What does the Bible teach about obedience? Is our obedience something we do in order to justify ourselves? What do we learn from Abraham about his faithfulness to God? As we continue through the book of Romans, Paul is slowly revealing to us that our works of obedience do not make us righteous before God. In Romans 4, he unpacks this by explaining that it was Abraham’s faith in God and belief in His promises that justified him. 

So, how does this look for us today? Since we are on the other side of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection, we are looking back at all of the promises that God has fulfilled. But, this doesn’t change the fact that our faith in God and belief in His promises is also what justifies us. The difference for us is that we now know it is the righteousness of God in Christ that we can rest in as our justification.

In this episode of Real Christianity, pastor Dale Partridge walks us through the difference between obedience and legalism, as Paul explains in Romans 4:1-3 how our faith is counted to us as righteousness.

Romans 4:1-3: The Difference Between Obedience and Legalism

Each week pastor Dale Partridge offers 10-15-minute answers to difficult theological and pastoral questions.

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In today's episode, we're delving deeper into our ongoing series on postmillennialism. Specifically, we'll be exploring the fascinating realm of Kingdom parables. If you've been following along, you'll know that this is part five of our series. In earlier episodes, we tackled topics like pessimistic eschatology and the gospel's impact on society. We even discussed the gradual salvation of the world. Today, we're continuing our exploration of the parables, focusing on two pivotal Kingdom parables and their implications for a postmillennial perspective. So, get ready for another insightful discussion as we unravel the mysteries of these parables and their significance in shaping our worldview.

Part 5: Postmillennialism and the Kingdom Parables

In this episode of Real Christianity, host Dale Partridge continues the captivating exploration of optimistic eschatology. With three insightful episodes already behind us, Dale guides listeners through a profound discussion on the triumph of Christ versus the gradualism of God. Unveiling the concept that the resurrection of Christ will outpace and outperform the fall of Adam, this episode promises to ignite thought and reflection on the victorious nature of Christ's redemption. Join us as we delve into this compelling conversation, offering fresh insights into the unparalleled victory found in Christ.

Part 4: How God Gradually Saves the World

In this episode of Real Christianity, Pastor Dale Partridge discusses how the gospel doesn’t only shape spiritual matters, but also societal matters.

Part 3: How the Gospel Ought to Shape Society

Welcome to part 2 of our discussion on The Paralysis of Pessimistic Eschatology. In this episode, we explore the fascinating realm of architecture, drawing a captivating parallel between the monumental cathedrals of the past, constructed over centuries for the greater good, and the contemporary trend of investing only a fraction of that time in building churches. Consider, for a moment, the mindset required to initiate a project that your great-great-great-grandchildren might witness completed. It's a testament to kingdom thinking and a reflection on what it means to contribute to something enduring for the greater good, beyond our immediate influence. Join us as we unravel the significance of these majestic cathedrals as pieces of architecture that communicate far beyond their physical structure.

Part 2: The Paralysis of Pessimistic Eschatology

In today's episode, we embark on a series exploring the dichotomy between pessimistic eschatology and optimistic eschatology. Let's clarify that when we use the term "pessimistic eschatology," it's an academic expression rather than a judgment on individuals as pessimists. This perspective centers on the belief in a progressive moral decline, positing that the world will deteriorate morally over time. It's not an indictment of those with a negative outlook; it's an exploration of theological viewpoints. Additionally, we'll be discussing the concept of Dominion, drawing from the Genesis 1:28 Dominion mandate: "Be fruitful and multiply, fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and every living thing that moves on the earth." Join us as we navigate these nuanced topics in today's episode.

Romans 4:1-3: The Difference Between Obedience and Legalism

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