All people come to the Father by grace alone through faith alone, according to God’s mercy alone. By mercy, not by merit.

Romans 11:25-32

Sermon: "Mercy On All" Date: April 21, 2024 Speaker: Pastor Brian Smith Church: Wildwood Church, East Moline, Illinois

Overview: In this impactful sermon, Pastor Brian Smith explores Romans 11:25-32, focusing on the theme of God's mercy on all. Through a deep dive into these verses, Pastor Brian uncovers the mysteries of God's sovereign plan in salvation and highlights the pivotal role of mercy in our relationship with God.

Key Points:

1. Introduction to Romans Series
   • Recap of the "Foundation" series, emphasizing the doctrine of God's sovereignty.
   • Transition from doctrinal teachings to Christian ethics in chapters 12-16.
2. God's Mercy on All
   • The climax of Paul's doctrinal exposition in Romans.
   • Emphasis on salvation by grace alone through faith alone.
3. The Mystery of Salvation
   • Understanding the partial hardening of Israel and the fullness of the Gentiles.
   • Exploring the temporary nature of Israel's hardening and God's ultimate plan for salvation.
4. Promise of Salvation
   • Assurance that all Israel will be saved: Exploring the future inclusion of ethnic Jews.
   • God's role as the primary agent in salvation, grounded in His covenantal faithfulness.
5. God's Sovereign Work
   • Confidence in God's promise of salvation for Israel.
   • Highlighting the Deliverer's role from Zion in banishing ungodliness.
6. Beloved Enemies
   • Understanding Israel's dual nature: Enemies regarding the Gospel but beloved due to God's covenant.
   • The unchanging nature of God's calling and gifts.
7. By Mercy, Not by Merit
   • Clarifying Paul's message on God's universal mercy while rejecting universalism.
   • Emphasizing salvation through God's mercy and the importance of faith.

Conclusion: In conclusion, Pastor Brian underscores the transformative power of God's mercy in our lives. He emphasizes that salvation is not achieved through merit but is solely a result of God's mercy. This truth leads believers to a life filled with praise and gratitude. The sermon concludes with a hopeful outlook towards the future, anticipating the day when Israel will also experience God's mercy.

Resources:

• Recommended readings on Romans by F.F. Bruce, D.M. Doriani, Kent R. Hughes, Colin G. Kruse, Richard N. Longenecker, John MacArthur, Douglas J. Moo, Robert Mounce, Thomas R. Schreiner, and R.C. Sproul.

Join us next week as we continue our journey through the "Foundation" series. Pastor Brian will guide us through the transition to the "fellowship" section in Romans, offering insights into Christian ethics and practical applications for our daily lives. Don't miss this enriching exploration of God's Word!

#connect4QC #Foundation #Romans #Doctrine #Mercy

When Jesus comes back He’s going to stand upon the mount of Olives, east of Jerusalem, the same place from which He departed. Christian, Israel matters to God and Israel ought to matter to you. We’ve been grafted into the olive tree, from which they’ve been removed, and into which they will be returned. Paul wants us to feel this connection to Israel. It’s a good antidote to Gentile pride. Romans 11:16-24 #connect4QC #Foundation #Romans #Israel #Humility #Pride

Paul was unapologetically taking the gospel to the Gentile world. But had he forgotten about the Jews? Were they abandoned? Not at all! Paul went to the Gentiles in hopes that doing so would cause some of his Jewish kinsmen to want the blessings of God that they received and in turn, would come to Jesus in faith and repentance.

Podcast Show Notes: Provoked to Jealousy, Provoked to Life

Introduction:

• Title: "Provoked to Jealousy, Provoked to Life"
• Sermon Date: April 7, 2024
• Speaker: Pastor Brian Smith
• Scripture: Romans 11:11-15
• Location: Wildwood Church, East Moline, Illinois

Overview:

• Paul's mission to the Gentiles and concern for the Jews.
• The purpose of Gentile salvation: to provoke Israel to jealousy and ultimately to life.
• A journey through Romans 11:11-15, exploring the implications of Israel's rejection and future acceptance.

Key Points:

1. Will Israel Fall Forever?

• Explanation of Romans 11:11: Israel's stumble opens doors for the Gentiles.
• Despite Israel's stumble, their ultimate end is not falling away.
• Through their trespass, salvation came to the Gentiles, making Israel jealous.

2. Their Trespass, Our Salvation

• Israel's rejection of Jesus led to the Gentiles' salvation.
• Gentiles now enjoy the blessings once reserved for Israel.
• Paul's ministry aimed to provoke Jews to jealousy and save some of them.

3. To Make Israel Jealous

• The reversal of blessings: Gentiles receive what was once Israel's.
• Paul's ministry magnified to provoke Jews to desire God's blessings.

4. How Much More!

• Israel's rejection resulted in blessings for the world.
• The full inclusion of Israel will bring even greater blessings.

5. Life from the Dead

• Israel's acceptance will lead to reconciliation and life.
• Debate over the meaning of "life from the dead": physical resurrection or spiritual renewal.
• The ultimate victory of Christ and eternal life for believers.

Implications for Today:

• Christians should live lives that provoke others to jealousy and to life.
• Recognizing the blessings received through Israel's rejection should motivate us to share the gospel fervently.
• A call to embody the transformative power of the Gospel in our lives.

Conclusion:

• The ultimate triumph of Christ and the invitation to share in His victory.
• Encouragement to live lives that reflect God's grace and provoke others to life.
• A prayer for God's help in provoking people to life through our words and actions.

Bibliography:

• Reference materials used in the sermon's preparation from various scholars and commentators, including F.F. Bruce, John MacArthur, Douglas J. Moo, and others.

Closing:

• Acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and the hope of eternal life in Christ.
• Invitation for listeners to reflect on their role in sharing the gospel and living lives that provoke others to life.

Ever wonder why we’re drawn to rescue stories? From Hollywood blockbusters to real-life heroics, these tales resonate with us because they echo a truth written into our souls. We love a good rescue story because we were made to long for the ultimate rescue and the ultimate Rescuer, Jesus!

• Introduction:
  • We're captivated by rescue stories in movies and real life.
  • There's a deeper reason behind our fascination: we're wired to long for ultimate rescue.
  • The sermon delves into why we resonate with these tales and how they echo the ultimate Rescue Story found in Jesus Christ.
• The Inherent Longing for Rescue:
  • From Hollywood to history, stories of rescue tug at our hearts.
  • Genesis 3:15 promises a Rescuer, echoing through human history.
  • We're drawn to rescue tales because we're designed to yearn for the ultimate Rescuer, Jesus.
• The Gospel as the Ultimate Rescue Story:
  • Jesus fulfills the promise of a Rescuer by dying for us while we were still in sin.
  • His death, burial, and resurrection form the core of our rescue from sin and separation from God.
  • Through Jesus, we receive forgiveness, reconciliation, and a new identity.
• The Significance of Jesus' Death, Burial, and Resurrection:
  • Jesus' death on the cross pays the price for our sins, offering us forgiveness and reconciliation with God.
  • His burial symbolizes the putting away of our old selves.
  • His resurrection gives us hope for new life and a restored relationship with God.
• Conclusion:
  • The Gospel is the ultimate Rescue Story, offering hope, forgiveness, and new life.
  • Let's celebrate and share this story of redemption and rescue with the world.
  • Our longing for rescue finds fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the ultimate Rescuer.
• Action Steps:
  • Reflect on your own story of rescue and redemption in light of the Gospel.
  • Share the hope of the ultimate Rescue Story with others who need to hear it.
  • Live out the reality of your new identity in Christ, rejoicing in the salvation and transformation He offers.

Romans 5:6-11

#UltimateRescuer #JesusSaves #RescueStory #GospelHope #NewIdentity #EternalLife #Easter2024

Watch the video here: https://wildwoodchurch.com/messages/rescue-romans-5-6-11/

Summary: What began on Palm Sunday with shouts of celebration and triumph ended with unbelief. Sadly, not much had changed for Israel over the few decades that would follow. In today’s passage in Romans 11, Paul sheds light the unbelief of Israel in his day and in ours.

Romans 11:7-10

#connect4QC #Foundation #Romans #Grace #Faith #Unbelief #PalmSunday

Introduction:

• Reflecting on the triumphal entry of Jesus on Palm Sunday, Pastor Brian Smith highlights the stark contrast between celebration and unbelief.
• Drawing from John 12:12-40, he illuminates how Israel's initial jubilation turned into rejection, setting the stage for Paul's discourse in Romans 11.

At a Glance:

• Unpack the narrative of Israel's unbelief in the context of Paul's letter to the Romans.
• Gain insights into the spiritual dynamics behind Israel's rejection of Jesus despite witnessing miraculous signs.

Romans 11:7-10:

• Analyze Paul's exposition on Israel's failure to obtain righteousness and the hardening of hearts.
• Explore the implications of God's mercy and judgment, as well as the role of grace in salvation.

A Hard Saying:

• Grapple with the profound truths regarding God's sovereignty and human responsibility.
• Embrace humility in understanding the inscrutable ways of God's justice, as articulated by Paul.

Two Witnesses:

• Examine the prophetic references from Isaiah and Deuteronomy, shedding light on Israel's spiritual blindness.
• Uncover the significance of God's warnings throughout Scripture and their relevance to Israel's rejection of Jesus.

What Should They Have Seen?:

• Reflect on Jesus' teachings regarding spiritual discernment and the simplicity of faith.
• Contrast Israel's prideful rejection of grace with the humble reception exemplified by Jesus' disciples.

A Snare and A Trap:

• Investigate the prophetic judgment pronounced upon Israel, as depicted in Psalm 69.
• Consider the sobering implications of misusing Scripture for self-righteousness and neglecting the message of redemption.

The Word of God as Judge:

• Grasp the dual nature of Scripture as both a witness to salvation and a testimony of judgment.
• Reflect on Jesus' warnings against spiritual blindness and the necessity of responding to His message with faith.

A Modern-Day Warning:

• Apply the lessons from Israel's unbelief to contemporary attitudes toward Scripture and salvation.
• Embrace the call to genuine faith and humility in approaching the Word of God.

Conclusion:

• Revisit the tragic irony of Palm Sunday and its enduring relevance for believers today.
• Encouragement to heed God's voice and guard against hardening our hearts, embracing the path of faith and obedience.

Closing Note: Dive deep into the complexities of Israel's unbelief and discover timeless truths applicable to your faith journey today. Join Pastor Brian Smith as he navigates through Romans 11:7-10, unraveling the mysteries of God's mercy, judgment, and the call to genuine faith.

Pastor Brian Smith delves into Romans 11:1-6, exploring the profound concept of God's sovereign preservation of a remnant chosen by grace. As the world grows darker and evil seems to prevail, it's easy to feel discouraged and isolated in our faith. However, Pastor Brian reminds us that throughout history, God has always preserved a faithful remnant, even amid widespread apostasy. Drawing parallels between the struggles of the early Church and our present-day challenges, he emphasizes the timeless truth that salvation is not based on works but on God's unmerited favor. Join us as we uncover the comforting assurance that even in our darkest moments, we are held secure by God's sovereign hand.

Key Points Covered:

• The reassurance that God has not rejected His people, despite appearances.
• Understanding the concept of God's foreknowledge and its implications for salvation.
• Drawing parallels between the struggles of biblical figures like Elijah and contemporary challenges faced by believers.
• Exploring the biblical truth of a faithful remnant chosen by grace throughout history.
• Emphasizing the foundational principle that salvation is solely by grace, not by works.
• Encouragement for listeners facing discouragement and disillusionment in their faith journey.

Scripture References:

• Romans 11:1-6
• Acts 8:1; 1 Samuel 12:22; Psalm 94:14, 105:8-10; Acts 7:51-53; Romans 6:1, 9:6, 9:15-16, 9:21, 9:27; Isaiah 10:22; Romans 1:16, 10:2-3, 10:13; Acts 2, 4

Additional Information:

• Date of Sermon: March 17, 2024
• Speaker: Pastor Brian Smith
• Church: Wildwood Church, East Moline, Illinois

Paul gives an incredible picture of what it looks like for sinners to hear the gospel, believe, and call on the name of Jesus for salvation in Romans 10:14-15. But what about those who hear the gospel but do not believe? Romans 10:16-21 goes on to emphasize the hearing of the truth, though not all will believe. The church has a responsibility as messengers of the gospel that will be taken seriously only when we grieve over those who are still dead in their sin as we once were.

There are so many people spiritually stranded, helpless, and alone, in need of spiritual rescue. Who will they call to rescue them? How will they call upon the name of Jesus for salvation if they’ve never heard the name of Jesus and they’ve never heard what He did for them? Who will tell them? These are the questions Paul presents us with in Romans 10:14-15.

#GreatCommission #ShareTheGospel #FaithInAction

Description:

In a moment of vulnerability on a remote road, Kellye's (Pastor Brian's Wife) flat tire sparks a tale of rescue that parallels the spiritual rescue needed by many. Join us as we reflect on this experience and its profound lessons, drawing parallels to the global need for salvation and the urgency of sharing the gospel.

Key Points:

• Desperation and Rescue: Kellye's call for help on the roadside mirrors humanity's cry for spiritual rescue.
• The Call for Salvation: How can people call on Jesus if they've never heard of Him? The importance of preaching the gospel.
• Commissioned to Preach: Just as Paul was sent to proclaim the gospel, every believer is commissioned to share the good news.
• The Authority of Jesus: Jesus' authority empowers believers to fulfill the Great Commission, regardless of age, circumstance, or location.
• Stewardship of Health and Prayer: Even if unable to physically go, believers can support missions through prayer and stewardship of health.
• The Power of Prayer: Stories of mission expansion through prayer highlight its crucial role in global evangelism.
• Being a Faithful Sender: Whether going or sending, every believer plays a vital role in bringing the gospel to the nations.

Resources Mentioned:

Romans 10:13-15

Acts 13:1-3; Romans 1:4-5; Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 1:8

"Why Pray" by John DeVries

Summary: No matter how hard we try, you and I can never live a perfect life. We cannot stand before God on our own merit. Thankfully, there is another way to stand in the day of God’s judgment. And it’s not by doing all sorts of things to elevate ourselves to heaven. Paul tells us in this passage that it is not at all about what we do for God, but what God has done in Christ for us! Romans 10:5-13 #connect4QC #Foundation #Romans #Grace #NotWorks #Trust #JesusChrist

Key Points:

1. Human inability to attain righteousness through obedience to the law.
2. The contrast between righteousness based on the law and righteousness based on faith in Christ.
3. The necessity of confessing with one's mouth and believing in one's heart for salvation.
4. Salvation as a gift of grace through faith in Jesus Christ's finished work.
5. The universal availability of salvation to all who believe, regardless of background.

Key Bible Verses:

• Romans 10:9: "because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."
• Romans 10:13: "For 'everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.'"

Main Message: Salvation is not about our efforts to obey the law but about trusting in Jesus Christ and His work for our righteousness. Confessing Jesus as Lord and believing in His resurrection are the foundational steps to salvation, which is available to all who believe, regardless of their past or background.

To those who continue to seek to establish their own righteousness, may I invite you to cease? May I invite you to rest in Christ? May I invite you to take up the yoke of Christ whose burden is easy and yoke is light, because He has finished the work of righteousness for you. May I invite you to humble yourself before the Lord, to lean no longer upon your own virtue, your own sense of goodness, and trust wholeheartedly in His? You will know the Truth and the Truth will set you free. Romans 10:1-4 #connect4QC #Foundation #Romans #Works #Faith #Gospel #Grace #BelieveInJesus

Introduction:

• Pastor Brian Smith discusses a recent Super Bowl commercial portraying Jesus washing feet, expressing disappointment in its missed opportunity to share the full gospel message.
• The commercial reflects a common trend of virtue-signaling without acknowledging the depth of sin and the need for salvation through Christ.

Passage: Romans 10:1-4

• Paul's heartfelt desire and prayer for the salvation of his kinsmen, the Israelites.
• Recognition of their zeal for God but lack of saving knowledge.
• Ignorance of God's righteousness leading to the pursuit of self-righteousness.

Key Points:

1. Zeal Without Saving Knowledge:
   • The danger of sincere but misguided zeal, divorced from a true understanding of God's righteousness.
   • Emphasis on the importance of genuine, transformative knowledge of Christ.
2. Seeking to Establish Own Righteousness:
   • The folly of attempting to earn righteousness through works, rather than submitting to God's righteousness.
   • The human tendency to lower God's standard of righteousness and elevate one's own achievements.
3. All Have Sinned:
   • Confronting the uncomfortable truth that all are sinners in need of God's grace, despite the desire for self-righteousness.
   • Accepting the gift of righteousness through faith in Christ, rather than relying on personal merit.
4. The End of the Law:
   • Understanding Christ as both the goal and fulfillment of the Law, offering salvation to all who believe.
   • The transformative power of Christ's righteousness imputed to believers.

Points of Application:

1. Zeal Without Knowledge:
   • Examining the motives behind acts of virtue and ensuring they stem from a genuine relationship with Christ.
   • Guarding against pride and self-righteousness in service to God.
2. Missional Zeal:
   • Desiring and praying for the salvation of all, regardless of their current state or actions.
   • Rejecting fatalism and apathy, and actively participating in sharing the gospel with others.
3. The Sacred Task, Our Delightful Duty:
   • Embracing the responsibility to proclaim the gospel to all, even amidst potential suffering or rejection.
   • Recognizing the privilege of participating in God's work of salvation.

Conclusion:

• Invitation to cease striving for self-righteousness and instead trust fully in Christ's finished work.
• Encouragement to confront pride and embrace humility before God.
• Reminder that true freedom is found in knowing and embracing the Truth of Christ.

Bibliography: