.”
3. Christ came to live in complete fulfillment of all the laws, the prophets, and the Psalms concerning the righteousness of God. The Law condemns all men to death; but has no power to save or forgive the transgressor. Christ's life and death upon the cross fulfilled the righteousness of the Law. When Jesus came, lived, died, and was raised from the dead: He fulfilled over 300 prophecies from the Old Testament scriptures. Matthew's gospel foretold their fulfillment in Christ more than others.
4. Jesus did what our fathers could not do – obtain righteousness under the Law. Observe,
a. Notice Paul on this point: "Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins: And by him, all that believe are justified from all things, which ye could not be justified by the Law of Moses," Acts 13:38-39.
b. Notice Peter: "Now, therefore, why tempt ye, God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples (Gentiles), which neither our fathers nor we could bear? But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, we shall be saved, even as they," Acts 15:10-11.
C. Brethren, my heart desires. Paul says: "Brethren, my heart and desire for Israel is," Romans 10:1-4. Paul says that the work of righteousness under the Law has been fulfilled by Christ's life, death, burial, and resurrection. Observe,
1. First, "Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is that they might be saved," Romans 10:1. Notice, "that they might be saved."
2. Further, "For I bear them to record (testimony) that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge," Romans 10:2. They have a zeal of God, but not according to the fundamental knowledge that God has now made manifest in Christ Jesus, 1 Timothy 3:16.
3. Next, "For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God," Romans 10:3.
4. Lastly, "For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone that believeth," Romans 10:4; Romans 1:16-18.
D. Our righteousness before God was not established through our actions; it was based entirely upon “our faith in Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the law’s requirement for all that believe in Him,” Romans 10:4. Christ has fulfilled the righteousness of the Law. And His righteousness,
1. God has imputed (accredited) to us. This blessing was foreshadowed in Abraham. Paul wrote: “Now it was not written for his (Abraham’s) sake alone, that it was imputed (attributed) to him. But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised Jesus from the dead; Who was delivered for our offenses, and was raised again for our justification," Romans 4:23-25.
2. God’s righteousness is granted through Jesus Christ. Paul again, “If righteousness could come by the law, then the death of Christ wouldn't have been necessary,” Galatians 2:20-21.
3. Righteousness of the Law fulfilled in us. Paul inscribed: "For what the Law could not do…God sent His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh. The righteousness of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the things of the Spirit," Romans 8:3-4.
4. Conclusion: Therefore, Paul could state: “That I might be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by (through the) faith,” Philippians 3:9. Hear he means his faith and obedience to the gospel of Christ, Acts 22:16; Acts 26:19; Romans 10:16-18.
E. Jesus Christ has fulfilled all that has been written of Him. Notice his statement to his apostles once raised from the dead. "And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the Law of Moses, the prophets, and the psalms, concerning me. Then he opened their understanding of the scriptures and said unto them. Thus, it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem," Luke 24:44-49. Observe,
1. First, “Let us not rent it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be: that the scripture might be fulfilled, which saith, they parted my raiment among them, and for my vesture, they cast lots. These things, therefore, the soldiers did," John 19:24.
2. Next, “After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the scripture might be fulfilled, saith, I thirst,” John 19:28.
3. Lastly, "And he that saw it bare record, and his record is true: and he knoweth that he saith true, that ye might believe. For these things to be done, the scripture should be fulfilled. A bone of his shall not be broken. And again, another scripture saith: They shall look on him whom they pierced,” John 19:35-37. Luke wrote,
4. Conclusion: All the prophets have foretold of these days. “But those things, which God before had shewed by the mouth of all the prophets, that Christ should suffer, He hath fulfilled,” Acts 3:18. Further, Luke wrote: "Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days," Acts 3:22-26. What days, “the last days,” Hebrews 1:1-3; Isaiah 2:2-3. Now, let’s consider our next point in this lesson.
II THE SACRIFICE FOR SINS
A. Christ declares in the statement – "it is finished," – He has become the final sacrifice for sins, and humanity's entire debt has been wholly paid. No longer will there be a requirement for the “blood of bulls and goats?" His blood was shed for the “forgiveness of sins,” Matthew 26:26-28. Remember the soldier’s spear, John 19:34.
B. Calvary is described here not as a bailout – but as a debt paid in full. Christ has forever put away the need for other sacrifices – he has become the sacrifice for sins. God has been pleased first in his life; and finally in his suffering. Isaiah outlines this account over 600 years before its fulfillment. Isaiah wrote,
1. First, for us, "He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him, and with his stripes, we are healed," Isaiah 53:7.
2. Further, before them, "He was taken from prison and judgment: and who shall declare his generation? For he was cut off from the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was he stricken," Isaiah 53:8.
3. Next, among them, “And He made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth,” Isaiah 53:9.
4. Also, before God, “Yet it pleased the Lord to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand,” Isaiah 53:10.
5. Again, of Him, “He (Jehovah) shall see the travail of his soul and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities," Isaiah 53:11.
6. Lastly, for Him, “Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and was numbered with the transgressors; and he bared the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors," Isaiah 53:12.
C. This statement also established that there would be no more need for the Priesthood or the temple – Jesus has become our High Priest over the house of God forever. Matthew's account of the event reveals the truth of this statement. "Jesus, when he had cried again loudly, yielded up the ghost. And, behold, the veil of the temple was rented in twain from top to bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent and the graves were opened; after his resurrection, and saints went into the holy city, and appeared unto many," Matthew 27:50-53. See also Luke 23:45. We now have a great High Priest. "Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession," Hebrews 4:14; Hebrews 3:1; Hebrews 8:1-3. Paul wrote,
1. First, “Christ has become a high priest over the house of God,” Hebrews 10:21. He is a High Priest over a greater and more perfect Tabernacle.
2. Further, "But Christ having become a high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us," Hebrews 9:11-12.
3. Next, “When he (Christ) had by himself purge our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on High,” Hebrews 1:3.
4. Finally, "Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first that he may establish the second. By the will, we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once and for all. And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering frequently the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins: But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down on the right hand of God; from henceforth expecting till his enemies are made his footstool. For by one offering, he hath perfected them that are sanctified forever," Hebrews 10:11-14. Paul wrote of this New Covenant. And Christ being,
D. The mediator of the New Testament. He penned: "How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? For where a testament is, there must also, of necessity, be the death of the testator. For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise, it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth,” Hebrews 9:14-18. Now let's consider something significant!
NOTE: Illustrate Christ's promise to the thief on the cross.
1. Let’s talk about the thief. And Jesus' words to him, "Today shalt thou be with me in paradise," Luke 23:39-43. It is evident by the reply of our Lord that he had compassion and forgiveness for the thief. To this, we all agree.
a. However, we must consider this: "Can we be saved like him? Or does the New Testament support this form of salvation?" Here are some facts we must consider about the thief:
b. This man’s sins and transgressions were done under the old covenant. He rebuked the other malefactor for railing on Jesus, Luke 23:39-40.
c. He feared God and accepted his condition as being "due reward for his deeds, but this man (Jesus) hath done nothing amiss," Luke 23:41.
d. His request of Christ, "Lord remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom," Luke 23:42. He knew of the kingdom of God and Christ's teaching.
e. The reply of Jesus for the thief: “Verily I say unto thee, today shalt thou be with me in paradise,” Luke 23:43.
f. Conclusion: Christ was nigh to establishing the New Testament, which occurred at His death, Hebrews 9:15-17. The New Testament has new terms and conditions for salvation. It requires faith and obedience to "enter the kingdom of God," John 3:3-5.
This act of forgiveness by Jesus took place under the Old Testament (like all others during His ministry on earth).
1) Those who preach the thief's salvation; ignore Christ's teaching and His promises of salvation to believers under the "Christian Dispensation," Ephesians 1:11-14.
2) Teachers of “the thief’s form of salvation on the cross” reject the New Testament and Christ's terms of Salvation under His Covenant of grace. The teachings of Christ and the New Testament are paramount in one's salvation under the “dispensation of the grace of God,” Ephesians 2:1-10.
NOTE: Illustrate, The Dispensation of Grace. Paul explains this truth to the Ephesians in his letter to them, Ephesians 3:1-7.
3) Israel’s religious leaders, like these teachers, have not removed the veil from their eyes to see the face of God in Christ, 2 Corinthians 3:13-18; 2 Corinthians 4:3-7. They had become engrossed in the traditions of their fathers and not in the truth of God, Galatians 1:13-24.
2. Paul speaks of Israel’s blindness and the Gentiles' call into God's grace. Observe,
a. He wrote: "But their (Israel) minds were blinded: for unto this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the Old Testament; which vail is done away in Christ," 2 Corinthians 3:14. We need to take away the veil in some of the reading of the scriptures by our brethren. I pray that God “remove the veil of biases from their eyes!” See 2 Timothy 2:24-26.
b. Paul further writes: “In that He saith, a new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish," Hebrews 8:13; 2 Corinthians 3:11-14.
NOTE: Illustrate, The Covenant of Christ. Hebrews 8:7; Hebrews 10:15-18; and Jeremiah 31:33-34. Sadly, I must confess,
c. The advocates of the thief's form of salvation ignore entirely the terms of Christ for Salvation under the Great Commission, Matthew 28:19-20; Romans 1:16-17, Ephesians 1:13-14.
d. Paul affirms: “But if our gospel is hidden, it is hidden to them that are lost: In whom the God of this world blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them,” 2 Corinthians 4:4-7; 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12. It is the Lord that has "blinded the minds of Israel and all other disbelievers to the truth of the gospel." Thank God for that,
e. Israel’s blindness was not permanent. But would remain “until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in,” Romans 11:25-27. And Israel would accept the “Covenant of Christ.”
1) Paul wrote: “Nevertheless, when it (Israel) shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away.” 2 Corinthians 3:16.
2) Jesus outlined to those believing Jews, His,
a) Doctrine: “Ye shall know the truth.” The truth that brings salvation has not yet been revealed, John 16:13. To be made free from sin!
b) Conditions of discipleship: "Then shall ye be my disciples indeed." "Except a man be born of the water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God," John 3:3-5.
c) Deliverance from their sins: "And the truth shall free you," John 8:31-32. All believers must "obey that form of doctrine from the heart," Romans 6:17-18.
d) Conclusion: “If the Son, therefore, shall make you free, then ye shall be free indeed,” John 8:36.
3) So, shall it be with many of those in this assembly and those who will read this lesson? There is hope for all who would "read, hear, and obey the word of truth!" Acts 8:12; Acts 18:8.
3. It is finished – the Old Testament. We are now under the New Testament and must adhere to the terms of Christ's will to be saved. His will was not in effect when he forgave and saved the thief. It is in force now, and all must come unto the Father as Christ has outlined in His will, John 6:44-45; John 7:38-39; John 14:6.
4. Father into thy hands. "And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit and having said thus, he gave up the ghost (He released his spirit)," Luke 23:46. "For The body without the spirit is dead," James 2:26.
a. Jesus said: "Therefore doth my Father love me because I lay down my life, that I might retake it. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have the power to lay it down, and I have the power to retake it. This commandment have I received of my Father," John 10:17.
b. And Paul: “He became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross,” Philippians 2:5-10. Christ became obedient to the Father – by laying down his life – for us all.
c. Christ willingly died on the cross on our behalf and to complete His work of reconciliation, 2 Corinthians 5:14-15; 2 Corinthians 5:19-21. Listen to Paul,
E. Christ the Propitiation. God hath set forth Christ Jesus as the Propitiation: our mercy seat, Hebrews 9:5. Calvary was the place whereby Christ appeased and satisfied God: by offering His Blood to atone for the world's sins, John 19:34; 1 John 2:1-2.
1. First, “Propitiation means a place or thing, i.e., an atoning victim, or a place behind the veil: —the mercy-seat. Isaiah wrote: “He (God) shall see of the travail of His (Christ) soul, and shall be satisfied…and my righteous servant shall justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities,” Isaiah 53:11.
2. Further, "Through the redemption in His blood," Romans 3:25; Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 1:13-14. Redemption and forgiveness are only possible through His Blood. It was at Calvary Jesus shed it! Observe,
a. One, "To declare God's righteousness for the remission of past sins." The sins passed over in the former ages (Patriarch, Mosaic). At times of ignorance: "God once winked at, but now commandeth all men everywhere to repent," Acts 17:30; Acts 14:16; Psalms 50:16-23.
b. Two, “Through the forbearance of God.”
c. Three, "The transgressions under the first testament."
3. Next, "To declare His righteousness, [I say,] at this time." To show His righteousness for these acts of grace towards those he had called under the Old Covenant. For what reason:
a. First, "That He might be Just," Isaiah 45:21; Jeremiah 23:5-6.
b. Second, “The Justifier of him which believeth in Jesus,” Romans 3:26. Therefore, we have been,
4. Lastly, “Justified freely by His grace through the faith in Christ Jesus," Romans 3:24; Galatians 2:16. Paul certifies that Christ has finished all that was required for our eternal salvation in his death on the cross. And the church said: “Amen.” Now let’s review our last point in this lesson.
III THE SALVATION FOR SINNERS
A. Finally, Jesus says: "the entire ransom for sinners has been paid." The purchase price for the world's redemption has been paid in full – "it is finished." The apostle Paul strongly protested the teaching of the Jewish leaders: To be saved, the Gentile converts needed not only Jesus – but must also "keep the Law of Moses and be circumcised" Acts 15:1-5. The early church leaders concluded after the Jerusalem Conference – “We gave no such commandments" Acts 15:24.
B. What the Law could not provide – Christ has given us in His Grace – the “forgiveness of sins.” Paul speaking regarding this truth: “In whom we have redemption through his blood – the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace,” Ephesians 1:7. Also, “In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins,” Colossians 1:14. Further,
1. He penned: “Being justified freely by his grace (through the faith) in Christ Jesus. Whom God hath set forth to be the Propitiation (through the redemption) in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of past sins, through the forbearance of God; To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus," Romans 3:24-26; Hebrews 9:5.
NOTE: This Author believes the Text rightfully reads: “Being justified…through the faith in Christ Jesus. Whom God hath set forth to be the Propitiation through the redemption in his blood, to declare his righteousness…of him which believeth in Jesus.” And so, says the Greek Text through Greek Parsing.
a) Christ is not “a propitiation” but “the propitiation” for all sins that span every generation, in every dispensation (both the Old and New Covenants), Hebrews 9:14-17.
(Text shortened for brevity).
b) Propitiation – means to appease, to show mercy, to atone, or to sanctify.
2. John wrote: “And he (Christ) is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world,” 1 John 2:2.
3. He penned again: “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins,” 1 John 4:10.
4. Paul also agrees: "And over it, the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercy seat (propitiation); of which we cannot now speak particularly,” Hebrews 9:5.
5. Conclusion: Christ has become the mercy seat that was pre-figured by the “mercy seat” inside the curtain or (behind the vail), on which the high priest, on the Day of Atonement, “sprinkled it with the blood of bulls and goats, for the sins of the people,” Leviticus 16:1-34; Matthew 27:51; 2 Corinthians 3:14; Hebrews 10:1-4.
C. Blessed is the man. "Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin," Romans 4:6-8; Psalms 32:1-2.
1. Paul's writing regarding redemption and forgiveness of sins.
The word "imputes" in Gr. is logizomai, which means not to reckon, count, compute, calculate, count, or carry over.
a. God does not keep tabs on all our sins.
b. Like David, our sins are not being "imputed" or "added" to our account.
c. God has "covered and forgiven them" through His mercy and grace.
2. Paul wrote that this blessing has also been given to us, "the believers in Christ Jesus.”
3. He inscribed: "Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him; But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised Jesus our Lord from the dead; who was delivered for our offenses, and was raised again for our justification," Romans 4:23-25.
D. The grace of God. Paul wrote Titus: "For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works," Titus 2:11-14.
E. Paul further writes: "Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in the hope of the glory of God," Romans 5:1-2; Galatians 3:11-12.
1. God and Jesus Christ have granted salvation through grace. Observe,
2. However, faith and obedience are necessary to obtain salvation through grace.
a. “For by grace ye are saved through (the) faith,” Ephesians 2:4-6; Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5-7.
b. “For they all have not obeyed the gospel,” Romans 10:16-18; Romans 1:5; Romans 16:25-26.
c. salvation is procured by one’s faith in and obedience to: “the gospel of the grace of God,” Acts 20:24; Acts 6:7; Hebrews 5:8-9.
3. Obedience is a foreign message to many pastors today. Listen to the beloved apostle Paul:
a. "Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?" Acts 9:3-6.
b. “What shall I do, Lord?” Acts 22:6-10.
c. “I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision,” Acts 26:19.
d. Ananias said unto Paul: "And now why tarriest thou? Arise, be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord," Acts 22:16.
4. Throughout the Book of Acts, we have learned the will and commandments of God as it pertains to "salvation by grace."
5. The “four gospels" – outline the miracles and work of Christ for our Salvation, John 20:30-31. The "gospels" do not contain the "form of doctrine" that must be obeyed to receive the forgiveness of sins. Paul outlined this doctrine when he wrote: "But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness," Romans 6:17-18.
6. The “Book of Acts” outlines the examples of believers that embraced the grace of God through the gospel of Christ, Romans 1:14-17. In the coming weeks, we will discuss the many acts of conversions outlined in the Book of Acts. The casual Bible reader will never clearly learn, nor obey the “terms of pardon” revealed through the “acts of conversion” outlined in the Book of Acts. These terms were not “made manifest” unto the prophets of old, nor through the miracles of Christ during His ministry unto the world. The “Holy Spirit” on the Day of Pentecost: “Shew it unto the apostles” in their preaching of the first, and subsequent “gospel messages unto the world,” John 16:13; Acts 1:8; Acts 2:1-4; Acts 2:14-17; Acts 2:36-41.
7. As I close, let me state that the “thief on the cross” did not obey the “gospel of Christ.” Christ’s terms of pardon were not yet in effect. And we cannot be saved like the thief, because we are not under the covenant he died under (the Old Testament). The Book of Acts begins the covenant of Christ (the New Testament), and outlines Christ’s “terms of pardon” for all that would come unto Him, Matthew 11:28-30. Remember, the thief's form of salvation is taught today to affirm he was saved without baptism: and therefore, “baptism is not essential for salvation." Recall, I discussed this position last week in the lesson: “Is there water in the plan?” As I conclude, we have discussed the following points.
CONCLUSION
A. Outline.
1. The Scriptures for the Son
2. The Sacrifice for Sins
3. The Salvation for Sinners
B. Summarize main points.
1. First, we discussed "the scriptures for the Son." In this statement of fact; Jesus did not say, I am finished; but that "it is finished." It is finished – the work I came to do for my Father. The first is to fulfill all the scripture that is spoken of me. I have not come to destroy the Law and the Prophets but to fulfill them.
2. Secondly, we considered "the sacrifice for sins." Jesus states in this phrase – it is finished the sacrifice for the sins of the world. I have completed this work for my Father. I have become the Propitiation for the sins committed under the Old and the New covenants. I have become the "mercy seat of God."
3. Lastly, we noted that in this statement, Jesus has declared he has purchased "salvation for all sinners." In his death, he has paid the ransom price for all humanity. Their salvation will no longer be upon their works or righteousness – but the works I have done in my Father's name.
a. As ministers, we ought to walk "giving no offense in anything that the ministry be not blamed," 2 Corinthians 6:3. Being an example, 1 Timothy 4:12. We should not handle the word of God "deceitfully, dishonestly, or in craftiness," 2 Corinthians 4:2. We must "rightly divide the word of truth," 2 Timothy 2:15. Remember the power of the written word, and its condemnation, John 12:48.
b. As believers, "we ought to be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to wrath," James 1:19.
c. Explain the pattern of conversion, i.e., hearing and believing the gospel; repentance of all past sins; confessing faith in Christ, as the Son of God; and then, by obeying the gospel; that is to: “repent and be baptized, in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost,” Acts 2:38; Romans 6:17-18; Ephesians 1:12-14].
D. Exhortation. Do as Peter directed: “Save thyself from this untoward (wicked and ungodly) generation,” Acts 2:40; Acts 2:36-39; Acts 2:41.
E. Motivation. We love you here at this congregation of God's people and want the best for your life and your family. We invite you now to come and respond to God's love and his Son's death. Let it not be said of us: “The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved,” Jeremiah 8:20. What you do today will have lasting benefits for you and those you love, whether family or friends. Come, the “Spirit and the Bride say: come. Come while God calls you to repentance, and forgiveness of your sins. Come now and respond to the love of God, as we rise together and sing the invitation song.
Consultations and Commendations
I submit this verse unto you that I may: “Render therefore to all their dues: tributes to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; and honor to whom honor, (is due),” Romans 13:7. I acknowledge my consultation with these distinguished authors in this lesson.
References
1. The BlueLetterBible.org (BLB's) Interlinear, Textus Receptus; and the Morphological GNT, Copyright 2022, by the Blue Letter Bible.org. The Greek New Testament is in both manuscripts. http://www.blb.org/. The BLB also provides tutorials to help students of the word of God to learn how to use its application. Link, (www.BLB.org).
2. The Englishman’s Greek New Testament, Textus Receptus, taken from the Greek Text of Stephens 1550, Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan, First Zondervan Printing, 1970. See pages 444-445.
3. The New Greek-English Interlinear New Testament; United Bible Societies,’ Fourth, Corrected Edition, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, IL, 1990. See pages 590-591.
4. The Greek–English Interlinear, ESV New Testament, Published by Crossway, Wheaton, IL 60187, 2018. See pages 716-717.
5. The New Greek/English Interlinear, NRSV, New Testament, United Bible Societies,’ Fifth Revised Edition, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, IL 60188, 2020. See pages 582-583.
6. Greek-English Interlinear CSB New Testament, Holman Bible Publishers, 28th Revised Edition, Christian Standard Bible, One LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 37234, Copyright 2022. See page 590.
7. The People's New Testament, by B. W. Johnson, Christian Publishing Company, Grand Rapids, MI, 1891.
8. Matthew Henry's Complete Commentary on the Bible, by Matthew Henry, Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Grand Rapids, MI, 1706.
9. Clarke Commentary on the Bible, Eight Volumes, published 1810-1826, New York, Published by J. Emory, and B. Waugh, for the Methodist Episcopal Church, at the conference office, 13 Crosby-Street., J. Collord, Printer, 1831.
10. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, by W. E. Vine, Fleming H. Revell Company, Old Tappan, NJ, Copyright, 1981.
11. Smith's Bible Dictionary, William Smith, Grand Rapids, MI: Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Printing 1884.
12. Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary © 2015 by Merriam-Webster, Incorporated; Springfield, Massachusetts, 01105.
13. Merriam-Webster Online Thesaurus © 2015 by Merriam-Webster, Incorporated; Springfield, Massachusetts, 01105.
A word of thanks to BLB.org:
Thank you for this valuable tool of study, BLB.org. It has been an excellent instrument for me to learn and use the Interlinear to bring my sermons alive to the audience. Thank you very much for this great Application to help study the scriptures.
This Bible study tool allows you to access the Greek New Testament in both manuscripts. http://www.blb.org/The BLB also provides tutorials to help you learn how to use it. Link, (www.BLB.org).
Author’s Information
Ron Freeman, Evangelist
Worldwide Ministry Church of Christ.org.
Post Office Box 1112
Anniston, AL 36202
Communications and Websites
Email: ronald.e.freeman@wwmchurchofchrist.org
Email: wwmcoc@earthlink.net
https://wwmchurchofchrist.org/
Website: https://en.gravatar.com/refreeman
Visit and worship with the Church of Christ at Pickensville, AL, every Sunday at 11:00 AM and Wednesday at 6:00 PM. The call-in number is: 1-302-202-1110, Pin # is 214733. These men "know the Shepherd!"
Updated, 5/9/2023, by Ron Freeman, Evangelist
