The Hinge of Christianity
Pastor: Shane Whelan Series: The Hinge of Christianity Scripture: Romans 3:19–31
The Hinge of Christianity
How can we know that we are saved? Have we done enough or been good enough to go to heaven? These questions can often cause worry or doubt in the lives of people. Yet, they are questions that need to be answered. Five hundred-plus years ago, these questions plagued Martin Luther for many years, and it was not until the Holy Spirit revealed to him that salvation was based upon the finished work of Christ. No one is good enough, and no one can earn their salvation, but by grace through faith, we can stand before a holy God. The doctrine of justification is the hinge of Christianity, and it was a major part of the Reformation that spread through Europe. This Sunday, Romans 3:19-31 will remind and teach us that we can have a wonderful assurance of salvation when we look by faith to Christ alone, and His righteousness becomes our righteousness.
As we gather to bring glory to God alone on this Reformation Sunday, we will join our hearts in song, singing the Processional Hymn “O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing,” the Acclamation of Praise “My Hope is Built on Nothing Less,” and the Hymn of Response “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God.” Let us come to worship this Sunday prepared to hear God’s Word, to receive it in faith, to love and treasure it in our hearts, and to practice it in our lives so that we may continue to glorify and enjoy Him!
A Liturgical Note:
As you will notice this Sunday the paraments have changed from green to red, indicating our celebration of Reformation Sunday. The Reformation was sparked when Martin Luther, a German Monk, nailed his Ninety-Five Theses to the church door in Wittenburg on October 31, 1517. This document outlined his objections to the Roman Catholic practice of selling indulgences. However, this one act of protest leads to a broad movement to reform the Church according to God’s Word alone. As Presbyterians, we trace our theological heritage to the great themes of the Reformation: Salvation by Grace Alone; Through Faith Alone; By Christ Alone; According to the Word of God Alone; All to the Glory of God Alone.
Sermon Information:
Romans 3:19-31
Title: The Hinge of Christianity
1. The Necessity of Justification (vs. 19-23)
2. The Purpose of Justification (vs. 24-26)
3. The Result of Justification (vs. 27-31)