Standing Firm in Faith: Lessons from the Reformation

 

Summary

In reflecting on the profound truths of the Protestant Reformation, we are reminded of Martin Luther's pivotal role in recovering the doctrine of justification by faith alone. This doctrine asserts that the righteousness by which we are justified before God is not our own but is the righteousness of Jesus Christ, imputed to us through faith. Luther's steadfastness in this belief led to significant controversies, culminating in his trial at the Diet of Worms, where he famously refused to recant his views unless convinced by Scripture or reason. His declaration, "Here I stand, I can do no other," echoes the call for Christians to stand firm in their faith, even amidst trials and temptations.

The discussion on the Lord's Prayer, particularly the phrase "lead us not into temptation," highlights the dual nature of testing and temptation. While God does not tempt us to sin, He allows tests to refine and strengthen our faith. These tests reveal our knowledge, ignorance, and the areas where we need growth. The distinction between resisting Satan and fleeing temptation is crucial; we are called to resist the devil, who will flee from us, but to flee from situations that lead us into sin.

Understanding the difference between conviction by the Holy Spirit and accusations by Satan is vital for spiritual growth. Conviction leads to repentance and restoration, while Satan's accusations aim to burden us with guilt and shame. The Holy Spirit draws us to Christ, reminding us of our forgiveness and the assurance of our salvation. In moments of doubt, whether about our salvation or the existence of God, we are encouraged to turn to faith, which acts as a shield against doubt, trusting in the promises of God.

The sovereignty of God in salvation, particularly the doctrine of election, often raises questions about human responsibility. While some may struggle with this doctrine, it is essential to understand that God's sovereignty does not negate our responsibility to respond to the gospel. Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved, and this truth should drive our evangelism and missions.

Finally, navigating ethical dilemmas in the workplace requires wisdom and courage. Upholding biblical principles, even when faced with potential job loss, is a testament to our faith. We are called to engage with the world wisely, grounded in the fear of the Lord, and to stand firm in our convictions, trusting God to guide us through challenges.

Key Takeaways:

- Justification by faith alone is central to our understanding of salvation. It is not our righteousness but Christ's righteousness imputed to us that justifies us before God. This truth calls us to stand firm in our faith, even when faced with trials and temptations. [27:05]

- The phrase "lead us not into temptation" in the Lord's Prayer highlights the distinction between God's testing and Satan's temptation. We are to resist the devil and flee from situations that lead us into sin, trusting that God's tests are meant to refine and strengthen us. [31:01]

- Conviction by the Holy Spirit leads to repentance and restoration, while Satan's accusations aim to burden us with guilt and shame. Understanding this difference is crucial for spiritual growth and assurance of our salvation. [36:10]

- The doctrine of election emphasizes God's sovereignty in salvation, yet it does not negate human responsibility. Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved, and this truth should motivate our evangelism and missions. [55:13]

- Navigating ethical dilemmas in the workplace requires wisdom and courage. Upholding biblical principles, even at the risk of job loss, is a testament to our faith. We must engage with the world wisely, grounded in the fear of the Lord, and stand firm in our convictions. [07:13]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [27:05] - Justification by Faith Alone
- [27:59] - Luther's Stand at the Diet of Worms
- [28:57] - Introduction to Q&A Session
- [31:01] - Understanding Temptation and Testing
- [35:48] - Conviction vs. Accusation
- [45:20] - Doubt and Assurance of Salvation
- [55:13] - Sovereignty of God and Human Responsibility
- [07:13] - Ethical Dilemmas in the Workplace
- [14:19] - Closing Remarks and Book Recommendations

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
1. Romans 1:17 - "For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, 'The righteous shall live by faith.'"
2. James 1:13-14 - "Let no one say when he is tempted, 'I am being tempted by God,' for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire."
3. Romans 10:13 - "For 'everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.'"

Observation Questions:
1. What was Martin Luther's stance at the Diet of Worms, and how did it reflect his commitment to Scripture? ([28:19])
2. How does the sermon distinguish between God's testing and Satan's temptation? ([32:50])
3. What are the differences between conviction by the Holy Spirit and accusations by Satan as discussed in the sermon? ([36:10])
4. How does the doctrine of election relate to human responsibility according to the sermon? ([55:13])

Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the doctrine of justification by faith alone challenge or affirm your understanding of salvation? Consider how this doctrine was pivotal during the Reformation. ([27:05])
2. In what ways can understanding the difference between testing and temptation help a believer grow in their faith? ([32:50])
3. How can recognizing the difference between conviction and accusation impact a believer's spiritual growth and assurance of salvation? ([36:10])
4. How does the sermon suggest believers should navigate ethical dilemmas in the workplace while maintaining their faith? ([07:13])

Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a recent situation where you faced a trial or temptation. How did you respond, and what might you do differently in light of the sermon’s teaching on testing and temptation? ([32:50])
2. Have you ever experienced feelings of guilt or shame that you later recognized as accusations from Satan? How did you overcome them, and what steps can you take to ensure you respond with faith in the future? ([36:10])
3. How can you actively stand firm in your faith like Martin Luther, especially when faced with challenges or opposition? ([28:19])
4. In what ways can you engage in evangelism or missions, knowing that everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved? ([55:13])
5. Consider an ethical dilemma you might face at work. How can you prepare to uphold biblical principles in that situation, even if it risks your job? ([07:13])
6. How can you cultivate a deeper understanding of God’s sovereignty and human responsibility in your daily walk with Christ? ([55:13])
7. Identify a specific area in your life where you need to trust God more fully. What practical steps can you take this week to grow in that trust? ([46:47])

Devotional

Day 1: Justification by Faith Alone: Christ's Righteousness Imputed to Us
The doctrine of justification by faith alone is a cornerstone of Christian belief, emphasizing that it is not our own righteousness but the righteousness of Jesus Christ that justifies us before God. This profound truth, recovered during the Protestant Reformation by Martin Luther, underscores the importance of faith in receiving Christ's righteousness. Luther's unwavering commitment to this doctrine, even in the face of significant opposition, serves as a powerful reminder for Christians to stand firm in their faith amidst trials and temptations. His famous declaration at the Diet of Worms, "Here I stand, I can do no other," calls believers to hold steadfastly to their convictions, trusting in the sufficiency of Christ's work for their salvation. [27:05]

"For by works of the law no human being will be justified in his sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin. But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it—the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe." (Romans 3:20-22, ESV)

Reflection: In what areas of your life do you find yourself relying on your own righteousness rather than trusting in the righteousness of Christ? How can you shift your focus to faith in His finished work today?


Day 2: God's Testing vs. Satan's Temptation: A Call to Discernment
The phrase "lead us not into temptation" from the Lord's Prayer highlights the distinction between God's testing and Satan's temptation. While God allows tests to refine and strengthen our faith, He does not tempt us to sin. These tests are opportunities for growth, revealing areas of knowledge and ignorance, and highlighting where we need to mature. Understanding the difference between resisting Satan and fleeing temptation is crucial; we are called to resist the devil, who will flee from us, but to flee from situations that lead us into sin. This discernment is vital for spiritual growth and resilience in the face of trials. [31:01]

"Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. Let no one say when he is tempted, 'I am being tempted by God,' for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one." (James 1:12-13, ESV)

Reflection: Identify a situation in your life where you are facing a test or temptation. How can you discern whether it is a test from God or a temptation from Satan, and what steps can you take to respond appropriately?


Day 3: Conviction vs. Accusation: Embracing the Holy Spirit's Guidance
Understanding the difference between conviction by the Holy Spirit and accusations by Satan is vital for spiritual growth. Conviction leads to repentance and restoration, drawing us closer to Christ and reminding us of our forgiveness and the assurance of our salvation. In contrast, Satan's accusations aim to burden us with guilt and shame, hindering our spiritual progress. In moments of doubt, whether about our salvation or the existence of God, we are encouraged to turn to faith, which acts as a shield against doubt, trusting in the promises of God. This understanding empowers believers to embrace the Holy Spirit's guidance and reject the enemy's lies. [36:10]

"And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment: concerning sin, because they do not believe in me; concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer; concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged." (John 16:8-11, ESV)

Reflection: Reflect on a recent experience where you felt either conviction or accusation. How can you distinguish between the two, and how will you respond to the Holy Spirit's conviction in your life today?


Day 4: Sovereignty and Responsibility: A Balanced View of Salvation
The doctrine of election emphasizes God's sovereignty in salvation, yet it does not negate human responsibility. While some may struggle with this doctrine, it is essential to understand that God's sovereignty and human responsibility coexist. Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved, and this truth should motivate our evangelism and missions. Believers are called to share the gospel with others, trusting that God is at work in drawing people to Himself. This balanced view encourages Christians to actively participate in God's redemptive plan while resting in His sovereign will. [55:13]

"Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure." (Philippians 2:12-13, ESV)

Reflection: How does understanding both God's sovereignty and your responsibility in salvation influence your approach to sharing the gospel? What practical steps can you take to engage in evangelism and missions this week?


Day 5: Ethical Dilemmas: Standing Firm in Biblical Principles
Navigating ethical dilemmas in the workplace requires wisdom and courage. Upholding biblical principles, even when faced with potential job loss, is a testament to our faith. Christians are called to engage with the world wisely, grounded in the fear of the Lord, and to stand firm in their convictions. This involves seeking God's guidance in decision-making and trusting Him to provide and protect as we honor Him in our professional lives. By doing so, believers demonstrate the transformative power of the gospel and serve as a witness to those around them. [07:13]

"Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out. The integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them." (Proverbs 10:9, ESV)

Reflection: Think of a current or past ethical dilemma you have faced in the workplace. How can you apply biblical principles to navigate this situation, and what steps will you take to stand firm in your convictions?

Quotes


one of the central cries of the Protestant Reformation was this the just shall live by faith Luther's development of the doctrine of justification by faith alone recovered the gospel that had been hidden during the Middle Ages and at the center of that gospel is the affirmation that the righteousness by which we are declared just before a holy God is not our own it's a foreign righteousness an alien righteousness a righteousness that Luther said is extra nose apart from us namely it's the righteousness of Jesus Christ that righteousness that is imputed or counted for all who put their trust in him [00:26:50]

Luther was involved in serious controversies controversies that culminated and his being brought to trial before the princes of the church and even before the emperor of the Holy Roman Empire Charles V and there at the diet of warmth summoned in Germany Luther was called upon to recant his views he answered his interlocutors by saying revocal you want me to say revoco that I recant I will not recant unless I'm convinced by sacred scripture or by evident reason I cannot recant from my conscience is held captive by the word of God and to act against conscience is neither right nor safe here I stand [00:27:46]

The phrase "lead us not into temptation" in the Lord's Prayer highlights the distinction between God's testing and Satan's temptation. We are to resist the devil and flee from situations that lead us into sin, trusting that God's tests are meant to refine and strengthen us. God uses testing, and by the way, God sovereignly can even take that which the World the Flesh and the devil would use to ensnare us he can use that in his Sovereign hand to yet disciple us and develop us but we are to flee Temptation [00:32:01]

Christians make a I think a big mistake in this area in that we resist we resist temptation and flee Satan and I think the Bible would have us do the opposite the Bible does not want us to flee Satan the Bible wants us to resist Satan and he will flee from us but that which is designed to ensnare us into sin we are to flee that Temptation and pursue the environment of Holiness and the means of Grace that build us up [00:33:16]

when we're convicted by the spirit of God we bleed repentance when the spirit of God convicts us we repent we seek restoration we seek reconciliation we repent we confess we consecrate ourselves to a new way of life Satan's accusations the fundamental difference is that his accusations aren't true someone has said that God knows our sin and he but he calls us by our names Satan knows our names but he calls us by our sin [00:36:44]

Satan will often do at least in my life after I've asked forgiveness for a sin to the Lord to a friend to a loved one to my wife to my children is what Satan will want to do then is just beat me up and make me want to just wallow in the mire of guilt and shame and make me just feel miserable and I have to run to the Lord and pray to the Lord that he would give me the joy and the feeling of Freedom knowing that I've been forgiven [00:37:58]

if we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins you know for the longest time it was kind of like I would keep coming back and saying to the Lord Lord you know I've got this Nemesis in my life it's Highway 280 in Birmingham Alabama Satan sends everybody on my bumper my rear end side everywhere and you know and the only thing that keeps me sane or doing what I want to is that person may be visiting Briarwood next Sunday [00:39:23]

I do not believe that doubts damn the soul of a man I do believe if I understand the Bible correctly there will be many headed into an eternal condemnation because of sinful presumption many will say to me in that day so um sinful presumption I think can send you into hell but doubts that are answered by going to the Lord not to my life but to the Lord who is my life I think they're actually productive in my life so that I can then learn to sing Blessed assurance Jesus is mine [00:45:22]

Faith does not doubt the Christian May doubt the Christian may have questions the antidote to doubt is faith faith is The Shield we use to protect ourselves from doubt faith is what trusts the promises of God to be true beyond what we may be tempted to doubt and I I think that's very important to bear in mind if you have doubts it's not a problem of your faith doubting it's a it's a problem of your doubting but if you're really a Christian Calvin says those doubts come from the outside [00:47:30]

everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved and Paul I think in the middle of this marvelous theological development that he's making pauses in what he's planning and teaching and says you may not understand all of Romans 9 and you may not understand all of Romans 11. but don't miss this Central Point everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved and so if you're wondering if you're elect or reprobate if you call on the name of the Lord you'll be saved [01:01:13]

if your HR department demands you take training that is clearly against Biblical teaching is it okay to answer their questions based on what you know they want to hear in order to avoid being flagged for quote unquote sensitivity training or possibly even losing your job no it's not okay best to talk with your HR Director or find another job or or give them a a Biblical and creatively biblical alternative like Shadrach Meshach and Abednego did as well as Daniel when they were confronted with something [01:07:09]

the phrase that is really key to this book is the fear of the Lord it's full of all this practical advice and relationships and money and work and we love reading the proverb a day to be wise livers but but all through that book read it and look for how many times the fear of the Lord occurs and it just dawned on me that this is what it's all about it's the doctrine of God it's it's fundamental to everything it's understanding who God is it's having at the core of our being the fear of the Lord [01:09:59]

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Transcript
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