Boasting on SermonAudio

Proverbs 27:1 Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.

The sermon explores the theological relationship between Israel and the Church through the olive tree metaphor in Romans 11, emphasizing that Gentiles are grafted into the Abrahamic covenant by grace rather than boasting against the natural branches. By cross-referencing Ephesians 2, the message highlights the transition from being dead in trespasses and strangers to the commonwealth of Israel to becoming fellow citizens of God through the blood of Christ. The central theme warns against spiritual pride, reminding believers that their standing is maintained solely by faith and the nourishment of the root, not by their own works. The discourse concludes with the assurance that God's covenants with Israel are irrevocable, promising that the natural branches will be restored when the fullness of the Gentiles comes in, ultimately pointing to the future kingdom and the fulfillment of the New Covenant.

This sermon expounds on Ephesians 2:1-10 to articulate the Reformed doctrine of election and the necessity of divine grace in salvation. It emphasizes that humanity is spiritually dead in trespasses and sins, under the dominion of Satan, and naturally opposed to God, rendering human effort or will insufficient for redemption. The central message highlights that God, in His sovereign mercy, quickens the elect through the Holy Spirit, raising them to sit with Christ in heavenly places solely by grace and not of works. The preacher argues that even faith is a gift from God, ensuring that no human can boast, and that this salvation is intended to produce a life of good works ordained by God. The tone is both convicting regarding the hopelessness of the natural state and deeply comforting regarding the infinite, unmerited love of God that secures the believer's eternal destiny.

This sermon examines Psalm 52 to contrast the temporary nature of human evil with the enduring goodness of God. It challenges believers to recognize that the prosperity and power of the wicked are fleeting, urging them not to view evil as established or permanent. By cross-referencing Isaiah 66, the message affirms that the righteous will ultimately witness the judgment of the wicked in eternity, experiencing a profound role reversal where the oppressed laugh at the oppressor. The central call is to trust in God's mercy and justice, shifting focus from the prevalence of evil to the assurance of divine vindication. Believers are encouraged to dwell on God's goodness and praise Him, knowing that He will bring justice in His appointed time.

Q: How does freedom from the law produce a life of practical righteousness rather than moral lawlessness? A: The Spirit produces Christlike character in those who belong to Christ, enabling them to walk in loving service, put the flesh to death, and live in genuine righteousness without returning to the bondage of the law.

The Gospel of God - Message 28 - Where Then Is Boasting? - Romans 3:27-31. Salvation by grace through faith, apart from the works of the Law, removes every opportunity we have to boast in ourselves! Our only boast must be in the cross of Christ!