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Can I Really Ever Overcome Sinful Pride by faith alone in Jesus?

August 24, 2025 Effie Barba Leave a comment

Perhaps the most difficult thing for the human heart is to overcome sinful pride. We are born with this sin nature that pulls within our hearts desiring to think of me first always. It is in the heart of the child screaming “mine”. And it never seems to go away during our lifetime. Even we who have put our faith in Jesus Christ are plagued by Sinful Pride. Can we ever overcome sinful Pride? We tend to be self-centered. Desiring love, recognition, and wanting others to recognize what we do.

Even the work I think I am doing for God often gets turned toward wanting glory for myself. Instead of being only for His Glory. This despite all the Glory being His Alone and none of mine. I can do nothing, absolutely nothing good apart from His Holy Spirit working through me. Should not my entire desire be for His Glory Only? He who gave His Life for me.

For we commend not ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf, that ye may have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance, and not in heart. For whether we be beside ourselves, it is to God: or whether we be sober, it is for your cause. For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again. Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more. Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. II Corinthians 5: 12-19 KJV

Overcome Sinful Pride by Remembering Previous Study Above in Romans

No one of the flesh is Righteous. Absolutely No One can be saved trying to climb their way to Righteousness. Even those who do works continuously trying to redeem themselves are doing so with a self-pride. Often trying to be whom they can never be alone. Essentially what we just finished studying earlier in Romans 3 points out our inadequacies. And then shows what Christ accomplished on the cross in our behalf.

First, Jesus in dying for the glory of God upheld the value of the Glory of God. In such doing he restored what we have dishonored. Repairing the injury we have done in despising the Glory of God. What do I mean by saying we have despised the Glory of God. We do it all the time. By our actions, how often do we treat God as unimportant in our lives? We go about our days with no regard for Him. This alone suggest He is of low worth. Meanwhile, we prefer worldly pleasures and self-exaltation over His divine beauty and greatness. It is a preference for temporary things over the eternal joy and fellowship found in God. We further display this by our frustrations when He does not do it our way. As though we deserve anything from Him.

Furthermore

He absorbed the wrath of God for us. This is something we must never forget. The depth of His payment for us. He appeased God for all the condemnation that was for us and deflected it ALL upon Himself. All the guilt, all the shame, and all of what we justly deserved.

He paid the ransom for all who come to believe in Him as Lord and Savior. He did this only by His grace as our redeemer. Thereby He freed us from the guilt, condemnation, fear, and power of our own sin. Our only hope to sin less is by surrendering to the Holy Spirit, every moment of every day. Sin usually occurs when I ignore the promptings He whispers in my head.

Furthermore, God vindicated the righteousness of God Himself in His son. The righteousness of God cannot dwell with sinful man, unless the price is paid for our unrighteousness. How arrogant and proudful are we when we are fighting to do the right thing in our own flesh? And we all do it. What hypocrites are we.

Our only hope to Overcome Sinful Pride is Dying Daily to Self

Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid.For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor. For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God. I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain. Galatians 2:16-21

Yes, I truly understand how hard that can be. To die to self, so that I let Him live through me. I must allow it to be Him that shines and never seek my own Glory. Yet, it is so hard not to say, “Look what I did this week for Him.” I, we are wired that way. Always wanting at least to be noticed for what we do. But when I tell others what I do, am I not falling again into the trap of pride. Hoping to get a “wow” from someone. It is so hard to not speak of how much you give or do for the Lord. Our excuse is we want to shine a light on His work.

But the truth is we want an “attaboy” from those around us. We want to feel a little better about ourselves. Which is foolish really. Should it not be enough that God chose me before the beginning of time? Me, so prone to sinful pride. And is not sinful pride what causes me to be critical of others? Comparing myself to them, whether I realize it at the time or not. Always wanting a leg up. If we are all in the same boat. All sinners saved by Grace Alone, then what is there to compare? That is why Paul wrote, “Where is boasting, then?”

We are His Workmanship Not Our Own—Big Difference

And you hath He quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; 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: 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.But God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. Ephesians 3:1-10 KJV

Our works did not save us. Yes, we are to persist in working for Christ. But that work must come out from the workings of the Holy Spirit. Not ourselves. The same as we cannot earn our salvation. We do not truly earn our crowns by pulling up our boot straps to work for Him. Instead, we surrender and allow the Holy Spirit to work through us and thereby shining the Light fully on Christ.

The New Testament describes several types of crowns believers can receive at the judgment seat of Christ. This judgment occurs after the rapture while the tribulation is going on earth. So, this is a judgment for believers. These crowns are:

Crown of Life: For those who endure persecution and trials with faithfulness.

2. Crown of Righteousness: Given to those who love and eagerly anticipate the appearance of Jesus Christ.

3. Crown of Glory: A reward for faithful leaders, such as pastors, elders and teachers.

4. Crown of Rejoicing (or Soul-Winner’s Crown): For those who evangelize and bring others to Christ.

5. Crown of Incorruption: For those who overcome the desires of the Flesh

But here is the caveat. When we receive the crowns, we will then cast them at Jesus feet. Why? Because there we realize, He did the work when I stepped aside and let Him. I could not of my own accord do it.

The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying, Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created. Revelation 4:10-11 KJV

So, How do we Really Ever Overcome Sinful Pride

We must keep our eyes focused on Him. Then we are transformed little by little through the work of the Holy Spirit.

Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you? Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men: Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart. 2 Corinthians 3:1-3

Paul in writing to the Corinthians referred to the believers there as an epistle demonstrating the truth of the gospel of Christ. Not written with ink or human effort. But rather written by the Spirit of the living God in fleshy tables of the heart. Just as God promised in Isaiah, His law would be written on our hearts. This is His work. When I desire to sin. His Spirit convicts me. And provides the way of escape at which point I listen or I don’t. Yet, He will draw me back in, one way or another; because I am covered by the blood of Christ. I would rather listen than to have to be drawn back. Sometimes the drawing back is tough, but even that is better than marching forward in my own prideful desires.

And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward: Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think anything as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life. 2 Corinthians 3:4-6

The letter of the law only leads to death. But the spirit gives life eternal to all who accept the atoning work of Jesus Christ.

But if the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away: How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious? For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory. For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth For if that which is done away was glorious, much more that which remaineth is glorious. 2 Corinthians 3:7-11

When Moses had gone up on the Mount of Olives, his face shown so brightly that he had to wear a veil. He had been in the presence of God. God’s commandments are glorious. They are righteousness revealed. How much more glorious, His Grace toward us!

So, Now What can we do to overcome sinful pride

Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech: And not as Moses, which put a veil over his face, that the children of Israel could not stedfastly look to the end of that which is abolished: But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ. But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. 2 Corinthians 3:12-15

The veil remains unless one accepts Jesus Christ. He is the one who unveils the truth.

Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away. Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. 2 Corinthians 3:16-18

So as we look upon Him who died in our place. We behold His Glory, although dimly and there in we are being transformed, day by day. Little glories, little changes; but one day I will have His heart. No longer will there be the dark spots I now see. All my sinful pride will dissipate in the presence of His Glory. Then I will see Him face to face and fall prostrate at his feet, knowing it was only He when goodness came forth from me.

Concluding Thought

When I consider the truth of who I am. I am reminded that I can do nothing without Him and to Him is due all the Glory. Jesus said, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.

For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28-30

So, it takes me to the illustration I heard Jack Hibbs present in his sermon regarding Romans 3:26-31.

A Father Oxen working hard pulling the plow, turning all the dirt. He did the job with great skill. Alongside him was a young ox, yoked to him. His feet hardly touch the ground, held up in the air slightly by the Father’s yoke. The Father smiled as the young calf happy to see all that was being accomplished. Yet, knowing all along that only the Father was laboring.

Well that little calf is me yoked to my Lord and Savior. He does all the work, when it is good. And He through the work is sharing a tiny piece of His Glory with me. While at the same time shining forth His Magnificent Glory through me. What Grace and Mercy is That!

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

How to be Truly Justified Freely by the Blood of Jesus Christ

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2025

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the KJV Bible except where otherwise indicated

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How to be Truly Justified Freely by the Blood of Jesus Christ

August 17, 2025 Effie Barba Leave a comment

Paul presents in Romans 1:18 through Romans 3:19 this truth. All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. No one is righteous. And no one seeks God. No chance for anyone to work their way to righteousness. Yet, it is important to understand that God’s Glory is at stake. If He did not fulfill His righteousness, His justice, and His Love in dealing with the sin of humanity. How can anyone be truly justified freely? Can He remain fully just and righteous if He allows the despising of His Glory without any decree of punishment? Without Wrath?

To be truly Justified Freely, requires the shedding of blood. But if we cannot of our own volition be saved from the sin that entraps us, how can we be saved? Our justification cannot be by our own working to be better. Then how can we be freely justified? The wage of sin is death. The just decree is our death with no hope. There is no propitiation for sin, no satisfying the offense against God’s Glory, without the shedding of blood. Once dead, no chance to repent. But if the only innocent, sinless person who walked the earth freely paid the price for us. Would that be enough to declare everyone free? It would except what about those who do not believe in Him? Was He the propitiation for their sin? Did He bare their wrath as well?

Would that be Just? If Jesus bore their wrath, why should they? Or was it, He gave His life for His bride. Knowing, seeing, and loving each one of us before the earth was formed?

How Can God be the Justifier and We be Truly Justified Freely

Could it be like Boaz redeemed Ruth, Christ became our kinsmen redeemer. Or the ram caught in the thicket that died in the place of Isaac because of faith. Noah who because of faith was saved through the flood. Not because of perfect righteousness. But because He believed God. Or even Adam and Eve who did not die themselves. But were saved from sudden death by the substitutionary death of an animal from which God clothed Adam and Eve. This a representation and foreshadowing of what was to come. Jesus would take their wrath upon Himself, shed His blood, and clothe all who believe in Him with His righteousness.

How do I know their salvation was due to faith? Read this from Genesis 3.

Now they heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden. Then the Lord God called to the man, and said to him, “Where are you?” He said, “I heard the sound of You in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid myself.” And He said, “Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree from which I commanded you not to eat?” The man said, “The woman whom You gave to be with me, she gave me some of the fruit of the tree, and I ate.” Then the Lord God said to the woman, “What is this that you have done?” And the woman said, “The serpent deceived me, and I ate.” Genesis 3:8-13 NASB

Note at this point there was no true repentance. Nor was there really any hope. Yet, God had not appeared in sudden wrath. Instead, He was walking in His Shekinah Glory as He had always walked with them. It was at that point, God said,

So the LORD God said to the serpent: “Because you have done this, cursed are you above all livestock and every beast of the field! On your belly will you go, and dust you will eat, all the days of your life. And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her seed. He will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.” Genesis 3:14-15 Berean Standard Bible

At this point God foretold of Jesus Christ who was to come and crush the head of Satan.

To the woman He said,

“I will greatly multiply

Your pain in childbirth,

In pain you shall deliver children;

Yet your desire will be for your husband,

And he shall rule over you.” Genesis 3:16 NASB

He then points out that sin entered because Adam chose to listen to his wife instead of God. Instead of trusting God, Adam put his wife ahead of God. It had been Adam God told not to eat. He was to be the protector and the leader of his wife, the God given role.

Then to Adam He said, “Because you have listened to the voice of your wife, and have eaten from the tree about which I commanded you, saying, ‘You shall not eat from it’;

Cursed is the ground because of you;

With hard labor you shall eat from it

All the days of your life.

Both thorns and thistles it shall grow for you;

Yet you shall eat the plants of the field;

By the sweat of your face

You shall eat bread,

Until you return to the ground,

Because from it you were taken;

For you are dust,

And to dust you shall return.” Genesis 3:17-19 NASB

It was then that Adam named EVE (life), indicating that he understood God was sending someone through her to crush Satan’s head.

Now the man named his wife Eve, because she was the mother of all the living. And the Lord God made garments of skin for Adam and his wife and clothed them. Genesis 3:20 NASB

Now it was after Adam believed by faith that salvation was going to come by God Alone through a redeemer, then God clothed them in His righteousness because of faith. Yet, God proclaimed the salvation to come before they demonstrated faith. This is crucial to understand. Choice is present. Also, God foreordained the response of Adam and salvation comes only through the absolute Sovereign work of God alone. Even if I do not understand fully how both are true, I know the Bible teaches both as equally true. One day I will understand. Yet, this truth has been ever present from the beginning.

Justified Freely by Faith Because of the Gospel

Paul had introduced the truth that justification is by faith in Romans 1.

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

That is the good news Paul wants to share with the Romans and all the world. But before they could understand this, he spent the next verses and chapters explaining how all have sinned. None are righteous on our own. Therefore, without the gospel of Christ there is no means of salvation. Now he has returned to further explain the truth of salvation. It is apart from the law and not through the law.

now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe. For there is no difference; for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, Romans 3:21-25 NKJV

God is the only hope of Righteousness for the human race. For only He is righteous. Only He can provide a robe of righteousness to all who believe in the redemption that is in Jesus Christ. Redemption set forth by the propitiation provided by His blood, through faith. Thus allowing those who believe to be fully justified freely.

I will rejoice greatly in the Lord,

My soul will be joyful in my God;

For He has clothed me with garments of salvation,

He has wrapped me with a robe of righteousness, Isaiah 62:10 NASB

How Are We Justified Freely by Propitiation of the Blood of Jesus Christ

Propitiation is the act of appeasing or making well-disposed a deity, thus incurring divine favor or avoiding divine retribution. The word was well known throughout all the nations and all the false religions. Yet, is the word denoting payment in full for the sins of the ones seeking restitution to favor.

It was at a tremendous price. Jesus Christ came and took upon His flesh the full weight of the wrath of God against Himself. That was the struggle we saw in the Garden of Gethsemane. Yet, His love for us and His absolute surrender to the will of the Father were what drove Him to the cross. His blood was the propitiation for our sin.

My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. I John 2: 1-2 KJV

This is further explained by John McArthur in his study bible.

2:2 propitiation. Cf. 4:10. The word means “appeasement” or “satisfaction.” The sacrifice of Jesus on the cross satisfied the demands of God’s holiness for the punishment of sin (cf. Rom. 1:18; 2 Cor. 5:21; Eph. 2:3). So Jesus propitiated or satisfied God. See notes on Heb. 2:17; 9:15 for a clear illustration of propitiation. for the whole world. This is a generic term, referring not to every single individual, but to mankind in general. Christ actually paid the penalty only for those who would repent and believe. A number of Scriptures indicate that Christ died for the world (John 1:29; 3:16; 6:51; 1 Tim. 2:6; Heb. 2:9). Most of the world will be eternally condemned to hell to pay for their own sins, so they could not have been paid for by Christ. The passages which speak of Christ’s dying for the whole world must be understood to refer to mankind in general (as in Titus 2:11). “World” indicates the sphere, the beings toward whom God seeks reconciliation and has provided propitiation. God has mitigated His wrath on sinners temporarily, by letting them live and enjoy earthly life (see note on 1 Tim. 4:10). In that sense, Christ has provided a brief, temporal propitiation for the whole world. But He actually satisfied fully the wrath of God eternally only for the elect who believe. Christ’s death in itself had unlimited and infinite value because He is Holy God. Thus His sacrifice was sufficient to pay the penalty for all the sins of all whom God brings to faith. But the actual satisfaction and atonement was made only for those who believe (cf. John 10:11, 15; 17:9, 20; Acts 20:28; Rom. 8:32, 37; Eph. 5:25). The pardon for sin is offered to the whole world, but received only by those who believe (cf. 4:9, 14; John 5:24). There is no other way to be reconciled to God.

Therefore, We are Justified Freely

To be justified is a court term. Rather than being condemned we are declared not guilty. That is how we are covered by the robes of righteousness that are Jesus Christ’s robes. Covered by the blood of Christ, our sins have be covered completely. That is the only way God could remain just and allow us to be justified freely through faith. The price was paid by Jesus Christ. Therefore the Glory of God, His Righteousness remained on display.

On the way to the Garden Jesus prayed that the Glory of God the Father be revealed through Him to the world. And in thus, His own Glory restored as He returned to His throne beside the Father. Furthermore, He prayed that their Glory be shared with us who believe in him.

That is how God’s full righteousness is displayed.

A quote from Jonathan Edwards to close:

Do not presume upon the mercy of God, and so encourage yourself in sin. Many hear that God’s mercy is infinite, and therefore think, that if they delay seeking salvation for the present, and seek it later in life, that God will bestow His grace upon them. But consider, that though God’s grace is sufficient, yet He is sovereign, and will use His own pleasure to determine whether He will save you or not. If you put off salvation till the end of your life, salvation will not be in your power. It will be as a sovereign God pleases, whether you shall obtain it or not. Therefore, seeing that in this matter you are so absolutely dependent on God, it is best to follow His direction in seeking it, which is to listen to His voice, which says, “Today, if you hear My voice, do not harden your hearts” [Psalm 95:7-8].

Beware also of discouragement. Take heed of despairing thoughts, because you are a great sinner, because you have persevered so long in sin, have backslidden, and resisted the Holy Spirit. Remember that, no matter what your case may be, no matter how great a sinner you are, God can bestow mercy upon you without the least prejudice to the honor of His holiness, which you have offended, or to the honor of His majesty, which you have insulted, or of His justice, which you have made your enemy, or of His truth, or of any of His attributes. Let you be what sinner you may, God can, if He pleases, greatly glorify Himself in your salvation. Amen. Jonathan Edwards _{https://www.biblebb.com/files/edwards/je-sovereign.htm}

And please read some of J. I Packer to further understand

The particular antinomy which concerns us here is the apparent opposition between divine sovereignty and human responsibility, or (putting it more biblically) between what God does as King and what He does as Judge. Scripture teaches that, as King, He orders and controls all things, human actions among them, in accordance with His own eternal purpose (See Gen. 45:8, 1:20; Prov. 16:9, 21:1; Matt. 10:29; Acts 4:27 f.; Rom. 9:20 f.; Eph. 1:11; etc.). Scripture also teaches that, as Judge, He holds every man responsible for the choices he makes and the courses of action he pursues (See Matt. 25; Rom. 2:1-16; Rev. 20:11-13; etc.). Thus, hearers of the gospel are responsible for their reaction; if they reject the good news, they are guilty of unbelief. “He that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed…” (John 3:18; cf. Matt. 11:20-24; Acts 13:38-41; 2 Thes. 1:7-10; etc.) Again, Paul, entrusted with the gospel, is responsible for preaching it; if he neglects his commission, he is penalized for unfaithfulness. “Necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!” (1 Cor. 14:16; cf. Eze. 3:17 ff., 23:7 ff.

) God’s sovereignty and man’s responsibility are taught us side by side in the same Bible; sometimes, indeed, in the same text (E.g., Luke 22:22, “the Son of man goeth (to His death), as it was determined; but woe unto that man by whom He is betrayed’’ Cf. Acts 2:23.). Both are thus guaranteed to us by the same divine authority; both, therefore, are true. It follows that they must be held together, and not played off against each other:

Man is a responsible moral agent, though he is also divinely controlled.

Man is divinely controlled, though he is also a responsible moral agent.

God’s sovereignty is a reality, and man’s responsibility is a reality too. This is the revealed antinomy in terms of which we have to do our thinking about evangelism.

To our finite minds, of course, the thing is inexplicable. It sounds like a contradiction, and our first reaction is to complain that it is absurd. Paul notices this complaint in Romans 9. “Thou wilt say then unto me, Why does He (God) yet find fault? For who hath resisted His will?’ (Rom. 9:19). If, as our Lord, God orders all our actions, how can it be reasonable or right for Him to act also as our Judge, and condemn our shortcomings? Observe how Paul replies. He does not attempt to demonstrate the propriety of God’s action; instead, he rebukes the spirit of the question. “Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God?’ (Rom. 9:20).

The creature has no right
What the objector has to learn is that he, a creature and a sinner, has no right whatsoever to find fault with the revealed ways of God. Creatures are not entitled to register complaints about their Creator. As Paul goes on to say, God’s sovereignty is wholly just, for His right to dispose of His creatures is absolute (Rom. 9:20 f.). Earlier in the Epistle, he had shown that God’s judgment of sinners is also wholly just, since our sins richly deserve His sentence (Rom. 1:18 ff., 32; 2:1-16.).Our part, he would tell us, is to acknowledge these facts, and to adore God’s righteousness, both as King and as Judge. Our part is not to speculate as to how His just sovereignty can be consistent with His just judgment, and certainly not to call the justice of either in question because we find the problem of their relationship too hard for us. Our speculations are not the measure of our God. The Creator has told us that He is both a sovereign Lord and a righteous Judge, and that should be enough for us. Why do we hesitate to take His word for it? Can we not trust what He says?

The Creator is incomprehensible to His creatures
We ought not in any case to be surprised when we find mysteries of this sort in God’s Word⎯for the Creator is incomprehensible to His creatures. A God whom we could understand exhaustively, and whose revelation of Himself confronted us with no mysteries whatsoever, would be a God in man’s image, and therefore an imaginary God, not the God of the Bible at all. For what the God of the Bible says is this: “My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways… As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts” (Isa. 55:8 f.).

Divine Sovereignty and Human Responsibility – J. I. Packer

How both biblical truths coexist in God’s grace, by J. I. Packer, 1961

Divine Sovereignty and Human Responsibility – J. I. Packer

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

How Does the Word of God Set a Heart on Fire?

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2025

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the NKJV Bible except where otherwise indicated

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How Does the Word of God Set a Heart on Fire?

August 9, 2025 Effie Barba Leave a comment

In the previous two chapters, Paul made his case for there being no advantage to circumcision. No excuse for any male nor female not knowing, worshipping God. After all He reveals Himself throughout His creation. Yet, Paul is very aware his audience will object. Did not God call Abraham to be the father of a great nation, chosen by God Himself? Despite all they went through, God preserved them as a nation. Israel was re-established after all the years of exile (for their own rebellious hearts). But God was faithful. Watch carefully as Paul proceeds forward with his apologetic arguments to dispel their questions. And to demonstrate they had been given the greatest gift of all. The very Word of God. That alone can set a heart on Fire. But alas many did not believe. Instead, they looked to heritage, traditions and self-righteousness to be their security.

Squandering the very thing that would have, could have saved them. Their most precious possession, the oracles of God which proclaimed the gospel message of Christ from the beginning. Yet, they were blinded to the truth of the Word of God. Hence stiffening and making their heart cold rather than being flamed into a heart on fire for God and His gospel message. So, as we read these scriptures, keep in mind even Peter thought Paul was at times hard to understand. But that we must be on guard to not be carried away with error.

STEP by STEP Through the Word

Therefore, beloved, since you look for these things, be diligent to be found spotless and blameless by Him, at peace, and regard the patience of our Lord as salvation; just as also our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given him, wrote to you, as also in all his letters, speaking in them of these things, in which there are some things that are hard to understand, which the untaught and unstable distort, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures, to their own destruction. You, therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, be on your guard so that you are not carried away by the error of unscrupulous people and lose your own firm commitment, but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. 2 Peter 3:14-18 NASB

Paul Presents a series of questions and answers to address the objections raised.

Then what advantage does the Jew have? Or what is the benefit of circumcision? Romans 3:1

So, Paul did you not just finish arguing that there was no advantage in circumcision? Which is it? Are you now going to say there is? Well, yes and no. Read on.

Great in every respect. First, that they were entrusted with the actual words of God. Romans 3:2 NASB

They were given the very words of God—that was a tremendous advantage. Called out to be God’s people, but even with His words, they remained a stiff-necked, cold-hearted people. Why? Like Adam and Eve, they failed to believe the Word of God as fully true. They doubted and wanted to believe themselves to be their own Creator, not the created. Pride with all its ugly tentacles held fast. With all the scripture and prophets pointing to Christ, they hung Him on the cross. Why? Because He did not come the way they wanted Him to. But does that change who God is in any way? Not one iota!

What then? If some did not believe, their unbelief will not nullify the faithfulness of God, will it? Far from it! Rather, God must prove to be true, though every person be found a liar, as it is written:

“So that You are justified in Your words,

And prevail when You are judged.” Romans 3: 3-4 NASB

The Apologetic Arguments continue as the Word of God flames a Heart on Fire

But if our unrighteousness demonstrates the righteousness of God, what shall we say? The God who inflicts wrath is not unrighteous, is He? (I am speaking from a human viewpoint.) Romans 3:5 NASB

Ok, Paul, so you are saying we can only see God’s righteousness because of our own unrighteousness? Then is it fair that God would show wrath toward us for our unrighteousness? He needs us to demonstrate His righteousness. This question will continue to build until we reach chapter 9. So don’t think we will fully answer here. but we will step by step as we proceed. For now, we see Paul’s first answer.

Far from it! For otherwise, how will God judge the world? Romans 3:6 NASB

He can judge the world because He is perfect righteousness. We are but broken clay pots. Yet we think of ourselves as fine Porcelain China. As though deserving all His Goodness for our own attempts to prove our goodness.

But if through my lie the truth of God abounded to His glory, why am I also still being judged as a sinner? And why not say (just as we are slanderously reported and as some claim that we say), “Let’s do evil that good may come of it”? Their condemnation is deserved. Romans 3:7-8 (NASB)

How often do I or we look at someone else and cry out, “Condemned!”?

So, does just reading the Word of God put a heart on fire?

What then? Are we better than they? Romans 3:9a NASB

So, by being given the Word of God, are we better than anyone else? Growing up in a Christian nation or in a church saves us? Or are we the same? Are we better because God called us to be His child?

Not at all; for we have already charged that both Jews and Greeks are all under sin; as it is written: Romans 3:9b-10 NASB

Then Paul quotes Old Testament scripture to include Psalms 14, Psalm 5:9, Psalm 10, Isaiah 59, Jeremiah 6:14, and Psalm 36:1,

“There is no righteous person, not even one;

There is no one who understands,

There is no one who seeks out God;

They have all turned aside, together they have become [i]corrupt;

There is no one who does good,

There is not even one.”

“Their throat is an open grave,

With their tongues they keep deceiving,”

“The venom of asps is under their lips”;

“Their mouth is full of cursing and bitterness”;

“Their feet are swift to shed blood,

Destruction and misery are in their paths,

And they have not known the way of peace.”

“There is no fear of God before their eyes.” Romans 3: 11-18 NASB

That pretty much sums up the argument. We are all lost and unable to fulfill any part of the law because we have wicked hearts.

Why Do We who know the Word of God, struggle the most?

Now we know that whatever the Law says, it speaks to those who are under the Law, so that every mouth may be closed and all the world may become accountable to God; because by the works of the Law none of mankind will be justified in His sight; for through the Law comes knowledge of sin. Romans 3:19-20 NASB

To Bring this all home:

The longer I walk with God, the more I realize the depth of my own inadequacies and my own sins. The more wondrous the Word of God becomes to me. Its preciousness in revealing Him, the more I see of my own sin. The thoughts that wander into my brain. Thoughts condemning another for the very things I too do. Or the moment of happiness (however brief) I feel when someone faces the same trials they had perpetrated toward me.

Those thoughts came full circle for me on Thursday. That morning, my reading took me to Psalm 94 and I wept under the weight of it. Yet, with an underlying peace because I knew it was God who held me up even then. That is when I wrote this poem. Writing poetry transports my mind back to the reality of the wondrous Word of God. Then I am reminded how only He can set my heart on fire for Him.

Desire a Love on Fire

Broken vessels are we all

Cling tight, O Lord lest I should fall

Whatever part of darkness lies

Within this heart so well disguised

Oh God remove the pride, the stain

That only You within remain

Oh Lord I plead my one desire

A Passion for Your love on fire

For only if You hear my plea

Cut out the darkness that is me

And let Your Spirit shine forth free

Remove the dross that I now see

Of all the pride hid deep within

That binds this heart with its own sin

My Gracious Lord I know Your love for me

Has heard my cry my earnest plea

For by Your Grace, Your love divine

That saved this wretched heart of mine

And day by day your work within

Transforming me, I might not sin

Oh, hold me tight within your arms

For there I’m safe from any harms

Your faithful promises I see

For You, dear Lord have chosen me

And on this hope my soul shall rest

You only bring to me Your best

And if the shadows do surround

In You my hope and joy are found

Let all the mountains rise in song

And to Your throne my anthems throng

My hope, my love, my one desire

Come set this heart of mine on fire

That all of whom I meet today

Will see Your Grace on full display

So, Why Is It at Times Harder for Us Who Know Him?

In a sense, like my son told me today, “we feel the weight of our sin. Knowing our only hope is Him. The more I know of the Word of God, the less I admire me. When anyone sees the overly tired, bald, fat grouchy guy–well that is when they see the real me. But when I seem to rise above that, showing mercy, forgiveness, and grace. Well that is when you are seeing God in me. He is my hope of Glory and only He is.”

I agree wholeheartedly with that. When this tired old woman becomes too quickly frustrated and irritated by the actions of others, well that is me. After 65 years of knowing Him as Lord and Savior. I would have hoped she was fully buried so only His Spirit shines through. Yet, that is not the case. She very much is alive in me. I see her all too often suddenly become irritated by unimportant things. Or snap over foolish things. Letting my feelings hide the wondrous truth of who He is. Every detail of my life is in His hands. Therefore, knowing this, I should never be frustrated. True faith never allows such moments.

My prayer is God shoves me aside whenever He needs to so He can shine through. I do not want to dishonor His name and His Glory. So please Lord, keep shoving me aside whenever I get in the way of Your Glory. One glorious day, standing before Him, I will truly have His heart on fire. Until that moment Lord, do whatever it takes to transform this heart to one that can love as You do. Break me, mold me, change me to thy will.

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is in Him.

Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Click here to go to my page titled How to Be Saved. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

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If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

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Empower Your Heart to Dispel Darkness by Light How?

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2025

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. That is except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the NKJV Bible except where otherwise indicated

BSB (BEREAN STUDY BIBLE)

The Berean Bible and Majority Bible texts are officially dedicated to the public domain as of April 30, 2023.

English Standard Version (ESV)

Pictures licensed by Goodsalt.com

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Empower Your Heart to Dispel Darkness by Light How?

August 2, 2025 Effie Barba Leave a comment

The Secret to Empower your heart to dispel darkness is hidden within these 12 verses in Romans 2. It is God’s light. At first glance you think Paul is merely rounding out his argument for why the Jews are also sinners. They too will face judgment if they deny Christ. True. Paul is continuing to make his case here; but there are so many additional truths embedded here. Certainly, I don’t want any of us to miss the depths of truth hidden here. This is not only true of the Jews who relied on their heritage to be their salvation. However, this is also true for anyone who puts their reliance in anything for their salvation apart from Jesus Christ.

Some think they are saved by having grown up in a Christian home. Yet without a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, in what can they boast? They are in no better position than the sinner who grew up in atheistic home. Both are equally sinners. Others think by joining a church, they are saved. Furthermore, some think baptism saved them. Or maybe they walked an aisle caught up in the crowd with no personal conversion. Some believe they are living a good life and that is enough.

So I think we need to take a deep dive into the truth of these verses. Furthermore, we will review how the gentile believers also become heirs of Abraham. They are grafted into the family of Abraham through adoption by God the Father.

Can You Dispel Darkness by knowing the Law?

But if you call yourself a Jew and rely upon the Law. Romans 2:17a NASB

Most of the Jewish people in that day believed their knowledge of the law and sacrifices were enough. Of this Paul was very aware. After all he is a Jew. He was better versed in Old Testament Scripture than most.

For you have heard of my former manner of life in Judaism, how I used to persecute the church of God beyond measure, and tried to destroy it; and I was advancing in Judaism beyond many of my contemporaries among my countrymen, being more extremely zealous for my ancestral traditions. But when He who had set me apart, even from my mother’s womb, and called me through His grace, was pleased to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately consult with flesh and blood, nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me; but I went away to Arabia, and returned once more to Damascus. Galatians 1:13-17 (NASB)

When Paul was called by God he accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. He knew the law was not enough. The law he knew. Instead, he was taken away to be trained in the Gospel by Jesus Christ, himself.

For I would have you know, brethren, that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to man. For I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but I received it through a revelation of Jesus Christ. Galatians 1:11-12 (NASB)

Knowing the scripture is not enough for us either. Regardless of how much we have been in churches listening and studying scripture. Not enough. Without the working of the Holy Spirit within us we cannot dispel darkness. And that is only possible if we have accepted God’s gift of salvation. What gift? The gospel of salvation by faith due to the redeeming work of Jesus Christ on the Cross.

Or Can you boast in God because of ethnicity?

Most of the Jews in that time believed that they had an automatic ticket into heaven because of their heritage. Some would boast in God as having chosen them as the elected people. It was taught that in Abraham’s Bosom they were given a free pass. Some believe that because they grew up in a family of Pastors, they have an automatic pass into heaven. But Paul continues the argument here.

Ok, since you know the Law and Boast in God, then you are saying: you know His will and distinguish the things that matter, being instructed from the Law. (Indeed you), are confident that you yourself are a guide to people who are blind, a light to those in darkness, a corrector of the foolish, a teacher of the immature, possessing in the Law the embodiment of knowledge and of the truth Romans 2: 17-20 NASB

Is that not the perfect picture of the Pharisees and Sadducees of which Paul had been one. Is it not also the perfect picture of those who study and profess to know God? Or of the moral spiritualists who proclaim they know how to dispel darkness. While teaching their humanistic philosophies on how to transform your life with self-meditation. Placing self and feelings first above all else. To them he asked,

You, therefore, who teach someone else, do you not teach yourself? You who preach that one is not to steal, do you steal? You who say that one is not to commit adultery, do you commit adultery? You who loathe idols, do you rob temples? Romans 2:21-22 NASB

So, do they dispel darkness or create more darkness?

God had instructed the Jewish Nation from the beginning to be lights into the Gentile world around them. Instead, often they incorporated the Pagan worship of their neighbors. So, often we too try to blend in with the world around us. When we must hold true to the word of God ourselves. We become wishy-washy in our faith. You must not be a gay, but if I commit adultery, well that is not so bad. Is not sexual sin, sexual sin? Or we might condemn someone for going to a bar. But then we go to watch a concert where the singer is half naked and gyrating while singing vulgar songs. Or what about that show on Netflix that includes blasphemy against God by the actions and words. But we watch it anyway. But that is entertainment. Right?

So, what was the response here?

You who boast in the Law, through your breaking the Law, do you dishonor God? For “the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you,” Romans 2: 23-24 NASB

In fact, we dispel darkness to block the light when we choose to participate in that which dishonors God.

Can We Dispel Darkness By Cutting It Out Ourselves?

For indeed circumcision is of value if you practice the Law; but if you are a violator of the Law, your circumcision has turned into uncircumcision. So, if the uncircumcised man keeps the requirements of the Law, will his uncircumcision not be regarded as circumcision? And he who is physically uncircumcised, if he keeps the Law, will he not judge you who though having the letter of the Law and circumcision are a violator [ae]of the Law? or he is not a Jew who is one outwardly, nor is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh. Romans 2:25-28 NASB

I do hope to not get too caught up in the weeds here; because there are two lines of thought we need to understand. However, there is one major conclusion from this, when we make it to verse 29. So, please hold in there with me.

First, yes Paul is talking about gentiles being grafted into the line of Abraham. Not all of God’s plans for the future concerning Israel include us. Example being during the tribulation after we have been raptured. At that time, He has a plan to open the hearts and eyes of the Jewish nation.

Just as Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness. Therefore, recognize that it is those who are of faith who are sons of Abraham. The Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel beforehand to Abraham, saying, “All the nations will be blessed in you.” So then, those who are of faith are blessed with Abraham, the believer. Galatians 3: 6-9 NASB

Also look at this one

But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, although a wild olive shoot, were grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing root of the olive tree, do not be arrogant toward the branches. If you are, remember it is not you who support the root, but the root that supports you. Then you will say, “Branches were broken off so that I might be grafted in.” That is true. They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand fast through faith. So do not become proud, but fear. For if God did not spare the natural branches, neither will he spare you.

Note then the kindness and the severity of God: severity toward those who have fallen, but God’s kindness to you, provided you continue in his kindness. Otherwise, you too will be cut off. And even they, if they do not continue in their unbelief, will be grafted in, for God has the power to graft them in again. For if you were cut from what is by nature a wild olive tree, and grafted, contrary to nature, into a cultivated olive tree, how much more will these, the natural branches, be grafted back into their own olive tree. Galatians 3:17-24 ESV

How then Do We Dispel Darkness?

Often, we may think some act of attrition is what leads to our being able to fulfill the law. Yet, Paul says that only those who keep the law can be said to be truly circumcised. So, is he saying that some do keep the law? No, not really. He goes on to say.

But he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the letter; and his praise is not from people, but from God. Romans 2:29 NASB

What does all that mean? Nothing that we can do on the outside can transform our hearts or help us to keep the law. Instead, it is a circumcision of the heart by the Holy Spirit. I cannot change myself.

Moreover, the Lord your God will circumcise your heart and the hearts of your descendants, to love the Lord your God with all your heart and all your soul, so that you may live. Deuteronomy 30:6

I will give them one heart and put a new spirit within them. And I will remove the heart of stone from their flesh and give them a heart of flesh, so that they may walk in My statutes, and keep My ordinances and do them. Then they will be My people, and I shall be their God. Ezekiel 11:19-20 NASB

Only the Holy Spirit’s Circumcision of our hearts can Transform our heart from darkness to light.

But now apart from the Law the righteousness of God has been revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, but it is the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all those who believe; for there is no distinction, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus, whom God displayed publicly as a propitiation in His blood through faith. This was to demonstrate His righteousness, because in God’s merciful restraint He let the sins previously committed go unpunished; for the demonstration, that is, of His righteousness at the present time, so that He would be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. Romans 3:22-26 NASB

To Dispel the Darkness we must first be Justified by Faith

Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we also have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we celebrate in hope of the glory of God. And not only this, but we also celebrate in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will hardly die for a righteous person; though perhaps for the good person someone would even dare to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him. For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. And not only this, but we also celebrate in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation. Romans 5:1-11 NASB

Then Guided by the Holy Spirit

the Helper, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and remind you of all that I said to you. John 14:26 NASB

So, Our only way to live the Law is with the Holy Spirit Transforming us

But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. For the desire of the flesh is against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, in order to keep you from doing whatever you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law. Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: sexual immorality, impurity, indecent behavior, idolatry, witchcraft, hostilities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let’s follow the Spirit as well. Let’s not become boastful, challenging one another, envying one another. Galatians 5:16-25 (NASB)

That is the only way we can dispel the darkness. We do it by shining forth the light of the gospel of Jesus Christ to a world in need. And the only way we can is by the work of the Holy Spirit within us

This week someone said to me, “You are a good person. Then I thought of the moments of anger, jealousy, the failures along the way. People I have hurt. Then, I said, “No not really. But when you see good, you are seeing the Goodness of God shining through this broken pieces of my heart.” You can place a light inside a beautiful vessel. But the light inside can never dispel any darkness until a piece is broken away. For the light of Christ to shine forth we must have a circumcision of the heart. The Holy Spirit knows exactly where to break our hearts so He might fill us with His Gifts. Our hearts He fills to overflowing with Joy, Patience, love, gentleness, kindness, peace, and goodness. He writes the laws of God on our hearts. Then we have Self-control. He will Guide our every step and one day take us safely home.

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

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If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

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Heaven’s Requirements are? The Truth About Faith and Good Deeds

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the NKJV Bible except where otherwise indicated

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Heaven’s Requirements are? The Truth About Faith and Good Deeds

July 26, 2025 Effie Barba Leave a comment

Last week we studied chapter two. At that time, I provided an example from life illustrating the absolute justice of God in His condemnation of sinful man. Whether that be those who have not been given the law nor the gospel. However, by nature God gives them a glimpse of light. They either suppress that light or reach toward it. Those who reach toward the slightest glimmer of light, God takes the responsibility to in their lifetime allow them to hear the truth of the gospel. He ascertains; His justice is never tainted by even minuscule sub particles of injustice. Everything is about His absolute perfect Glory in every aspect of His being. Therefore, I do believe we need to spend a bit longer on Romans 2:4-11. Some find these verses confusing. Precisely regarding what Heaven’s requirements are. What is the truth about faith and good deeds for salvation?

At first glance it appears to suggest that good deeds can lead to eternal life. Yet that does not coincide with the entirety of scripture. Therefore, I do believe that we should take a deeper dive into these scriptures. Paul placed this argument with great precision. Indeed, he used a form of writing called a chiasm which I will explain in more detail later. Let us look at the overall purpose of Romans 1:1 to 3:20. These verses are to build the case that no one is righteous. No not one. Until he establishes this, Paul cannot move forward to justification by faith. Then why the remarkable emphasis here on what sounds like a works judgement to get into heaven. But I contend it appears that way only at first glance. Particularly once we consider other verses by Paul, Jesus, James and John.

Heaven’s Requirements: Where do you stand on faith and good Deeds?

Briefly let me tell you what some of the renown pastors think. Many believe that this is a hypothetical because no one can live up to righteousness. But after much thought and study. I tend to agree with John Piper who sees this differently, when considering the other scriptures. So, we will review these scriptures to help us properly use Inductive methods (scripture interpreting scripture). As well as considering exigesis (what it means in Paul’s day). And hermeneutics (what that means for us today). Only then can we rightly divide these verses.

But first let us look at the chiasm and what that is.

A chiasm (also called a chiasmus) is a literary device in which a sequence of ideas is presented and then repeated in reverse order. The result is a “mirror” effect as the ideas are “reflected” back in a passage. Each idea is connected to its “reflection” by a repeated word, often in a related form. The term chiasm comes from the Greek letter chi, which looks like our letter X

_{¹ what is a chiasm, Got-Questions website; https://www.gotquestions.org/chiasm-chiastic.html; accessed 7/26/2025}

This presents a case arguments in order, such as A-B-C-D-X and then reverse order to return to the main conclusion.

Chiastic Argument in Romans 2

A. revelation of the righteous judgment of God, who “will render to each one according to his deeds”

B. eternal life (What will they receive?)

C. to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality (1^st group of people)

D. but to those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness (2^nd group of people—evil)

X. indignation and wrath, tribulation and anguish (what the second group receive)

D. on every soul of man who does evil, of the Jew first and also of the Greek. (Who is group two that gets tribulation and anguish

C. everyone who works what is good, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. (to whom? Group 1)

B. but glory, honor, and peace to (what does group 1 get?)

A. For there is no partiality with God.

So, what was the main reasoning behind this? The righteous judgment of God is perfect with no partiality to be found.

Chapter one of Romans was explaining why the Gentile nations had no excuse. Whereas, Chapter 2 was dealing with the Jewish people. After reading chapter one, the Jews were quite snug as a bug in a rug would be. So, they thought. But truth be told, they relied on heritage, tradition, rituals etc. Example: “Well I am descendant of Abraham. I did take the sacrificial lamb to the priest that time. Never have I failed like those gentiles over there.”

What about in our day? Well, I must be saved. I walked the aisle that time and prayed that prayer. Certainly, I am not as bad as those people over there. After all, I pay my taxes. Do not cheat on my wife. Maybe I look, but never do anything. I do not beat my children. And sometimes I even put money in the offering plate.

To all them, Paul is building the case for “there is none righteous, no not one.” That is of their own merit. So what about this statement? “eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality.” This with the echoing notation of “glory, honor, and peace to everyone who works what is good.

Scripture to Help Guide Us to see Heaven’s Requirements.

Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. Galatians 6:7-8

Yet, just before this he wrote in Galatians 5:4-5

You have become estranged from Christ, you who attempt to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace. For we through the Spirit eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness by faith.

Or from the book of James:

But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does. James 1:22-25

Or again note

But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble! But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead? Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered Isaac his son on the altar? Do you see that faith was working together with his works, and by works faith was made perfect? And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.” And he was called the friend of God. You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only. James 2: 18-24

And Jesus said:

He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him. John 14: 21

Heaven’s Requirements? Look at these two verse to help us understand Faith vs works

Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away. And there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books. The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works. Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire. Revelation 20: 11-15

Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now 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 do for His good pleasure. Philippians 2:12-13 NKJV

So, Now Let’s Try to Land this Plane Concerning Heaven’s Requirements

From today’s verses and the focus verses in Romans 2, I think these three major points have been illustrated.

First Point:

Eternal life is to those who those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality. Whose glory, honor, and immortality? Must we say not our own? I do NOT believe so. We know that it is not self-glory; but, where is it right to seek our own glory, honor, and immortality? When we are doing it to reflect the glory, honor, and immortality of Jesus Christ to a dying world. Also, like a small child desires to win the prize. Not just for himself. But to “make his daddy proud and bring honor to the family name.” Furthermore, Christian hedonism teaches. “God is most glorified when we are most satisfied in Him.” John Piper, Desiring God Ministries.

Am I not awaiting for my crowns in glory? Certainly there are five crowns we are awaiting. Those are:

Clothed in Christ’s own righteousness, one day we will receive rewards for every good work we have accomplished in His name. The Bible clearly lists at least five crowns that will be awarded in heaven.

    The first crown is the Victor’s Crown. This crown will be awarded to those who discipline their minds through the study of God’s Word and prayer (1 Corinthians 9:25–27).

    The second is the Crown of Rejoicing, which will be given to those who have led others to Christ (1 Thessalonians 2:19).

    The third is the Crown of Righteousness, which will be given to those who have a longing for the Lord Jesus—who look for Jesus’ return (2 Timothy 4:8).

    The fourth is the Crown of Life, placed upon those who have endured and triumphed over trial and temptation and persecution, even to the point of martyrdom (James 1:12; Revelation 2:10).

    The fifth is the Crown of Glory, awarded to the faithful shepherds of the people of God and to Christian leaders (1 Peter 5:4).

_{David Jeremiah; Royal Rewards: 5 Crowns for Believers, https://www.davidjeremiah.org/age-of-signs/royal-rewards-5-crowns-for-believers?id=4&srsltid=AfmBOoqkcKm2HuhZ7OcdTRU2WfUQAMxC6ScNBzeFwPG_fBZ4DLBHvz82}

Out of love, devotion, humble gratitude for all He is; yes, I patiently, willingly, obediently continue in doing good. And yes, through that I seek honor, glory, and immortality to lay at the feet of Jesus, my King. However, feeble my attempts, I seek these things. My salvation cannot be merely; I said a prayer and walked away to do what I please. If I do not fully hunger to be like Him, then, am I His? My broken body, heart, and soul moans for the day I shall see Him face to face. That day that I will finally be like Him. When my heart loves like His does.

Nevertheless, when one turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord. 2 Corinthians 3:16-18

2^nd Point on Heaven’s Requirements

Seeking honor, glory, and immortality is not a bad thing. It all depends on perspective. We are to desire hope, joy and peace in our Lord and Savior without settling for mediocre heart responses.

It would seem that Our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased.

C.S. Lewis, The Weight of Glory,

_{https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/702-it-would-seem-that-our-lord-finds-our-desires-not};_{accessed 7/27/2025}

So, yes dear friends, let our desires be to experience the infinite joy found in Jesus Christ Alone. A joy beyond what we could imagine. Steady, abiding joy that undergirds everything that we do in this world. Sustained by the faith and strength given us by the Holy Spirit indwelling us. What an amazing gift of Grace we have!!

3rd point on Heaven’s Requirements.

We can only achieve this through the redeeming work of Jesus Christ. I cannot on my own. It is His work working through me. So, I must cling everyday to the only one True Savior. He, who through the work of the Holy Spirit can keep me. That is faith. Believing against all odds that He will accomplish in me all that He has planned for me. How can I believe that? He has already shown me day by day. What a miracle that amid a chaotic, sin ridden world; I have peace and joy abiding deep within my heart. Oh, how I long for the day when everyone who sees me thinks of Jesus first using words from St. Patrick’s prayer.

St Patrick’s Prayer:

I arise today

Through the strength of heaven;

Light of the sun,

Splendor of fire,

Speed of lightning,

Swiftness of the wind,

Depth of the sea,

Stability of the earth,

Firmness of the rock.

I arise today

Through God’s strength to pilot me;

God’s might to uphold me,

God’s wisdom to guide me,

God’s eye to look before me,

God’s ear to hear me,

God’s word to speak for me,

God’s hand to guard me,

God’s way to lie before me,

God’s shield to protect me,

God’s hosts to save me

Afar and anear,

Alone or in a multitude.

Christ shield me today

Against wounding

Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me,

Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me,

Christ on my right, Christ on my left,

Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit down,

Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,

Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,

Christ in the eye that sees me,

Christ in the ear that hears me.

I arise today

Through the mighty strength

Of the Lord of creation.