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Cornerstone Connection

Christian talk radio with Gary Hamrick

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Broadcast Episode

Thursday, June 26

Cornerstone Connection: The Heart of the Gospel

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Broadcast Episode Summary

The concept of salvation through faith is central to understanding the gospel message. This article highlights key insights that emphasize the importance of faith in Jesus Christ for achieving righteousness.

  • Recognize the bad news of sin and accountability to God, which sets the stage for appreciating the good news of salvation.
  • Understand that righteousness comes solely through faith in Jesus, not by obeying the law or performing good works.
  • Embrace the example of Abraham, whose faith was credited as righteousness before the law existed, demonstrating that belief is key to salvation.
  • Realize that Jesus is the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, revealing God’s plan for salvation through faith.
  • Trust in Christ’s righteousness allows believers to live with assurance, free from the burden of earning their standing before God.

Understanding Salvation Through Faith

The message is clear: salvation through faith is at the heart of the gospel. As he teaches through the book of Romans, he emphasizes that our righteousness does not come from obeying the law but through belief in Jesus Christ. This vital truth is woven throughout the scriptures, revealing the deep connection between faith and salvation.

The Bad News Before the Good News

Before diving into the good news, it is essential to understand the bad news presented in the first two and a half chapters of Romans. Paul highlights that we are all accountable to God and that all have sinned and fall short of God’s glory. Despite what the world may say about the inherent goodness of people, the Bible paints a different picture: humanity is in need of a savior.

Recognizing our sinful nature prepares our hearts to appreciate the good news of salvation through faith. Paul emphasizes this transition with the words “but now,” marking the shift from the bad news of guilt and sin to the amazing grace offered through Jesus Christ. Understanding that we cannot earn our righteousness through works is vital to truly grasping the message of the gospel.

The Role of Faith in Salvation

At the core of salvation through faith lies the understanding that righteousness is a gift from God. In Romans 3:22, Paul states, “even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ to all and on all who believe.” This underscores the importance of faith over works. It is not our actions that make us righteous but our belief in Jesus and what He has accomplished for us.

Faith is described as belief, trust, and reliance on God. It is about embracing who God is and the promises He makes, especially concerning salvation. Just like Abraham, who is referenced in chapter four of Romans, our righteousness is credited to us because we believe, not because we fulfill the law. Abraham’s faith, long before the law was established, serves as a model for all who seek to be justified before God.

Embracing the Good News

The good news of salvation through faith is transformative. It invites everyone, regardless of their past or their adherence to the law, to receive God’s grace. Jesus is revealed throughout the Old Testament and fulfilled in the New Testament, showcasing that He is the central figure in God’s plan for salvation. The law’s role is not to condemn but to point us to our need for a savior.

As believers, understanding that we are justified by faith allows us to live with assurance and hope. We do not need to rely on our performance or worthiness. Instead, we can trust in the righteousness of Christ, knowing that it is through faith that we are saved. This truth not only builds our foundation in Christ but also empowers us to share the message of salvation with others.

In conclusion, salvation through faith is a profound and liberating truth. It reminds us that we are loved, accepted, and justified before God not by our efforts but by our faith in Jesus Christ. As Pastor Gary shares, let us embrace this good news and allow it to transform our lives.

Conclusion

Salvation through faith is a powerful truth that underscores the core message of the gospel. By recognizing our sinful nature and our accountability to God, we can truly appreciate the grace offered through faith in Jesus Christ. This message emphasizes that righteousness is not earned through the law but is a gift received through belief in Him. Just as Abraham was justified by faith, so too are we when we trust in Jesus. This understanding liberates us from the pressure of performance and allows us to live confidently in our relationship with God. Embrace the good news of salvation through faith and share this transformative truth with others. How will this message impact your faith journey?

Originally published as “Cornerstone Connection: The Heart of the Gospel” from Cornerstone Connection.

About Cornerstone Connection

Cornerstone Connection is the radio ministry of Gary Hamrick, pastor of Cornerstone Chapel in Leesburg, VA. It is Pastor Gary’s desire to teach God’s Word in a practical, relevant way that reaches listeners with the life-changing good news of Jesus Christ.

Cornerstone Connection is the radio ministry of Gary Hamrick, pastor of Cornerstone Chapel in Leesburg, VA. It is Pastor Gary’s desire to teach God’s Word in a practical, relevant way that reaches listeners with the life-changing good news of Jesus Christ.

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