HELPLESS

"We are helpless"

So explained my just turned 11 years old daughter this morning as we studied our way through Romans chapter 1 - 6 this morning.

This week my girls requested me to forgo our current study of Pilgrim's Progress to revisit our previous study of Romans. To once again consider the gospel as presented especially in those first six chapters.

An outline of our conversation went something like this:

Rom 1:16 as a key verse for the whole of Romans - The gospel of Christ of which Paul by the Holy Spirit of God says he is not ashamed is the power of God unto salvation to everyone who believes.

Rom 1:1-4 Observing that Paul is separated unto the Gospel. The gospel long proclaimed even before by his Holy Apostles in the HOLY SCRIPTURES.

Which Gospel is "CONCERNING" his son Jesus Christ. We made observation that this word "concerning" means "ABOUT" it's all about CHRIST. We also noted that the Greek word PERI from where we get the English word perimeter teaches us that like the perimeter of the circle - the gospel is all around, all about Christ. The gospel is about JESUS, who he is and what he has done.

And immediately in the next verses we learn that Jesus Christ is of the seed of DAVID according to the FLESH and declared to be the SON OF GOD with power. 1Tim 3:16 God manifest in the flesh.

Going on we rehearsed our keywords from each of the first six chapters of Romans.

Rom 1:20 Everyone is WITHOUT EXCUSE for creation evidences a creator. We can see that GOD IS and if GOD IS then HE is to be worshiped.

And if we would know that GOD IS we should live in obedience to him. IF we have within in us some knowledge of right and wrong, a sense of RULE that must be obeyed we know also that it must be obeyed perfectly in all its parts. Rom 2:13 it is not the hearers but the DOERS of the Law that are justified or declared right by and with GOD.

But from Romans 3:10 we see that there is NONE RIGHTEOUS. And Rom 3:23 ALL have sinned. We cannot but conclude from our condition and plight that the only means to be justified is by FAITH and not by the works of the law. Rom 3:28.

AGAIN - what does the scriptures say. Rom 4:3 reminds us - that Abraham believed GOD it was counted to him for/unto righteousness. (greek word "eis" meaning unto or into) Faith is the instrument by which Abraham was imputed as righteous. Not works but Faith.

And we can gain great hope for this was not written for just Abraham but for us also to whom it shall be imputed if we believe on him who raised up Christ our Lord from the dead. Rom 4:22-25.

But how can this work?

How can God consider the righteousness of another as mine? How can the atoning work or Christ be done in my place, and how can his perfect law-keeping righteousness be imputed to me?

Which answer we find in Romans Chapter Five where we read of the REPRESENTATION or HEADSHIP of Jesus Christ on behalf of those that are in him.

Rom 5:12 See how the judgement or consequence of what Adam has done has fallen upon us all, in fact upon the whole world. Death passed upon all men. We are culpable in Adam, because we were in ADAM as he STOOD IN THE GARDEN in the form of a public representative of all that were in HIM. What Adam did he did on behalf of all that were in him. When ADAM fell, all fell in HIM. In ADAM ALL DIE.

Rom 5:14 As is evident all around --- the result of Adam's fall, know also that ADAM in this representative nature was a FIGURE or TYPE of HIM THAT WAS TO COME. HE was a figure of CHRIST. Christ, the second Adam, holding a representative office for his people. So that what Jesus did he did on behalf of all that were in HIM.

We read in Genesis, God's words to Adam: In the day thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. He ate and Death passed upon all. We could also read "and in the not eating thereof you will live." Christ obeyed where Adam disobeyed.

Rom 5:19 For AS by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, SO by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.

We especially concentrated here upon those two little words: AS and SO

What does the word "AS" mean we thought. It means in similar fashion, in LIKE manner with Adam as a representative so also CHRIST. The results are quite opposite but there is a similarity in their representative offices. Which office was appointed by GOD.

By Faith in Christ alone we are counted righteousness. We are declared perfectly 100% righteous because our HEAD was this, if we by Faith beleive on the HIM who raised up Christ our Lord from the dead.

AND SO my just-turned-11-years-old daughter says with all seriousness: "We are helpless without God. He is the one who puts his spirit in us. We cannot do this work, he must do it. We are helpless, He changes us." I don't remember ever using that word with my girls but I think she rightly appropriated it today "HELPLESS without GOD." Even for our Faith, God be thanked.

This led me to think deeply about the meaning of faith and to think out loud with my girls this morning. How FAITH, and BELIEVING does speak to our utter dependence and reliance upon God for every good and perfect gift. Even as a baby is so dependent upon parents for food, and bed, and love, and shelter, and changing the diapers - so dependent. We are dependent upon God, Our faith is a dependence, a trusting a relying upon GOD ALONE, Apart from him we are helpless.

[postscript: after discussing the above post my 11 yr old added the comment, "and so I also thank God for making that in my mind."]

** Update - Whitestone has written extensively and clearly on this same topic today in her post entitled:

What I Learned Yesterday In the Chemo Chair click here

Whitestone's article deals with the Heidelberg Catechism and the following question and answer:
Question 12 asks, "According to God's righteous judgment we deserve punishment both in this world and forever after: How then can we escape punishment and return to God's favor?"

Answer 12: God requires that His justice be satisfied. Therefore the claims of His justice must be paid in full, either by ourselves or another.

Romans - Chapters 1 and 2

(Pictured above is a word cloud on the entire book of Romans. click here to see word clounds for the 66 books of the Bible. )

This post is part of a study in Romans, whereby we identify keywords and phrases for each chapter with the goal of having a handle on the subject matter and flow of thought within Romans whereby we can preach the gospel to ourselves and others every day. See here for a introduction and description of our study in Romans.

Below is a handout plus a few added notes to summarize the previous four weeks in Romans Chapters one and two, and to introduce the memory verses and keywords for Romans Chapter 3.

STUDY IN ROMANS
CHAPTER ONE and TWO
November 15, 2009

Keywords:

• Chap 1: Without Excuse
• Chap 2: The Law Condemns
• Chap 3: There is none righteous

Alternate Keywords:

• Chap 1: The Indictment Begins (Rom 1:18)
• Chap 2: Jews having a Law, Gentiles not having a Law Answered
  
• Chap 3: All have sinned, Total Depravity

Memory Verses:

• Rom 1:20
• Rom 2:13
• Rom 3:10

Extended Memory Verses

• Chap 1: Rom 1:20, Rom 1:1, Rom 1:8, Rom 1:16-20
• Chap 2: Rom 2:13, Rom 2:12-16
• Chap 3: Rom 3:10, Rom 3:10-12, Rom 3:18, Rom 3:21, Rom 3:23, Rom 3:28-29

In the summaries below the idea is to cement in yourself what is meant by "Without Excuse" and "The Law Condemns." It is not so important to memorize a script as to grasp how these two keywords begin to explain the truth that everyone stands in need of a savior--that outside of Christ there is no salvation. And to remember the flow of the presentation the apostle Paul by the Spirit of God is setting forth.

Romans Chapter One - Without Excuse:

Everyone is without excuse. No one is a victim who is innocent because of ignorance. That which may be known of God has been plainly-made-known or manifest in us, God has showed it to us. Having the truth yet suppressing it. Everyone is without excuse. The invisible things of Him from the very beginning of the world are clearly seen. They are understood by the things that are made. EVEN his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are WITHOUT EXCUSE. Creation evidences a creator. Everything that exists owes for it’s origin ultimately to a self-existent one. Every flower dependent upon the bee, every bee dependent upon the flower, every woodpecker dependent upon the superior strength of his beak that can peck and upon his tongue and every woodpecker’s tongue dependent upon the sheath in his head and every woodpecker’s head dependent upon the incredible shock absorbers surrounding his brain, --- every symbiotic relationship showing forth the glory and wisdom of it’s creator. God’s power is on display. If we would just open our eyes and marvel and worship HIM, Marvelous creator, MARVELOUS GOD. (For more on the woodpecker example click here.)

Romans Chapter Two - The Law Condemns:
The gentiles can make excuse saying, “but we have no law to guide us -- we don’t know -- how can we be blamed?” and the Jews can boast saying “but we have the law, we hear it, we read it, we are Jews, we will escape judgment.

In this chapter, both parties are answered and both are shown to be undone. For the gentiles show the work of the Law written on their heart when they see and value something as either right or wrong. When they are incensed at an injustice, or when they make excuse to justify someone’s action they are clearly showing that God has placed his law on their hearts, though they know it imperfectly, yet even their conscience testifies to the truth of this and their thoughts making excuses on the one hand and accusations on the other. The Jews have the law, but it is not the hearing of it that counts. And as to both parties, whether the law is only what they have by nature written on their hearts, or as do the Jews having a written law, yet it is not the having of it that counts, or the hearing of it that counts but only the doing -- and only the perfection of that doing. As Gal 3:10 says, Cursed is everyone that does not CONTINUE in ALL. The word “continue” pointing to the required continuous perfect adherence to the law - at all times, and the “in all” showing that all parts of the law must be kept moment by moment. You must at all times always with every breath love God with all of your being, ever fiber perfectly or you fail. And if you fail the law condemns.

The law is very good to show you what must be done but it has no power to enable you to do what it requires. The law condemns. And this word “Condemns” is a very grave word speaking of very serious and eternal consequences concerning an eternal judgment. If you hope for the good to outweigh the bad, if you hope to meet some standard, if you hope for some merit by living by some code that seems right in your own heart -- know this - you will fail. The Law Condemns - it does not enable - it shows no mercy and offers no grace. It demands perfection, perfectly all the time. (see commentary at the bottom of this post.)

I often remember this poem, generally credited to John Bunyan, as a further explanation of how in the Law there is no grace, no promise of enablement, no mercy extended but rather to expose our sin and condemn us.

Run, John, Run, the Law commands
But gives me neither feet nor hands
Far Better news the Gospel Brings
It bids me Fly and gives me wings
(click here for possible alternative author and slightly modifed version)

I should add here, that Christ Jesus is our perfect law keeper. That as we continue our study through Romans we will find one who did in all points at all times perfectly keep the law. And he did it not for himself but for us whom he represented. So that, in his life, Christ fulfilled all righteousness and he did so FOR US who are in Christ, who believe. And in his death, our sins were imputed to him, so that he died in our place, in the place of his people and to satisfy the judgment and wrath of God which was against us. Christ Jesus made atonement for sin. He made satisfaction. What a savior! Hallelujah to God for the grace of faith to believe and partake in "so great salvation."

Summary of previous Blog Posts containing Expanded notes of our Study in Romans:
Introduction
Paul an Apostle, Verbal Plenary Inspiration
Rom 1:1-8
Rom 1:18 Faith is a Gift
Rom 1:20 Without Excuse
Rom 1:17-20 Questions

COMMENTARY:
From here to the bottom is a blog bonus feature offering an opportunity for the more inquiring to read from Calvin's Commentary on Rom 2:12-15.

John Calvin's Commentaries: (click here for online version)

12. Whosoever have sinned without law, ⁶⁹ etc. In the former part of this section he assails the Gentiles; though no Moses was given them to publish and to ratify a law from the Lord, he yet denies this omission to be a reason why they deserved not the just sentence of death for their sins; as though he had said — that the knowledge of a written law was not necessary for the just condemnation of a sinner. See then what kind of advocacy they undertake, who through misplaced mercy, attempt, on the ground of ignorance, to exempt the nations who have not the light of the gospel from the judgment of God.

Whosoever have sinned under the law, etc. As the Gentiles, being led by the errors of their own reason, go headlong into ruin, so the Jews possess a law by which they are condemned; ⁷⁰ for this sentence has been long ago pronounced,

“Cursed are all they who continue not in all its precepts.” (Deuteronomy 27:26.)

A worse condition then awaits the Jewish sinners, since their condemnation is already pronounced in their own law.

13. For the hearers of the law, etc. This anticipates an objection which the Jews might have adduced. As they had heard that the law was the rule of righteousness, (Deuteronomy 4:1,) they gloried in the mere knowledge of it: to obviate this mistake, he declares that the hearing of the law or any knowledge of it is of no such consequence, that any one should on that account lay claim to righteousness, but that works must be produced, according to this saying, “He who will do these shall live in them.” The import then of this verse is the following, — “That if righteousness be sought from the law, the law must be fulfilled; for the righteousness of the law consists in the perfection of works.” They who pervert this passage for the purpose of building up justification by works, deserve most fully to be laughed at even by children. It is therefore improper and beyond what is needful, to introduce here a long discussion on the subject, with the view of exposing so futile a sophistry: for the Apostle only urges here on the Jews what he had mentioned, the decision of the law, — That by the law they could not be justified, except they fulfilled the law, that if they transgressed it, a curse was instantly pronounced on them. Now we do not deny but that perfect righteousness is prescribed in the law: but as all are convicted of transgression, we say that another righteousness must be sought. Still more, we can prove from this passage that no one is justified by works; for if they alone are justified by the law who fulfill the law, it follows that no one is justified; for no one can be found who can boast of having fulfilled the law. ⁷¹

14. For when the Gentiles, etc. He now states what proves the former clause; for he did not think it enough to condemn us by mere assertion, and only to pronounce on us the just judgment of God; but he proceeds to prove this by reasons, in order to excite us to a greater desire for Christ, and to a greater love towards him. He indeed shows that ignorance is in vain pretended as an excuse by the Gentiles, since they prove by their own deeds that they have some rule of righteousness: for there is no nation so lost to every thing human, that it does not keep within the limits of some laws. Since then all nations, of themselves and without a monitor, are disposed to make laws for themselves, it is beyond all question evident that they have some notions of justice and rectitude, which the Greeks call preconceptions προληψεις, and which are implanted by nature in the hearts of men. They have then a law, though they are without law: for though they have not a written law, they are yet by no means wholly destitute of the knowledge of what is right and just; as they could not otherwise distinguish between vice and virtue; the first of which they restrain by punishment, and the latter they commend, and manifest their approbation of it by honoring it with rewards. He sets nature in opposition to a written law, meaning that the Gentiles had the natural light of righteousness, which supplied the place of that law by which the Jews were instructed, so that they were a law to themselves. ⁷²

15. Who show the work of the law ⁷³ written, etc.; that is, they prove that there is imprinted on their hearts a discrimination and judgment by which they distinguish between what is just and unjust, between what is honest and dishonest. He means not that it was so engraven on their will, that they sought and diligently pursued it, but that they were so mastered by the power of truth, that they could not disapprove of it. For why did they institute religious rites, except that they were convinced that God ought to be worshipped? Why were they ashamed of adultery and theft, except that they deemed them evils?

Without reason then is the power of the will deduced from this passage, as though Paul had said, that the keeping of the law is within our power; for he speaks not of the power to fulfill the law, but of the knowledge of it. Nor is the word heart to be taken for the seat of the affections, but only for the understanding, as it is found in Deuteronomy 29:4,

“The Lord hath not given thee a heart to understand;”

and in Luke 24:25,

“O foolish men, and slow in heart to believe.”

Nor can we conclude from this passage, that there is in men a full knowledge of the law, but that there are only some seeds of what is right implanted in their nature, evidenced by such acts as these — All the Gentiles alike instituted religious rites, they made laws to punish adultery, and theft, and murder, they commended good faith in bargains and contracts. They have thus indeed proved, that God ought to be worshipped, that adultery, and theft, and murder are evils, that honesty is commendable. It is not to our purpose to inquire what sort of God they imagined him to be, or how many gods they devised; it is enough to know, that they thought that there is a God, and that honor and worship are due to him. It matters not whether they permitted the coveting of another man’s wife, or of his possessions, or of any thing which was his, — whether they connived at wrath and hatred; inasmuch as it was not right for them to covet what they knew to be evil when done.

Their conscience at the same time attesting, etc. He could not have more forcibly urged them than by the testimony of their own conscience, which is equal to a thousand witnesses. By the consciousness of having done good, men sustain and comfort themselves; those who are conscious of having done evil, are inwardly harassed and tormented. Hence came these sayings of the heathens — “A good conscience is the widest sphere; but a bad one is the cruelest executioner, and more fiercely torments the ungodly than any furies can do.” There is then a certain knowledge of the law by nature, which says, “This is good and worthy of being desired; that ought to be abhorred.”

But observe how intelligently he defines conscience: he says, that reasons come to our minds, by which we defend what is rightly done, and that there are those which accuse and reprove us for our vices; ⁷⁴and he refers this process of accusation and defense to the day of the Lord; not that it will then first commence, for it is now continually carried on, but that it will then also be in operation; and he says this, that no one should disregard this process, as though it were vain and evanescent. And he has put, in the day, instead of, at the day, — a similar instance to what we have already observed.

⁶⁹ Ανόμως commonly means unlawfully, wickedly, lawlessly; but here, as it is evident from the context, it signifies to be without law. The adjective ἀνόμος is also used once in this sense in 1 Corinthians 9:21. — Ed.

⁷⁰ The word “condemned” would be better in the text than “judged;” it would then more plainly correspond with the former part, where the word “perished” is used: and that it means “condemned” is evident, for those who have “sinned” are the persons referred to. — Ed.

⁷¹ On the expression “hearers of the law,” Stuart has these remarks — “The Apostle here speaks of οἱ ἀκροαταὶ τοῦ νόμου, because the Jews were accustomed to hear the Scriptures read in public; but many of them did not individually possess copies of the sacred volume which they could read.”

⁷² As to the phrase, “these are a law unto themselves,” Venema adduces classical examples — πᾶν τὸ βέλτιστον φαινόμενον ἔστω σοι νόμος ἀπαράβατος “Whatever seems best, let it be to thee a perpetual law.” — Epict. in Ench., c. 75. “τὸ μὲν ορθὸν νόμος ἐστὶ βασιληκός What is indeed right, is a royal law.” — Plato in Min., page 317.
The heathens themselves acknowledged a law of nature. Turrettin quotes a passage from a lost work of Cicero, retained by Lactantius, which remarkably coincides with the language of Paul here — Ed.

⁷³ By the work of the law, τὸ ἔργον τοῦ νόμου, is to be understood what the law requires. The “work of God,” in John 6:29, is of the same import, that is, the work which God requires or demands; and the same word is plural in the former verse, τὰ ἔργα — “the works of God.” So here, in the former verse, it is τὰ τοῦ νόμου — “the things of the law,” where we may suppose ἔργαto be understood. The common expression, “the works of the law,” has the same meaning, that is, such works as the law prescribes and requires. — Ed.

⁷⁴ Calvin seems to consider that the latter part of the verse is only a expansion or an exposition of the preceding clause respecting “conscience:” but it seems to contain a distinct idea. The testimony of conscience is one thing, which is instantaneous, without reflection: and the thoughts or the reasonings — λογισμῶν, which alternately or mutually accuse or excuse, seem to refer to a process carried on by the mind, by which the innate voice of conscience is confirmed. This is the view taken by Stuart and Barnes, and to which Hodge is inclined.
Another view of the latter clause is given by Doddridge, Macknight, Haldane, and Chalmers The last gives this paraphrase of the whole verse, — “For they show that the matter of the law is written in their hearts — both from their conscience testifying what is right and wrong in their own conduct, and from their reasonings in which they either accuse or vindicate one another.”
But to regard the two clauses as referring to conscience and the inward workings of the mind, appears more consistent with the context. The Gentiles are those spoken of: God gave them no outward law, but the law of nature which is inward. Hence in the following verse he speaks of God as judging “the secrets of men,” as the inward law will be the rule of judgment to the Gentiles — Ed.

Romans 1:18-21 -- QUESTIONS

Joshua's latest post, click here, gave an example of arcing plus links to learn how we could do arcing ourselves. Although I've studied the technique of arcing a little, I've never really done the hard work to put it into practice. Though not putting it into practice I did note in that the technique of arcing requires one to identify the propositions within the text, their nature, and how they relate in context. This whole relationship once discerned is diagrammatically expressed by arcing. Often times as I'm studying and meditating on a passage, I try to identify propositions, to ask questions to make sure I grasp the passage, think on it deeply, and understand it within the context. Below is an example of how I tried to work this out on Romans 1:17-21. I simply think of it as "Questions." Sometimes the answers are obvious but the asking and verbalizing helps to see the flow, and make sure I really do have some understanding of the text. Sometimes the answers are elusive and it's necessary to do some extensive study to make sure I really do have a grasp of God's intended meaning of the text. And other times the questions remain, hopefully I make note of this and wait sometimes weeks later, months or even years when occasionally and joyfully the answer which previously evaded me becomes evident.

** Update ** And the more I read through the text and consider the questions usually the more questions that I see I should have asked.

QUESTIONS:
KJV Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. 17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

NAU Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. 17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, "BUT THE RIGHTEOUS man SHALL LIVE BY FAITH."

NIV Romans 1:16 I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. 17 For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith."

ESV Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. 17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, "The righteous shall live by faith."

Starting with verse 17:
Q. Consider what is meant by THEREIN, (NASB/ESV “in it” NIV “in the gospel”.) What does this reference?

Q. How is the righteousness of God revealed in the Gospel?

Q. What does it mean from faith to faith?

Q. Where is it written, “the just shall live by faith.”

Q. How does this quotation connect with previous clause?

Q. What is the righteousness of God in this verse? (this is actually a point of contention these days especially in view of the New Perspective on Paul.)


KJV Romans 1:18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;

NAU Romans 1:18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness,

NIV Romans 1:18 The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness,

ESV Romans 1:18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth.

NOTE: verse 17 talks of righteousness being revealed and now verse 18 of WRATH OF GOD revealed.


Q. What is the Wrath of God?

Q. In what way or what is meant by the “Wrath of God is Revealed from heaven?”

Q. Against whom or what is the Wrath of God revealed?

Q. What is the difference between ungodliness and unrighteousness - to what do they refer?

Q. What is meant by “hold the truth in unrighteousness?”

Q. What truth is held in unrighteousness?

KJV Romans 1:19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.

NAU Romans 1:19 because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them.

NIV Romans 1:19 since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them.

ESV Romans 1:19 For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them.

Q. What is “that which may be known of God?”

Q. And what does it mean to be “manifest in them” or “evident WITHIN them?”

Q. Do you think it is significant that the NASB and the KJV both indicate “IN THEM” or “WITHIN THEM?” NIV and ESV simply say “to them.” Greek says literally IN THEM -- not TO THEM.

Q. Note the two clauses beginning with BECAUSE…..FOR, or SINCE…BECAUSE… or FOR… BECAUSE. How do they relate to one another?

Q. Also note the noun in the first clause, manifest, and the verb in the second clause, shewed -- or EVIDENT…MADE IT EVIDENT. How does the noun - verb connection which are really practically the same word “manifest and to make manifest,” connected together.

KJV Romans 1:20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

NAU Romans 1:20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.

NIV Romans 1:20 For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities-- his eternal power and divine nature-- have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.

ESV Romans 1:20 For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.

Q. What are the “invisible things?”

Q. Is it from the creation or by the things created, or since the creation?

Q. What is it that is understood?

Q. Explain why they are without excuse?

Q. What is meant by "eternal power"?

Q. What is meant by Godhead?

KJV Romans 1:21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

NAU Romans 1:21 For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

NIV Romans 1:21 For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened.

ESV Romans 1:21 For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened.

Q. When did this take place, "who knew God?"

Q. How did they know God? What about God did they know?

Q. Is this applicable now? Or is this speaking of historical event or people? Specific people? Meant to be applied generally?

Q. Explain "their thinking became futile."

Q. What is it to have a "foolish heart" "darkened?"

Romans Chap 1 - Without Excuse

Romans Chap 1:

Keyword: Without Excuse

Suggested Memory Verses:
Short version: Rom 1:20
Intermediate: Rom 1:1, Rom 1:8, Rom 1:16, Rom 1:20
Ambitious: add to the Intermediate Rom 1:17-19.

RECAP:
Completing our two-week run through Romans Chapter One (Rom 1:1-32) it is appropriate to recap truths discussed focusing especially around our Keyword for the Chapter, "Without Excuse."

KEY VERSE FOR THE WHOLE BOOK:
Rom 1:16-17 serve as an excellent Key Verse summing up the whole book of Romans.
-Never be ashamed of the gospel.
-The gospel is the power of God unto salvation.
-To Everyone both Jew and Gentile
-In the Gospel the righteousness of God is revealed.
-From Faith to Faith -- that is by faith alone, beginning with faith and faith ever growing.
-And now in this book of Romans we will see how verses 16 and 17 head up the rest of Romans. How it is that one can be righteous before our thrice Holy God, perfectly righteous.

INDICTMENT BEGINS:
During our last class it was pointed out by Jim P., that beginning with verse Rom 1:18 we could call it the "Indictment Begins." For me this new term will serve as an additional handle on chapter 1 and will prove to be very true as we continue on especially through chapters two and three. The "Indictment Begins" and we are shown to be WITHOUT EXCUSE.

HOLDING/SUPPRESSING the Truth in Unrighteousness:
Rom 1:18 - showing that God's wrath revealed from heaven upon all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men -- MEN THAT HOLD/SUPPRESS THE TRUTH IN UNRIGHTEOUSNESS.

Let us mark these words. Not that they know nothing at all but that they will not know. That, in sin, the truth is suppressed.

WHY? It is plainly made known IN THEM. It is Plainly Shown TO THEM:
Rom 1:19 Again bringing on that INDICTMENT, What may be known of GOD is manifest/evident/plainly known IN THEM. Let us mark especially that phrase, IN THEM, which is coupled with the Greek noun for "plainly known" and the Greek verb for "plainly made known." (Note: I always think of this idea "plainly made known" when I read in my bible, Manifest.)

INDICTMENT MOUNTS SHOWING ALL WITHOUT EXCUSE:
Rom 1:20
"For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world"

Ever since the world was made this is true -- since the creation.

"Are clearly seen"

That God who cannot be seen, yet somehow the invisible things of him, these invisible things are clearly seen every since the world was made.
"being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead"

Creation declares a creator. The heavens make known his glory, the design inherent in nature declares a creator. Every bird that flies, every blade of grass, the air we breath, the eyes with which they see, making understood that GOD IS.

Calvin said it is evident and obvious that everything that exists owes its origin to one who has no origin that is a self-existent one. " that from which all other things derive their origin must necessarily be self-existent and eternal . " -- from Instititues I.5.6

"so that they are without excuse:"

And if GOD IS, then we must WORSHIP HIM.

Everyone is without excuse, the invisible things of God BEING UNDERSTOOD BY THE THINGS THAT ARE MADE, plainly made known IN THEM, and plainly shown TO THEM, but the truth is SUPPRESSED, it is resisted. SIN has ruined us and in unrighteousness the truth is held back.

IN THEM/TO THEM/THE TRUTH HELD IN UNRIGHTOUSNESS all of these point to a guilt that lies deeper than simply ignoring evidence.

Jesus Christ is the light that lighteth every man that cometh into the world. John 1:9

And man made in the image of God, Gen 1:26-27.

Made upright, Ecc 7:29

In Righteousness and True Holiness, Eph 4:24

But fallen from our original state, we stand condemned with an indictment which is now unfolding beginning with Rom 1:18. Holding the truth in Unrighteousness, in the presence of the that which shows clearly and makes understood the invisible things of God --- we are WITHOUT EXCUSE. No Defense can be made, no excuse given.

Matthew Poole Comments on Rom 1:20

Rom 1:20

"Because it might be further objected in behalf of the Gentiles, that the notions of God imprinted in their nature are so weak, that they may be well excused; therefore the apostle adds, that the certainty of them is further confirmed by the book of the creatures, which was written before them in capital letters, so that he that runs may read. The invisible things of him: the apostle tells us afterwards himself what he means by the invisible things of God, viz. his being and his attributes, particularly his eternity and almighty power; to which we might add, his wisdom, goodness, &c. These, though invisible in themselves, yet are discernible by his works, and that ever since the creation of the world. By what they see created, they may easily collect or understand, that there is an eternal and almighty Creator; they may argue from the effects to the cause. So that they are without excuse: some render it, that they may be without excuse; but it is better rendered in our translation: the meaning is not, that God gave them that knowledge for this end and purpose, that they might be inexcusable, for they might catch even at that for an excuse; but the plain sense is this, that God hath given all men such means of knowledge as sufficeth to leave them without excuse, there can be no pretence of ignorance. "

Concluding I will leave you with some helpful quotes from John Calvin taken from Institutes Book I, Chapter five.

"...he has been pleased, in order that none might be excluded from the means of obtaining felicity, not only to deposit in our minds that seed of religion of which we have already spoken, but so to manifest his perfections in the whole structure of the universe, and daily place himself in our view, that we cannot open our eyes without being compelled to behold him." "Hence, the author of the Epistle to the Hebrews elegantly describes the visible worlds as images of the invisible, (Heb. 11: 3,) the elegant structure of the world serving us as a kind of mirror, in which we may behold God, though otherwise invisible. For the same reason, the Psalmist attributes language to celestial objects, a language which all nations understand, (Psalm 19: 1,) the manifestation of the Godhead being too clear to escape the notice of any people, however obtuse. The apostle Paul, stating this still more clearly, says, "That which may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has showed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead," (Rom. 1: 20.)
"We have no excuse

But though we are deficient in natural powers which might enable us to rise to a pure and clear knowledge of God, still, as the dullness which prevents us is within, there is no room for excuse. We cannot plead ignorance, without being at the same time convicted by our own consciences both of sloth and ingratitude. It were, indeed, a strange defence for man to pretend that he has no ears to hear the truth, while dumb creatures have voices loud enough to declare it; to allege that he is unable to see that which creatures without eyes demonstrate, to excuse himself on the ground of weakness of mind, while all creatures without reason are able to teach. Wherefore, when we wander and go astray, we are justly shut out from every species of excuse, because all things point to the right path. But while man must bear the guilt of corrupting the seed of divine knowledge so wondrously deposited in his mind, and preventing it from bearing good and genuine fruit, it is still most true that we are not sufficiently instructed by that bare and simple, but magnificent testimony which the creatures bear to the glory of their Creator. For no sooner do we, from a survey of the world, obtain some slight knowledge of Deity, than we pass by the true God, and set up in his stead the dream and phantom of our own brain, drawing away the praise of justice, wisdom, and goodness, from the fountain-head, and transferring it to some other quarter. Moreover, by the erroneous estimate we form, we either so obscure or pervert his daily works, as at once to rob them of their glory and the author of them of his just praise."

For more on Rom 1:20, I encourage you to read the whole of Book 1 chapter five from The Institutes of the Christian Religion by clicking here.

ROMANS 1:8 - Faith is a Gift

(This picture reminds me of the apostles prayer: The eyes of your understanding being enlightened.. Eph 1:18)

This post is part of a study in Romans, whereby we identify keywords and phrases for each chapter with the goal of having a handle on the subject matter and flow of thought within Romans whereby we can preach the gospel to ourselves and others every day. See here for a introduction and description of our study in Romans.

Back in 2005 I spent several months studying the first eight verses or Romans Chapter 1. The following are my notes reviewing verses 1-7 plus a detailed study on Faith is a gift branching off from Romans 1:8. I left some references to the original language intact for those that may enjoy them.

ROMANS 1:8

Rom 1:8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world.
Rom 1:8 Πρῶτον μὲν εὐχαριστῶ τῷ Θεῷ μου διὰ ᾿Ιησοῦ Χριστοῦ ὑπὲρ πάντων ὑμῶν, ὅτι ἡ πίστις ὑμῶν καταγγέλλεται ἐν ὅλῳ τῷ κόσμῳ.

Rom 1.1-7 constitute a salutation to the letter, Amazing and wonderful how much blessing and instruction is contained in a bare salutation.

The following of which is for us a very brief review of how I spent a great part of 2005:
Rom 1:1 Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,
The humility and position of Paul: a servant – a slave. No small thing to be a servant of Jesus.
An apostle not by his own will and purpose but by the Divine CALLING and purposes of God.
Apostle: an office – when the word is received from Paul it is truly the very word of GOD.

Apostle: no longer an active office, no more the qualifications being met. The definition of the word may vary – some may falsely claim this office and others may use the word with a different meaning. This office is a great encouragement to us to accept every word of scripture as inspired of God brought to us by GOD’s Holy Apostles and Prophets.

Separated: Paul with a holy purpose and appointment in the GOSPEL.

Rom 1:2 (Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the Holy Scriptures,)
Promised afore: Not a new message but Paul bringing that same gospel long promised in the Scriptures:

Rom 1:3 Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh;
Concerning: Greek word PERI, from whence we also get the word perimeter. The gospel is ALL ABOUT Jesus.

Made of the seed of David: Jesus very man of very man. 100% man.
According to the Flesh: not something we would normally say regarding our sons and daughters but necessary in explaining the humanity of the ETERNAL SON OF GOD.

Rom 1:4 And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead:
Jesus: Very God of Very God, 100% God. NO less God having been made flesh. Two natures in one person the Great Mediator and our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. The word made flesh, who made all that is in the world.

Rom 1:5 By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name;

Received: Paul divinely enabled to be an apostle that not only Jews but some from among all nations would be obedient to the faith ie. that they would believe the gospel.

For his name: The gospel is entirely GOD-Centered. All things for His Glory. What he does – he does first and foremost for his Glory. Truly the Chief End of Man is to GLORIFY GOD. And this ought to direct us in all our actings, and in all our understandings regarding our purpose.

Rom 1:6 Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ:
Called: You also belong to Christ, Israel was his called, you who believe can be assured you our Christ’s.

Rom 1:7 To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Rome: This letter written to the believers in Rome but we also are intended to learn from their directions and instructions. This epistle being a great exposition of the Gospel.

Beloved: what a title, and we truly are able to love him because he first LOVED us, when we were yet sinners and enemies.

CALLED: Those that believe are those who have been called to this. This speaks of an effectual CALLING. All that the Father gives to the Son shall come to the Son and none will come otherwise. If you are believing Thanks be to God.

SAINTS: Same greek word as also translated “HOLY”. Us who believe are called for this purpose TO BE HOLY and to BE CONFORMED to the image of his SON. Sanctification in main sense is progressive we are not all maturing the same, we are none of us perfect while yet alive, but we are growing in holiness and sometimes in a relapse and renewing – but God purpose is TO BE HOLY. But in another sense we are positionally perfectly HOLY in Christ by imputation. Which truth The Holy Spirit will communicate most fully in this letter.

And now, the salutation complete let us begin this glorious epistle.

FIRST – this word stands out. What Paul by the Spirit of God FIRST must mention is this expression of gratitude and Humility.

Rom 1:8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world.

Rom 1:8 Πρῶτον μὲν εὐχαριστῶ τῷ Θεῷ μου διὰ ᾿Ιησοῦ Χριστοῦ ὑπὲρ πάντων ὑμῶν, ὅτι ἡ πίστις ὑμῶν καταγγέλλεται ἐν ὅλῳ τῷ κόσμῳ.

I thank my GOD --- Through Jesus Christ. Again we are reminded of the person and work of Jesus Christ, God Manifest in the Flesh and the ONE mediator between God and Man. NO ONE May come to the Father but through HIM and Paul here brings his Thanks to GOD THROUGH the MEANS OF HIM. Because of who HE is and What he Has Done and Because we BELONG TO HIM.

This:
Glorifies God,
Shows that all is due to His Grace
Only Through Christ are we please to God. “praises and prayers”
Not only to pray for but give thanks for our friends and for all believers.

John Gill:
…his view in it was, to glorify God, to testify his affection to the saints, and to show that all they had must be referred to the grace of God. The object of thanksgiving is God not merely as a creator and preserver, but as a Father, the Father of Christ, and our Father in Christ; as the one God, and our God, Father, Son, and Spirit. 1

Matthew Henry:
Through Jesus Christ. All our duties and performances are pleasing to God only through Jesus Christ, praises as well as prayers. - For you all. We must express our love to our friends, not only by praying for them, but by praising God for them. God must have the glory of all the comfort we have in our friends; for every creature is that to us, and no more, which God makes it to be. Many of these Romans Paul had no personal acquaintance with, and yet he could heartily rejoice in their gifts and graces. 2

MY GOD:
Think what a privilege and blessing to acknowledge that GOD is: MUCH more that He is “MY GOD” and mine not because of my special qualifications, my abilities, my beauty, my condition pitiful or grand but MY GOD from eternity past in Covenant between the Father and the Son, my God by adoption in Christ, My GOD by Grace.


That Your Faith:
The Believers in Rome were of such that their Faith was spoken of throughout the WHOLE WORLD. People took note of them. They did not hide their Faith but Lived it.

FAITH IS A NECESSITY IF EVER WE HOPE TO LIVE AND PLEASE GOD:
We must believe, God does not believe for us, we are commanded to Believe.

We are to LIVE BY FAITH:
(Rom 1:17) For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written. The just shall live by faith.
(Gal 3:11) But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.

RIGHTEOUSNESS COMES BY FAITH:
(Rom 3:22) Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:

JUSTIFIED BY FAITH:
(Rom 3:28) Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.
(Rom 3:30) Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith.
(Rom 5:1) Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:
(Gal 3:24) Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.

Access into GRACE enabling us to STAND and REJOICE:
(Rom 5:2) By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

(Rom 9:32) Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumblingstone;

STAND BY FAITH: but Jews BROKEN OFF BECAUSE OF UNBELIF:
(Rom 11:20) Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear:
(2Co 1:24) Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand.

WALK BY FAITH:
(2Co 5:7) (For we walk by faith, not by sight:)

THE PROMISE GIVEN BY FAITH:
(Gal 3:22) But the Scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.

CHILDREN OF GOD BY FAITH:
(Gal 3:26) For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.

WAITING BY FAITH:
(Gal 5:5) For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith.

CHRIST DWELLING IN OUR HEARTS BY FAITH:
(Eph 3:17) That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,


(Phi 3:9) And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:

(Heb 10:38) Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.

HEBREWS CHAPTER 11:
(Heb 11:4) By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.
(Heb 11:5) By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.
(Heb 11:7) By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.
(Heb 11:8) By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.
(Heb 11:9) By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise:
(Heb 11:17) By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son,
(Heb 11:20) By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come.
(Heb 11:21) By faith Jacob, when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph; and worshiped, leaning upon the top of his staff.
(Heb 11:22) By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones.
(Heb 11:23) By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king's commandment.
(Heb 11:24) By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter;
(Heb 11:27) By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible.
(Heb 11:29) By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians attempting to do were drowned.
(Heb 11:30) By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days.
(Heb 11:31) By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace.

FROM ALL THIS I CONCLUDE THAT WE CANNOT PLEASE GOD WITHOUT FAITH:
Heb 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

It also true that NO ONE IN THE FLESH CAN PLEASE GOD:
Rom 8:4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
Rom 8:5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.
Rom 8:6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
Rom 8:7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.
Rom 8:8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.
Rom 8:9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

FAITH is not produced by the FLESH. Flesh cannot please God. That ONE Greatest thing Man must do cannot be savingly produced by the FLESH. The great obstacle to man’s salvation requires a great work of God. The regenerating work of God by which a Man becomes a NEW CREATURE in CHRIST.

From this observation alone, I am confident if ever I believe in God to the saving of my soul, God will get all the Glory and Thanks and Praise. We must believe, God does not believe for us, we are commanded to Believe. But if ever we finding ourselves believing with saving Faith – Let God receive the praise and Glory for it.

NOTE:
Rom 1:8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world.

This commendation was not to puff them up as flattery, it was a matter of THANKSGIVING to God. Let God be praised for it. God be Thanked!! To God be all the Glory!

Contained in this statement is a truth which I believe will bring much practical comfort and direction to every believer, I thank God…That your faith….

FAITH IS A GIFT: we are dependent on grace even for this THING which we must have if ever we Hope to Please God.

The above syllogism demonstrates that: without faith it is impossible to please God...but they that are in the FLESH cannot please God, Hence Faith is not a product of the Flesh, it is a GIFT of GRACE.

Following I shall endeavor to demonstrate this DOCTRINE to your full satisfaction and to the Grounding of your souls on a TRUTH that I believe you will find most comforting, God Exalting, and full of Practical Implication and guidance to continue your trip heavenward.

VERSES THAT CLEARLY SHOW FAITH IS A GIFT:

2Ti 2:25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;
2Ti 2:26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

Phi 1:29 For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;

Act 18:27 And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace:

Heb 12:2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Mat 16:15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am?
Mat 16:16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
Mat 16:17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-jona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.

Act 13:48 And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed.

Joh 6:35 And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.
Joh 6:36 But I said unto you, That ye also have seen me, and believe not.
Joh 6:37 All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.

Joh 6:44 No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day.

Joh 6:63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.
Joh 6:64 But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him.
Joh 6:65 And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father.

Rom 12:3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

John Piper Writes:
In the context, this is not a limited reference to the unique spiritual gift of faith which only some believers have (1 Corinthians 12:9). For Paul says, "I say to everyone among you not to think more highly of himself than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgement, as God has alloted to each a measure of faith. (emphasis added). "To each" refers back to "everyone among you." God has given all Christians varying measures of faith. This is the faith with which we receive and use our varying gifts. It is the ordinary daily trust of the Son of God (Galatians 2:20) by which we live and minister. 3

1Ti 1:12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry;
1Ti 1:13 Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.
1Ti 1:14 And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.

John Gill Writes:
with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus; these are the effects of the love and favour of God displayed in conversion, or which the grace of God brings along with it, and implants in the soul at that time, as it did in the apostle; for by "faith" is not meant the faithfulness of God to his Son, and to his covenant, oath, and promise, which now began visibly to be made good; nor the faith of the Gospel committed to the apostle's trust, which was an high favour; but the grace of faith, which is a pure gift of God, and a distinguishing instance of his grace; for all men have it not, only his elect; and is a most precious and excellent grace, and of great use and importance: it receives every blessing from Christ, and gives him all the glory; through it. 4

2Th 1:3 We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth;

Eph 2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
Eph 2:9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

John Piper in Desiring God Writes:
Re: Eph 2:5-8
"The words for "grace" and "faith" are feminine in the original Greek. The word for "this" is neuter. Some have used this lack of agreement to say that the gift here is not faith. But this ignores the implication of verse 5: "Even when you were dead!" Grace is grace because it saved us even when we were dead. But it saves "through faith." how does it save the dead through faith? By awakening the dead into the life of faith. That is why faith is a gift in Eph 2:5-8. "This" refers to the whole event of salvation by grace through faith, and therefore does include faith as a gift. (Cf. Acts 18:27, "When he arrived he greatly helped those who through grace had believed.)"5

2Th 1:11 Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power:


VERSES THAT DRIVE HOME OUR INABILTY TO COME TO GOD WITHOUT REGENERATING GRACE:
Rom 3:11 There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God.

1Co 2:14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

Rom 8:7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.

We must believe, it is our duty and responsibility before God. But How to do that which is good, in the flesh I cannot find it! Thus, Let God be praised, if you find yourself believing the gospel – for such things are spiritually discerned.

REGENERATION PRECEDES FAITH: Faith is a gift resulting from the effects of regeneration. By being born-again we are enabled to believe. We are no longer in the flesh but in the Spirit.

Joh 1:12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
Joh 1:13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

Believing is evidence that the new birth has already occurred:
1Jo 5:1 Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him.
1Jo 5:1 Πᾶς ὁ πιστεύων ὅτι ᾿Ιησοῦς ἐστιν ὁ Χριστὸς, ἐκ τοῦ Θεοῦ γεγέννηται, καὶ πᾶς ὁ ἀγαπῶν τὸν γεννήσαντα ἀγαπᾷ καὶ τὸν γεγεννημένον ἐξ αὐτοῦ.

Who believes? – those that have already been born of God.

Must we first LOVE to be born of God???? Love is the grace resulting from the effects of the new birth.
1Jo 4:7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.
Note the same grammatical use of effect preceding the cause.
1Jo 4:7 ᾿Αγαπητοί, ἀγαπῶμεν ἀλλήλους, ὅτι ἡ ἀγάπη ἐκ τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐστι, καὶ πᾶς ὁ ἀγαπῶν ἐκ τοῦ Θεοῦ γεγέννηται καὶ γινώσκει τὸν Θεόν.

1Jo 3:9 Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.
A similar statement to 1Joh 5:1. Could also read “whoever doth not commit sin is born of God.”
1Jo 3:9 Πᾶς ὁ γεγεννημένος ἐκ τοῦ Θεοῦ ἁμαρτίαν οὐ ποιεῖ, ὅτι σπέρμα αὐτοῦ ἐν αὐτῷ μένει· καὶ οὐ δύναται ἁμαρτάνειν, ὅτι ἐκ τοῦ Θεοῦ γεγέννηται.

Joh 3:3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.
Joh 3:4 Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born?
Joh 3:5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.
Joh 3:6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.
Joh 3:7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.
Joh 3:8 The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit.

Eph 2:1 And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins

Act 16:14 And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul.

Rom 9:16 So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that showeth mercy.

VERSES THAT TEACH WE WERE DEAD BEFORE REGENERATION.
(dead men dead to God need a resurrection to life in order to savingly believe.)

Eph 2:1 And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins
Eph 2:2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:
Eph 2:3 Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.
Eph 2:4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,
Eph 2:5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, by (grace ye are saved;)
Eph 2:6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:
Eph 2:7 That in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.
Eph 2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
Eph 2:9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Rom 5:6 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.

ETERNAL ELECTION also demonstrates that SALVATION IS ALL OF GRACE, the GRACE of FAITH in the ELECT being an accomplishment of God’s Eternal Purpose of Election:
Eph 1:4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
Eph 1:5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,
Eph 1:6 To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.

Eph 1:11 In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:

2Th 2:13 But we are bound to give thanks always to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth:
2Th 2:14 Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.
2Th 2:15 Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle.

2Ti 1:9 Who hath saved us, and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,

Rom 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
Rom 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.
Rom 8:30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.
Rom 8:31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?
Rom 8:32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?
Rom 8:33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth.

Rom 11:7 What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded.

Joh 17:9 I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine.

SUMMARIZING:
I Have tried to show thus far that the doctrine, FAITH IS A GIFT, is true. This was demonstrated in the following ways:

1) Direct Scriptural References that teach this truth.

2) That man in the flesh is unable to believe. 1Co 2.14, Rom 2.21, Rom 8.7

3) The syllogism that without faith we cannot please God (Heb 11.6), no one in the flesh can please God and in fact is unable to do so (Rom 8), and thus we must first be in the SPIRT before we can exercise our duty of FAITH. God enables us to do that which he has commanded we must do.

4) That the scriptures teach Regeneration precedes Faith in the Order of Salvation. 1Joh 5.1, Joh 1.12.

5) That the Doctrine of Eternal Election infers that for God’s purposes to be assuredly accomplished he will supply the enablement to believe.

IMPLICATIONS of this Doctrine, Faith is a Gift, IN THE LIFE OF A BELIEVER:
1) It teaches a proper humility. We did not save ourselves, it is all of Grace, Salvation is of the Lord
Rom 12:3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
Eph 2.8-9 NO Boasting

Humility expressed:
1Ti 1:12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry;
1Ti 1:13 Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.
1Ti 1:14 And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.

2) It teaches us to give thanks to God for our Faith, that of our friends and all believers everywhere. And to seek God for an enlargement of our faith.

2Th 1:3 We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth;

3) This doctrine will impact how we pray.
Luk 22:31 And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat:
Luk 22:32 But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.
"Jesus prays for Peter's faith to be sustained even through sin, because he knows that God is the one who sustains faith." 6

4) We ought to pray in this way for ourselves and others:
Luk 17:5 And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith.
Mar 9:24 And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief.

2Th 1:11 Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power:

John Gill writes:
...and the work of faith with power; faith is not only an operative grace; see Gill on 1Th_1:3 and is attended with good works; but it is a work itself, not of man's, for he cannot produce it in himself, nor exercise it of himself; but it is the work of God, of his operation which he works in his people; it has not only God for its object, and therefore the Arabic version reads, "the work of faith on him"; but it has God for its author: and this now, though it had grown exceedingly in these believers, was not as yet fulfilled or perfect; something was still lacking in it; wherefore the apostle prays that he who was the author would be the finisher of it: and this will be done "with power"; not of man's, for this work is neither begun, nor carried on, nor will it be finished by the might and power of men; but the same hands which laid the foundation of it, raise it up, carry it on, and give the finishing stroke to it; it is done by the power of God, and so the Arabic and Ethiopic versions read, "by his own power": which is greatly displayed in the production of faith at first; for a poor sensible sinner, in a view of all his sins, and the just deserts of them, to venture his soul on Christ alone for salvation; for a man to go out of himself and renounce his own righteousness, and trust to the righteousness of Christ for his justification before God, and acceptance with him, is owing to the exceeding greatness of God's power to them that believe; and the same power is seen in enabling faith to do the things it does; see Heb_11:1 and in encouraging, supporting, and maintaining it under the most difficult circumstances, as in the case of Abraham; and to make it stand fast under the severest persecutions, and at the hour of death, and in the view of an awful eternity, when it receives its full completion. 7

5) Acknowledging of this truth will guide the way we preach the gospel to ourselves. We no longer need to depend on the strength of our own will to believe to the saving of souls – BUT recognizing this as our solemn duty and privilege it will be seen as an enablement coming from GOD. We are responsible and will never be excused from this duty but GOD will get all the GLORY. It is to the glory of HIS OWN SON that we believe. Not a merit based on my works even my own work of faith but on God working in me to will and to do.
Phi 2:13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.

6) Acknowledging of this truth will guide the way we preach the gospel to others. Our part will be seen in proclaiming the good news to HIS GLORY. We present the beauty of Jesus and the Gospel message in its fullness knowing that as many as ordained to eternal life will receive faith through the hearing of the Word of God.

7) Acknowledging of this truth will free many of unwarranted condemnation. Some are made to feel condemnation at their inability to CONVINCE others, some say they are playing the part of salesmen whose role is to sell the gospel. The success or failure of the sinner to embrace Christ lies squarely on their shoulders and their abilities. This running in the flesh was a main diet of my early Christianity and teaching. It also results from too high a thought of ourselves and to low a thought of God’s Sovereignty and power to save.

WARNING:
This truth can also lead to abuse. The flesh is very willing to leave one extreme (too high a view of one’s abilities combined with too low a view of God’s power and sovereignty) to another extreme (passivity, if faith is a gift and I must do all by faith then I will just sit here and watch TV until Faith comes upon me. )

Or misconstruing enabling grace for active doing. We cannot believe except it were given to us of God BUT God does not believe for us. We must believe and we must repent. This is our duty and responsibility! God does not believe for us.

This was explained in article by Geoff Thomas as follows – quoted at length:
So we need to believe in Christ to be saved, but only by God's wonderful favour through Jesus Christ is anyone able to believe. But now I want to say something that might seem at first to contradict everything I have been saying so far. If giving a new heart and a new nature is an act of God alone then believing is not the act of God. John Murray said that, "it is not God who believes in Christ for salvation, it is the sinner. It is by God's grace that a person is able to believe, but faith is an activity on the part of the person and of him alone. In faith we receive and rest upon Christ alone for salvation. It might be said: this is a strange mixture. God alone regenerates. We alone believe. And we believe in Christ alone for salvation. But this is precisely the way it is . . . It is our responsibility to be what regeneration effects. It is our responsibility to be holy . . . And we are never relieved of the obligation to believe in Christ to the saving of our souls. The fact that regeneration is the prerequisite of faith in no way relieves us of the responsibility to believe nor does it eliminate the priceless privilege that is ours as Christ and his claims are pressed upon us . . . Our inability is no excuse for our unbelief nor does it provide us with any reason for not believing" (John Murray, "Redemption Accomplished and Applied," Banner of Truth, 1961, pp. 106, 112).

In other words, faith does not believe for me, just as repentance does not repent for me. Repentance is something I must do, as I am also commanded to exercise faith. The jailor at Philippi said to Paul and Silas, "What must I do to be saved?" and the immediate answer he received was this, "Believe - you yourself have to believe - on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you shall be saved," and so he did. But how did the jailor exercise that faith? Think of those times in Philippi: God had homed in upon that city, and then upon the jailor in his prison, and he led that man in a new direction. He gave him his first Christian friends, two men who had made Philippi buzz with their preaching. They had sung God's praises in his hearing and then they spoke the truth to him; God brought him to Christian preaching and knowledge. More! Throughout this time God was giving him a new heart, and he was taking away the jailor's heart of stone. God was active doing all of that. The sheer vertical sovereign grace of God accomplished it in him. The jailor was by nature helpless and passive and cynical about resurrection and redemption, but God had mercifully done a preparatory work in his heart. It was beyond his conscious experience, but it was a real work of God nonetheless. So when the command came to him to believe, God having worked in his life, the jailer freely chose to believe and be baptized. He had no excuse for not doing so. He had the ability to believe given him by God. He had a Saviour offered to him worthy of his trust, and he himself believed. There was immediate new concern. Was there anything th at he could do for Christ and his people and his cause? God had made him willing freely and personally to exercise his will and trust in Jesus Christ. I am saying that though saving faith is a gift of God it is we who exercise that gift and choose to believe in the Lord and to repent. 8


So with the closing words of John Piper I leave you to depend on GOD. Seeking him for an increase of faith and GRACE.

John Piper:
1Co 15:10 But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.

Col 1:28 Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:
Col 1:29 Whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.

The great words, "Not I, but grace" are not energy- destroying words, but energy producing words. Listen to Paul again from Colossians 1:28-29, "We proclaim [Christ], admonishing every man and teaching every man with all wisdom, so that we may present every man complete in Christ. For this purpose also I labor, striving according to His power, which works mightily within me" (emphasis aded). Paul labors, Paul strives. But it is the mightly power of Christ that works in him, enabling him.

The point is this: God does not will instead of our willing; he wills in and through our willing. God does not work instead of our working, but through our working. God does not energize instead of our having energy; He energizes our energy. Therefore it is unbiblical and irrational to say that because the grace of God produces an active trust in God, we don't need to exert an active trust in God. 9

PRAY: Thank you Father for the gift of Faith! Thank you Father that though my eyes were blind and darkened by sin you have opened them. Amazing Grace! Not me but you, not my will but yours, not my strength but your enabling grace. Father as you have taught me to understand my total dependence upon your superabundant and overflowing grace even and especially to believe, I look to you for all things pertaining to life and godliness.

FOOTNOTES:
1. Dr. John Gill (1690-1771), John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible, e-Sword, Rom 1.8.
2. Matthew Henry (1662 - 1714), Matthew Henry’s Commentary on the Whole Bible, e-Sword, Rom 1.8.
3. John Piper, God Has Alloted to Each a Measure of Faith, www.monergism.com.
4. Dr. John Gill (1690-1771), John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible, e-Sword, 1Ti 1.14.
5. John Piper, As quoted by Jim Hendryx in article, Answers to Objections to Faith Being a Gift of God, www.monergism.com.
6. John Piper, God Has Alloted to Each a Measure of Faith, www.monergism.com.
7. Dr. John Gill (1690-1771), John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible, e-Sword, 2Th 1.11.
8. Geoff Thomas, Faith is a Gift of God, www.monergism.com.
9. John Piper, God Has Alloted to Each a Measure of Faith, www.monergism.com.