Blog

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.

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

Understanding the Absolute Justice of God in the Light of His Goodness. 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 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

Blog

Understanding the Absolute Justice of God in the Light of His Goodness. How?

July 19, 2025 Effie Barba Leave a comment

How often do we get lost in the light of His Goodness thereby forgetting the Absolute Justice of God? For example. We sin a little bit in some area. His grace and love cover us. And we do not face any punishment. At least that we see. Then overtime, we become a little more daring. We rest so assuredly in the Light of His Goodness, that we become cavalier in our approach to His Justice. He saved me from my sin and clothed me in the righteousness of Christ. Therefore, should I think, “I do not fear the consequences of my sin”? Instead, if I do truly recognize His Goodness is what called me to Him. Would that not mean I owe Him everything, including my heart, my mind, and my desires?

Sometimes, we face illness, suffering or loss and say, “Why God? I don’t deserve this! Haven’t I followed you?”. Ah but the truth is I deserve eternal death, were it not for the Grace and Goodness of God. He gave His only begotten son to die to pay the price for my sin. Nothing I have done could ever meet with His standards of righteousness. How often have I failed Him? Or I failed to show His grace to others? Particularly when I have felt betrayed? So often I have judged others without cause. When I sacrificially give, sometimes I expect gratitude or praise in return. When that happens, am I not doing the right thing for the wrong reason? Do I always do it to bring only God Glory? Or sometimes do I start out doing it for God. Then inside I desire glory for me. Is that not an example of forgetting His Goodness?

The world also ignores the gracious goodness of God. When they blaspheme His name. He does not open the earth to swallow them immediately. Is that not proof of His Goodness. But, alas they do not see it.

The Absolute Justice of God—from the beginning.

When God created the heaven and the earth, He created Adam and Eve. He gave them everything they needed and walked daily in the garden with them. But because love cannot be love without choice, He gave them one command. You may not eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. For the day you do you shall surely die. Spiritually, they did die. But he did not take their physical life immediately from them do to the light of His Goodness toward them. Yet, amid the light of His goodness, He provided a way of salvation. That salvation did cost the life of a substitutionary animal to begin with. This would symbolize the salvation He planned to provide through His Only Begotten Son’s payment for their sin.

Yet, recognizing the light of His goodness, Cain believed he could present to God whatever. In his abuse of God’s goodness, he became angry when God refused his “gift”. It was clear. Most certainly his parents would have told him the horror of death entering the world. But just as we see so many moralists of our day. Cain wanted God to accept his ideals of morals rather than he accept God’s righteous command. The wages of sin are death. No substitute of works would do. Even then God offered him a chance to repent. To do the right thing. He warned him that sin was crouching at the door of his heart, but he did not heed the warning. Therefore, he seethed in his self-pity and anger which grew until he killed his brother. Then, after that, he protested his punishment too great, although God’s mercy allowed him to live.

The Absolute Justice of God Presented

As we turn to chapter 2 of Romans, Paul presents his case meticulously for the Absolute Justice of God. He had just completed the description of mankind’s spiraling downward away from God’s grace in Chapter 1. God had revealed Himself throughout the ages by many means. He presented the depth of His wrath in the Flood. As well as in Sodom and Gomorrah, and while dealing with the rebellious people both in Israel and the world. How often He demonstrated His wrath so they would know He is a Just and Righteous God! There is no unholiness within Him. Meanwhile, He also demonstrated His Long-suffering nature and His Goodness.

Yet, after describing the wickedness of debauchery from sexual sin, Paul turns to the self-righteous hypocrites. Those who declare themselves righteous by their own deeds.

Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things. Romans 2:1 NKJV

The absolute Justice of God includes knowledge. If you consider yourself capable of judging another you have declared, you know what is right and wrong. Therefore, when you sin you do so knowingly, willingly, and with foreknowledge. Furthermore, often the self-righteous are proclaiming. “I am not as bad as he or she is; therefore, God is not concerned with my sin.” But God does not categorize sin in degrees as we do. Sin is sin. All sin falls short of the Glory of God. He is perfectly holy and can not pardon any sin and remain perfectly just. Therefore, all sin requires death. That is why, in the light of His Goodness, Jesus died to pay the price of sin for all who believe in Him as their only means of Salvation.

The Absolute Justice of God Based on Truth

But we know that the judgment of God is according to truth against those who practice such things. Romans 2:2 NKJV

Abraham Lincoln once said, “”You can fool some of the people all of the time, and all of the people some of the time, but you cannot fool all of the people all the time”

_{¹ https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/275126-you-can-fool-some-of-the-people-all-of-the; accessed 7/19/2025}

People often live lives of deception, presenting themselves as what they are not. But God sees the heart. He judges with truth. Indeed, He sees my heart with greater clarity than I can. I may think my motive to be pure, even when it clearly is not when examined by His perfect eyes.

But we can be certain His assessment and judgment is perfect.

And do you think this, O man, you who judge those practicing such things, and doing the same, that you will escape the judgment of God? Romans 2: 3 NKJV

How is it that we think we can fool God? How many religious people say they know Christ but don’t? Or moralists who claim themselves righteous in their judgement; but, base nothing on God’s word?

The Absolute Justice of God Due to Abusing and Despising His Goodness

Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance? Romans 2:4 NKJV

Remember, God had displayed His Goodness and long-suffering nature, desiring Cain’s repentance. But alas Cain abused His Goodness demanding more kindness and no punishment. But how often do we do the same?

Instead of Proclaiming His Goodness during times of difficulty, we become angry with God. Why? We know in His wisdom and love, He chooses to allow hardship in our lives. There amid the trials, He reveals the depth of His Love and kindness to us. If only we could see where it all will lead us. And sometimes our greatest witness and testimony is His faithfulness through the trials. Therefore, it may be for the Good of the Kingdom.

Furthermore, despite God demonstrating His Wrath and His Goodness, so many ignore Him. They abuse His kindness. How often do you hear His name used in vain? Sometimes, I wish He would open up the earth and swallow them as He did Korah. But if He did, what about me? How could I be left standing? I should be just so overwhelmed by His Mercy and Kindness to me that I see others through His eyes.

The Absolute Justice of God Does Look Deep within the Heart

But in accordance with your hardness and your impenitent heart you are treasuring up for yourself wrath in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God. Romans 2:5

God’s justice will be fair. Each will be accountable to Him for the number of times they have refused to repent. Will there be degrees in Hell? Certainly, I believe so. But best not to go there to find out. Better to repent now instead of building up wrath continuously until then. Those who have been given much, much is required. Jesus spoke this in a Parable

And the Lord said, “Who then is the faithful and sensible steward, whom his master will put in charge of his servants, to give them their rations at the proper time? Blessed is that slave whom his master finds so doing when he comes. Truly I say to you that he will put him in charge of all his possessions. But if that slave says in his heart, ‘My master will take a long time to come,’ and he begins to beat the other slaves, both men and women, and to eat and drink and get drunk; then the master of that slave will come on a day that he does not expect, and at an hour that he does not know, and will cut him in two, and assign him a place with the unbelievers.

And that slave who knew his master’s will and did not get ready or act in accordance with his will, will receive many blows, but the one who did not know it, and committed acts deserving of a beating, will receive only a few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and to whom they entrusted much, of him they will ask all the more. “I have come to cast fire upon the earth; and how I wish it were already kindled! But I have a baptism to undergo, and how distressed I am until it is accomplished! Luke 12: 42-50 NASB

Jesus will return in judgment. He saw the sin then. And He wished righteousness could reign immediately. But not before He would take all the wrath, die and be resurrected again. His love overshadowing His hatred of sin until the time is come. In His humanity, He felt the overwhelming sadness that we sometimes feel looking at the world. We groan for His return. But we know He will when the time is right.

The Absolute Justice of God is Fair without Partiality of Persons

who “will render to each one according to his deeds”: eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality but to those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness—indignation and wrath, tribulation and anguish, on every soul of man who does evil, of the Jew first and also of the Greek; but glory, honor, and peace to everyone who works what is good, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For there is no partiality with God. Romans 2:6-11 (NKJV)

So, are we to think our deeds can save us? Absolutely not! But our deeds can be the outward expression of the heart. The phrase “eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality” is referring to the “new heart” given to true believers. They are seeking the glory, honor and immortality of God within them. Not that good works leads to salvation; but, can be the manifestation of a truly transformed heart. Only God Himself, who sees the heart, can rightly judge all people. Yet, we should be able to see some fruit of their salvation.

The Absolute Justice of God in the World

Some would say that it is unfair if someone never has the chance to hear the gospel. But God ascertains, that all who are born are given a moment of God awareness. Punishment degree will be based fairly by a just God.

For as many as have sinned without law will also perish without law, and as many as have sinned in the law will be judged by the law (for not the hearers of the law are just in the sight of God, but the doers of the law will be justified; for when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do the things in the law, these, although not having the law, are a law to themselves, who show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and between themselves their thoughts accusing or else excusing them) in the day when God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to my gospel. Romans 2: 12-16 NKJV

A real life example

I took this excerpt from a sermon of John McArthur. It presents clearly how God displays to every person a knowledge of Himself. John McArthur went to be with His Lord and Savior this week. But I do believe the testimony he shared here says it so clearly, it must be included in this note.

“The sum of it is this, people: Creation, conduct, conscience, contemplation, what they do, how they deal with the good and bad in their own life and how they deal with it in the lives of others indicates that they know the law of God as written in them. Now, here is the most important thing I’ve said yet. The sum of it is this: If they live up to that much light, and they accept that much light, God will reveal to them the full light of Jesus Christ. I believe that with all my heart. You see, that’s what it says in Acts 17, “He is not far from us if we would feel after Him.” You see? If they would just take what they have and accept that. John 7:17 – mark it down. “If any man wills to do My Father’s Will, he shall know of the teaching.” If the willing heart is there, he’ll know.

We had a living illustration of this in our church the last week, a man by the name of Augustus Marway. Some of you came on Wednesday night and heard his testimony. He is proof positive of this, and I have his testimony, and I’m just going to read a few excerpts from it. This man lived in a village involved in tribal wars. Never put a stitch of clothes on his body until he was 14. In a most aboriginal circumstance in Africa. And this is his own testimony.

‘I resented it whenever strangers passing through the village were invited to our house. At first Mother allowed me and my two brothers to eat with the guest, but I made a pig of myself, stuffing my mouth with handfuls of rice and grabbing another handful before I could even swallow what I had. Mother was ashamed of me. She wouldn’t let me eat with the guests after that. I would just sit and glare at the visitors, making them feel uncomfortable until they would invite me to the table.

From then on, Mother made me sit outside the house until the guests had finished eating. I don’t know what made me so incorrigible. In fact, the whole village asked the question, “What’s the matter with that son of Marway?” they would ask and my poor parents were at their wits’ end.

Even though I loved my mother dearly, I found myself doing terrible things. I can remember seeing her sitting on a bench outside the house and impulsively picking up a stick to throw at her legs. I missed her and struck a little child, hurting him badly.

At times like that, the villagers would join my parents in meting out a punishment. That time, they held me down on the ground by my legs and my arms while they poured a bowl of hot pepper soup down my nose. I nearly choked to death, and for hours afterward my nose burned.’

There’s a new one for you, mom and dad. If Campbell’s only knew. Let me stop in this testimony for a moment. Why did that tribe of aboriginal people who never heard about the true God, who never heard of the gospel, never heard the name Jesus, why did they punish a young boy for throwing a stick and hurting a child? Why? Who told them that was wrong? Why did this young man feel guilty? He told us when he talked to our staff one day, he said, “My heart was broken every day because I loved my mother and I knew she was ashamed of me, but I couldn’t correct my behavior.” Why did he feel that way? Where did he get to feel that guilt? Where did that come from? And why was his mother ashamed of him? Who told her what the standard was?

He goes on: ‘I couldn’t understand myself. After one of those episodes, I would go off into the forest and pound my head against a tree, crying, “What’s wrong with me? I should kill myself.” I hated being the white sheep of the family.

All depends on your perspective.

He says: ‘But one day when I was about twelve years old, a boy returned to our village from the coast where he had been visiting his father. By the way, that was a long, long, long journey by foot. None of us younger ones had ever seen the ocean, so we crowded around him to hear all about it. It was as though he had been to the moon and back. Enjoying the acclaim, he kept us spellbound with his experiences as he recounted the strange things he saw. Among other things, he told us about how some people on the coast met together in a house on Sundays and they sang and stayed a long time.

He couldn’t figure out what they were doing, and finally his curiosity got the better of him, so he asked one of the villagers, “What do you do in there for such a long time?” They told him they were praying to God, the God who created everything, and they said they believed He heard their prayers.

I had never heard anything like this. A God who hears your prayers? It excited me. And I wanted to pray to God, too. I asked the boy to meet me on Sunday, since that’s the day they met in that house, and we would go someplace outside the village and he could tell me how to pray. But he wasn’t interested. Disappointed, I decided the next Sunday to try it by myself.

I went to a hut that my cousin was still building, and with no one around, I tried to pray for the first time. I had never heard anyone pray, but I decided I would just talk to this God like He was my father. I can’t explain what happened but it was an exciting experience. I wanted to know more about this God, but there was no one in our village who knew anything about Him. So for two years, I kept praying by myself on Sundays and hoping that someday someone would come along who could tell me about Him.’

You see? Now, he lived up to the light he had, didn’t he? He followed that light.

‘About this time, the government started building a motor road to prepare for the new invention called the automobile. And along with many of my relatives, we spent two weeks a month for the next two years building the road under terrible working conditions. Then I went back to Sadore, where I had been born, to stay with my cousin. When I reached Sadore, I made the most wonderful discovery of my entire life for in Sadore there was a house where people met to pray to the God who created the world.

How excited I was. I could hardly wait for Sunday. All night I lay on my mat, waiting for that bell that my cousin said would ring and call us to that house. That morning I sat in the back. I listened to a man tell about God for the first time in my life. I found He was far more wonderful than I had ever imagined. The preacher said that God loved the world so much that He sent His only Son, named Jesus, to take away my sins. I wondered if He knew how terrible I was. I wondered if He knew the awful things I had done back in my village. But the preacher said no matter what I had done, God would forgive me and make my heart clean.’

Listen to this next statement.

‘I knew it was all true.’

How did he know that? How did he know that was true? You say, “Well, he went to the counseling room. They gave him a sheet on apologetics.” How did he know that was true? He was following a light God had given him, and that was the next logical step, and his heart was a prepared heart.

‘Hadn’t this God heard my prayers when I talked to Him and asked Him to help me? Hadn’t He sent me here to Sadore when I didn’t even know He had one of His houses here? I gave my heart to God that morning and it was nice to know He had a Son, too. He was really a father, just like I had been praying to. ‘

You know what happened to that man? That man became the most significant man in the nation of Liberia in our day in founding and building churches.

Do you get the picture? You see, the very – listen to this – the very fact that that could occur proves the heathen have the knowledge if they’ll live up to it. God will be fair, no favorites, but each is responsible for the light he has.”

²_{McArthur, John, Principles of God’s Judgement Part 4b, https://www.gty.org/sermons/45-20B/principles-of-gods-judgment-part-4b, sermon dated October 18, 1981; accessed 7/19/2025}

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

Self-reason, Pride, And the Spurning of God Leads to World Destruction

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2025

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the KJV 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

Blog

Self-reason, Pride, And the Spurning of God Leads to World Destruction

July 12, 2025 Effie Barba Leave a comment

Last week we focused on Romans 1:18-32. This is so important to understand, I believe it does need further time spent to explain. Humanity of its own self-reason, pride, and the spurning of God will lead to World Destruction. This truth is so penetrating that I do feel we need to take a deeper look at this. Particularly when we consider that in Romans 2:1-4 points out clearly. We who know Christ have no right to judge others. It is very easy to look at the course of the sinner’s progressive slip downward slip into hell. Then say, “Thank God, that’s not me.” In fact, sometimes we will think, “I am not like them. Aren’t you proud of me, God?”

But the truth is we are not saved by our own efforts. And our self-reason and pride cause us to slip as well. My salvation is certain; but, my spiritual happiness, peace, and hope in this world are affected. I too sometimes go where I should not. Even while all the way, the Holy Spirit of God is saying, “Don’t go there.”

Therefore, you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things. But we know that the judgment of God is according to truth against those who practice such things. And do you think this, O man, you who judge those practicing such things, and doing the same, that you will escape the judgment of God? Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance? Romans 2:1-4 NKJV

Let us Review How Self-reason, Pride, and the Spurning of God leads to Destruction

For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools, and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things. Romans 1:18-23 NKJV

Throughout the Universe and throughout history, God has revealed Himself to each person. His common grace supports each from falling into the pit of hell each day. Only by the pleasure of His Will. He also gave us a “conscience” to weigh right from wrong. Example: A child knows innately that it is wrong to lie, but do it anyway. I heard a wonderful illustration of this by Pastor Jack Hibbs.

Imagine yourself on a spiraling staircase. Each step of the staircase, God is with you whispering, do not go there. But you do. Maybe you are married and at work you see this beautiful girl at the water fountain or some handsome new charming guy. You say, “Well, I am not doing anything but looking. What is wrong with eye candy.” So, you take that step. Then well, it doesn’t hurt to talk to them, does it? God still whispering do not go there and you step again. This keeps happening until, if not a believer, you stop even hearing the voice say no. If a believer, you begin to drift from His Presence as you spiral downward no longer feeling His love and His joy.

Where does it all begin, but self-reason, pride and spurning of God

So what is the next step?

Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen. Romans 1:24-25 NKJV

Each step spiraling further away from God down a winding staircase toward destruction.

For this reason, God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. Likewise, also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due. Romans 1:26-27 NKJV

Sometimes the church or some who profess themselves to be Christian want to feel themselves righteous of their own voluntold. Then they begin to accept the lies as though it is truth. Forgetting that God to remain just, must punish sin. And whatever we do or say attempting to change His truth for a lie, we too fall under His judgment. This continues until chaos and confusion becomes the norm.

Self-reason, Pride and Spurning of God leading to further destruction

And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful; who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them. Romans 1:28-32 NKJV

“How wonderful”, you might say, “I am not like them.” But without the blood of Christ covering your sin, aren’t you? I know I am. Everyday shows me how I am nothing without His Hand to hold me up.

This world is heading for its final well-deserved judgement. The only reason it has not been destroyed is because of God’s Grace and His long-suffering patience awaiting His perfect time. Each day there are some who are called to Him. Otherwise, we would fall into the final spiraling fall into the pits of Hell itself.

A Quick Look Back Into Another time of Self-Reason, Pride and the Spurning of God

America was originally founded by people who desired religious freedom. Their pursuits surrounded worshipping and praising God for His provision. Then in the 1600s people began seeking material wealth and prosperity instead of seeking God. People lost the sense of fervency. Then the Puritans due to loss of membership began a policy of what was called the half-way covenant allowing people to join who had no profession of faith in Christ. It began by allowing the children to join, hoping they would later be saved. But then they allowed more in.

The AGE of REASON came. With this the intellectuals began to seek truth through human reason. Pride, drunkenness, lawlessness and a disregard for Godly things followed quickly. By the early 1700s, the land and people prospered; but they turned further from God. Many clergy even were placed who had never proclaimed a personal relationship with Christ. It was a “career choice” rather than a calling to preach the gospel. How could they preach what they had not even themselves experienced? Finally, a few preachers began preaching, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved. All needed to be awakened from the sleep of death.” This began what was to be referred to as the Great Awakening. A seminary was started in Pennsylvania by William Tennent a Presbyterian Minister. The gospel message began to spread, despite the “Established Church” despising it.

Truth Overcomes Self-reason, Pride and the Spurning of God

In North Hampton Massachusetts, Jonathan Edwards became known as the intellectual preacher. At age 13 he studied at Yale and became very skilled in philosophy as well. As a pastor, he studied up to 13 hours a day. He taught the absolute necessity of a saving relationship with God through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ and the workings of the Holy Spirit to open their eyes.

Then, he preached a sermon called “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” July 8, 1741, in Enfield Connecticut. He had previously preached it in his home congregation in Northampton, Massachusetts with minimal impact. This time, he had spent three days fasting, in prayer day and night with no sleep. He read the sermon from hand sized notes held close to his face. Yet, this time, he could not even finish. Because the out-cry and waling of the people convicted by their own sin overwhelmed the area. And even down the streets. People were saved. This was considered one of the most resistant communities of their time.

“As one participant later recalled, when the ministers entered the church at Enfield, the gathered people were ‘thoughtless and vain.’ By comparison with other towns at the time, the people there were not even showing any particular interest—let alone great passion—regarding the things of God. In fact, they ‘hardly conducted themselves with common decency.’ ”¹

What was different? That day the Holy Spirit did a mighty work to save the people. It was the pleasure of God that did not allow the people to slip that day. What did Edwards read from the pulpit?

Excerpts from “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God

the reason why they are not fallen already and do not fall now is only that God’s appointed time is not come. For it is said, that when that due time, or appointed time comes, their foot shall slide. Then they shall be left to fall, as they are inclined by their own weight. God will not hold them up in these slippery places any longer, but will let them go; and then, at that very instant, they shall fall into destruction; as he that stands on such slippery declining ground, on the edge of a pit, he cannot stand alone, when he is let go he immediately falls and is lost.

The observation from the words that I would now insist upon is this.—“There is nothing that keeps wicked men at any one moment out of hell, but the mere pleasure of God.”—By the mere pleasure of God, I mean his sovereign pleasure, his arbitrary will, restrained by no obligation, hindered by no manner of difficulty…

Your wickedness makes you as it were heavy as lead, and to tend downwards with great weight and pressure towards hell; and if God should let you go, you would immediately sink and swiftly descend and plunge into the bottomless gulf, and your healthy constitution, and your own care and prudence, and best contrivance, and all your righteousness, would have no more influence to uphold you and keep you out of hell, than a spider’s web would have to stop a falling rock. Were it not for the sovereign pleasure of God, the earth would not bear you one moment; for you are a burden to it; the creation groans with you; the creature is made subject to the bondage of your corruption, not willingly; the sun does not willingly shine upon you to give you light to serve sin and Satan; the earth does not willingly yield her increase to satisfy your lusts; nor is it willingly a stage for your wickedness to be acted upon; the air does not willingly serve you for breath to maintain the flame of life in your vitals, while you spend your life in the service of God’s enemies…

Therefore, let every one that is out of Christ, now awake and fly from the wrath to come. The wrath of Almighty God is now undoubtedly hanging over a great part of this congregation. Let everyone fly out of Sodom: “Haste and escape for your lives, look not behind you, escape to the mountain, lest you be consumed.”² ² Edwards, Jonathan, “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” https://www.blueletterbible.org/Comm/edwards_jonathan/Sermons/Sinners.cfm

Let Us Lay Aside Self-reason, Pride, and the Spurning of God

Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 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 has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2 NKJV

God is on His Throne and This is His Promise, Jesus will be seated on His Rightful Throne

Why do the nations rage,

And the people plot a vain thing?

The kings of the earth set themselves,

And the rulers take counsel together,

Against the Lord and against His Anointed, saying,

“Let us break Their bonds in pieces

And cast away Their cords from us.”

He who sits in the heavens shall laugh;

The Lord shall hold them in derision.

Then He shall speak to them in His wrath,

And distress them in His deep displeasure:

“Yet I have set My King

On My holy hill of Zion.”

“I will declare the decree:

The Lord has said to Me,

‘You are My Son,

Today I have begotten You.

Ask of Me, and I will give You

The nations for Your inheritance,

And the ends of the earth for Your possession.

You shall break them with a rod of iron;

You shall dash them to pieces like a potter’s vessel.’ ”

Now therefore, be wise, O kings;

Be instructed, you judges of the earth.

Serve the Lord with fear,

And rejoice with trembling.

Kiss the Son, lest He be angry,

And you perish in the way,

When His wrath is kindled but a little.

Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him.

Psalm 2

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

The Wrath of God Really Matters. How Does Truth Change Everything?

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2025

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the KJV 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

Blog

The Wrath of God Really Matters. How Does Truth Change Everything?

July 5, 2025 Effie Barba Leave a comment

The truth of the Wrath of God really matters. Without it would we ever understand His love and grace for us. Bare with me as we explore this further in this text which lay the groundwork for our studies in Romans

If we return to the Greek to review this passage. And we remember the Bible was not originally divided into verses. We will get some additional insight I believe. The ending of verse 17 was a quote from Malachi. “The just shall live by faith.” This is followed by 18. And in Greek reads. “Is revealed for the wrath of God from heaven on all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men. The truth by unrighteousness suppressing,¹ (Then 19) Because the known of God manifest is among them. God for to them has revealed (it).²

When you consider this. Truly it is a comfort to know the just live by faith. Who are the just? Those set aside as righteous because of the blood of Jesus Christ. And faith? It is that faith which God Himself instills within us. Only then we realize how tremendous is that declaration of being declared Saints by His Act of Grace. Our faith a gift from Him.

Consider this

Were it not for Grace. Would not I have been drawn aside to suppress the truth out of all my actions of unrighteousness. How indebted I am that He has covered me with the blood of Christ. How often would my actions lead to suppressing the truth of God? Were it not for His Grace that takes my failures and turns them into something good in His hands. Of course, that occurs because His Spirit within me convicts me and draws me back. How much do I too deserve the Wrath of God; but am given grace and mercy. He will bring things into my life to draw me back to Him. But I would rather go into heaven with a broken body, heart, and mind if needed. Rather than to ever spend even a moment without Him.

The Wrath of God Revealed

We see the evidence of the Wrath of God revealed from heaven itself. That occurred during the flood and the burning of Sodom and Gomorrah. It was seen when the earth opened to swallow up Korah with his followers. These are very dramatic scenes. However, we cannot say every hurricane or natural disaster is a display of the Wrath of God. Some may be. Yet, many are the natural progression of a broken, sin laden world. Yes, He is aware and could stop it. However, often those disasters may cause some to fall on their knees to turn to Him. Only, a Holy, Just God can bring good even out of the disasters. Furthermore, it kind of destroys the theories of evolution. That is if instead of evolving the earth and the people are devolving instead.

The word wrath here is not that of gigantic uncontrollable, unreasonable anger as we consider wrath to be. Instead, it is a steady, controlled sadness and resolve against all that destroys what He created. Unrighteousness and the suppression of the truth of God, destroys the hearts and minds of those whom God so loves. His perfect Holiness and Righteousness sees the depths of the destruction sin brings to His beloved creation. So why did He allow all this? Huge discussion; but, remember we do not have the mind of God. Thank God, I am not God. Nor do I want to be. Yet, how can anyone love without choice? And how can I recognize His Righteousness or Goodness if I never saw what life without Him is?

Understand the Wrath of God through Seeing What is Known of God

God reveals Himself in nature itself.

The heavens declare the glory of God;

And the firmament shows His handiwork.

Day unto day utters speech,

And night unto night reveals knowledge.

There is no speech nor language

Where their voice is not heard.

Their line has gone out through all the earth,

And their words to the end of the world. Psalm 19:1-3 NKJV

His revelation of Himself goes beyond this.

He created man with a “conscience” and thought. Mankind screams about “justice” declaring that certain things are wrong. Such as murder, rape, incest, pedophilia, theft, etc. However, these lines are becoming more blurred. There mostly remains still some desire for orderliness, law, and some form of government to keep out chaos. Those are felt within the human’s heart. Also present are the desire for awe, wonder, joy, hope and love. We aspire to things that are beyond just nature’s instincts. The desire for creativity and to become someone admirable are not found in the animal kingdom as such. Mankind was created with a vacuum that only God can fill. After the fall of humanity, human beings tried to fill that hole with various other things. Pushing aside the obvious and even purposefully denying the existence of God.

No one must look beyond their own heart to recognize that some creator/designer had to create us. A box of legos cannot suddenly be shuffled together and come out as a beautiful work of art. There has to be a designer. One who carefully designs, positions, and places each in such a way as to create a masterpiece of artwork. The same is true of the universe and our own bodies. Each intricate cell brimming with the truth that God IS.

No Excuse for Those Who Will Face the Wrath of God

For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead Romans 1:20 (NKJV)

Invisible attributes clearly seen. Sounds like a backward statement; but not really. His invisible attributes are clearly seen through the reflection of those attributes throughout nature itself. And within the central core of human souls. There are the frustrations, depressions and anxieties that push us toward so many things. Just hoping to fulfill the longing deep within us. Then there is that desire for eternity. Some even want to freeze their bodies to be awakened when a cure can be found. Others want to have their “conscientiousness’” transmitted to some robot, believing that will make them eternal. While still even others desire to create such a legacy that their legacy is eternal.

He has put eternity in their hearts, Ecclesiastes 3:11 NKJV

God even placed the longing for eternity into our hearts that we might desire Him. He ordained the idea of love, marriage, and family. That so we might even understand the Triune God’s union and love together. As well as His design to call out a wife in the Jewish Nation. And a bride for His son from the Gentile. All this symbolic of His plans of love, union and togetherness. Only sin broke it all. Rather, humanities desire to rule, dominate, and be God has progressed us to where we are.

so that they are without excuse because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened Romans 1:20-21

The Wrath of God revealed in the Degradation of Humanity

Professing to be wise, they became fools and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things. Romans 1:22-23

Note from Romans 1:21, humanities decline began by not giving God the Glory nor thanking Him. How often, we who know Him as Lord and Savior, drift into lives of anxiety, depression, and spiritual drought by doing the same. Yet, we have the Holy Spirit who will draw us back, eventually. Sometimes having to knock us down or allow us to hit rock bottom first. But assuredly, He will finish the work begun in us. However, those who do not have Him to bring them back. Those who do not know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. All who cannot proclaim their justice from being washed in the blood of Christ, clothed in His righteousness. They just keep drifting further away. In other words they keep digging their own hole deeper and deeper. Until they have not even a glimpse of light left.

Therefore, God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen. Romans 1:24-25 NKJV

Fornication, lust, adultery, abortion, etc-my body, my choice. God gave them up to uncleanness. This is His wrath saying, “Go ahead and do as you want to. I am not going to try to stop you anymore.” Humanistic psychology was the full teaching of this. “Being and Nothingness” by Jean Paul Sartre led the masses. Along with Sigmund Freud, Nietzsche, and Bertrand Russell. All of whom were miserable themselves.

A Form of the Wrath of God

When God recalls His restraining hand in the life of a person. Or a nation. He displays a form of His Wrath. Since He is their source of all that is good, right, just, and even their basic provisions. Anyone have to read Hierarchy of Needs by Abraham Maslow? If so, you will note that people sometimes begin this backwards spiral. They end with even the basic needs failing at some point. The peak of “self-actualization” where life is fulfilling completely can only be truly achieved with a union with God. No society can ever provide it. Therefore, that is why our world remains in such a chaos. We need God.

Society continues to deteriorate the further God allows people to “do what they want”. Even try to play God. Attempting to fix what was broken, the human race plunges deeper in sin. And thus further away from their only source of healing.

For this reason, God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. Likewise, also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due. Romans 1:26-27 NKJV

Then as it progressed

And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, ]undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful; who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them. Romans 1:28-32 NKJV

Why does the Wrath of God really Matter for you and me

It is a reminder to we who believe where we truly came from. And how much love and grace He has given us.

Therefore

We must fall on our knees to Glorify God and Thank Him for our salvation

Then, we must go into the world and preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ to a lost and dying world. We are the SALT and Light. Therefore, let us live like we are the children of God. With love for the lost, not for their sin. There are the moments we will need to walk away from some people. But never stop praying for their salvation as long as they live. And never get trapped into being the angry, bitter social media people bent on arguing.

To all we meet:
- Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4: 29-32 NKJV

To Others in the church
- I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love,endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. Ephesians 4:1-6

Furthermore

Never forsake the study, recognizing Jesus Christ Himself ordained us to be under pastors, teachers. They are His gift to His church.

But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift. Therefore He says:

“When He ascended on high,

He led captivity captive,

And gave gifts to men.”

(Now this, “He ascended”—what does it mean but that He also [d]first descended into the lower parts of the earth? He who descended is also the One who ascended far above all the heavens, that He might fill all things.)

And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love. Ephesians 4:7-16 NKJV

Concluding Thoughts

Knowing and understanding the Wrath of God against sin matters as His truth transforms us. Jesus Christ, God’s Only Son bore all the judgement and wrath of God against me. For my sin. So I might be set free. Therefore, I must act like I am free. How? by loving those who are placed in my path; even when I might not like some of them. I must not compromise to their standards. However, I am to love them in their confusion. Hoping and praying the light will shine into their hearts. Precisely it may be through the holes in my life. My own broken heart allowing the light of the Holy Spirit to shine through the cracks. Wrapped tight. Hidden in my own hard shell will never reach someone else. Only when I am broken for Him, will He shine brightest through me to others.

Listen to this song written and sung by Steve Green.

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

Who Are You Really Called by God to be in the World Today?

Please note: This Post only has quotes from the KJV 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 GGoodsalt.com

Blog

Who Are You Really Called by God to be in the World Today?

June 29, 2025 Effie Barba Leave a comment

As we completed the book of Revelations back in February, I remember a request to do a study in Romans. Certainly, one of the most important books to delve deeply into its contents. Therein we are told who we are really called by God to be in the world today. Also, we are given in-depth explanation of the three major covenants of God. The Abrahamic Covenant, the Davidic Covenant, and the Covenant with the Church. Although each are different Covenants. Yet, God will always fulfill His Covenant; regardless of humanities failure to keep ours. Hence, why we must understand each.

Christianity is explained and presented in the Book of Romans in such a manner that as Pastor Ray Stedman wrote,

“If you had nothing but the book of

Romans, you would have every vital Christian

teaching in the New Testament – in capsule form at

least. It touches upon all the basic truths of Chris-

tian doctrine and teachings. So, if you master the

book of Romans, you have the key to all the

Scriptures, Old and New Testaments alike.”¹

_{¹ Stedman, Ray; Simple Christianity; Date: April 29, 1962 Series: Romans (Series I): https://www.raystedman.org/romans1/pdf/0005.pdf Accessed 6/29/2025}

Furthermore, this in-depth expository study in theology was inspired by the Holy Spirit. And given through one of God’s most prepared students of the Old Testament. That highly prepared student was then taught by Jesus via revelation in the wilderness post His salvation. Guided carefully with the Holy Spirit, He became the perfect teacher of doctrine.

Galatians 1: 1, 11-19

Paul, an apostle—not from men nor through man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead…. For I would have you know, brothers, that the gospel that was preached by me is not man’s gospel. For I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it, but I received it through a revelation of Jesus Christ. For you have heard of my former life in Judaism, how I persecuted the church of God violently and tried to destroy it. And I was advancing in Judaism beyond many of my own age among my people, so extremely zealous was I for the traditions of my fathers. But when he who had set me apart before I was born, and who called me by his grace, was pleased to reveal his Son to me, in order that I might preach him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately consult with anyone; nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me, but I went away into Arabia, and returned again to Damascus. Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to visit Cephas and remained with him fifteen days. But I saw none of the other apostles except James the Lord’s brother. Galatians 1: 1, 11-19 ESV.

Called by God to Be an Slave

Paul, a bondservant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated to the gospel of God Romans 1:1a NKJV

Paul who was formerly named Saul was born into a wealthy Roman/Jewish family. He had every right as a Roman Citizen. Furthermore, from a very young age was taught the Old Testament Scripture. Schooled by the Masters of his times. As he spoke,

“I am indeed a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, taught according to the strictness of our fathers’ law, and was zealous toward God as you all are today. I persecuted this Way to the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women, as also the high priest bears me witness, and all the council of the elders, from whom I also received letters to the brethren, and went to Damascus to bring in chains even those who were there to Jerusalem to be punished. “Now it happened, as I journeyed and came near Damascus at about noon, suddenly a great light from heaven shone around me. And I fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to me, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?’ So I answered, ‘Who are You, Lord?’ And He said to me, ‘I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you are persecuting.’ Acts 22: 3-8 NKJV

Yet, this is who began his letter referring to himself as a bondservant of Jesus Christ. Bondservant is a fancy word for “slave.” Not a paid servant. Paul declared himself a slave by choice. Bound to Jesus Christ due to love and devotion. Dying to everything within himself, to live for Christ.

Called by God to Be Given New Life with a New Name

For I through the law died to the law that I might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain.” Galatians 2:19-21 NKJV

The name Saul meant asked for, prayed for, requested. A name of distinction and power. Yet, God gave him a new name: Paul. Paul means small, humble, insignificant. As salutation in every letter, he begins as Paul. No longer proud of all his studies, citizenship, and achievements. Instead, now he recognized himself as totally insignificant. Why? He met Jesus along the road to Damascus. After that he saw his righteousness as nothing more than filthy rags. He realized the significance of the statement, “The Just Shall Live by Faith”.

Who are the just? Those whom God has justified. Once saved, our only hope is to live by faith in Jesus Christ. Where does faith come from? Not from these broken hands of mine. Rather, faith comes by the work of the Holy Spirit within us. Faith develops as we grow in our knowledge of Jesus Christ. In as much, we also grow in our knowledge of God, the Father. And we are enriched by the Holy Spirit’s power within us. That is faith. Knowing the perfectly all-powerful, all knowing, just, righteous God, full of Mercy, love, grace and joy. Then grasping that immutable fact, faith is clinging ever so tightly to this truth. He rewards all who diligently seek Him. Knowing our frailty, He deals with us as little children.

Called by God to be a part of the Gospel Story

Paul jumped right into the truth of the gospel message.

to the gospel of God which He promised before through His prophets in the Holy Scriptures, concerning His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who was born of the seed of David according to the flesh, and declared to be the Son of God with power according to the Spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead. Through Him we have received grace and apostleship for obedience to the faith among all nations for His name, Romans 1:2-5 NKJV

As we break this down. In one long sentence, Paul explained the deity of Jesus, the trinity, the power of His resurrection, and the grace which brings about both justification and sanctification. He even points out that those being saved are for His Name’s sake. This grace bringing the gentiles into the fold as His church, His bride is the gospel message. All this succinctly packaged in these few verses. Let it sink in. He even says all this was told in the Old Testament. The mystery revealed, though it was always there for any whose eyes would see.

Called by God to be Saints

among whom you also are the called of Jesus Christ; To all who are in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints. Romans 1: 6-7 NKJV

Called to be saints. I can only be declared a Saint by God. He is the one who calls me to be His Child, draped in the righteousness of Jesus Christ His Son. Later we will go into more depth, but this is the introduction to what Paul goes on to write in Romans 8.

Now in the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know what to pray for as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words; and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.

And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters; and these whom He predestined, He also called; and these whom He called, He also justified; and these whom He justified, He also glorified. Romans 8:26-30 NASB

When I look deep within, I do not fully understand how; but one day I will look like Jesus. My heart will love like His does. I am daily one glory at a time being transformed. But one day I will be complete. Until then, I can rest assured, He will complete the work He began in me.

Called by God to be a Prisoner

Paul does then salute the church at Rome. It was born out of those who had traveled to Pentecost and returned saved. Yet, no formal teacher had gone there to declare the truths of the gospel. This we will discover further as we dissect the book and see some of the errors Paul will address in their teachings.

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world. For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of His Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers, making request if, by some means, now at last I may find a way in the will of God to come to you. For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift, so that you may be established— that is, that I may be encouraged together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.

Now I do not want you to be unaware, brethren, that I often planned to come to you (but was hindered until now), that I might have some fruit among you also, just as among the other Gentiles. I am a debtor both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to wise and to unwise. So, as much as is in me, I am ready to preach the gospel to you who are in Rome also. Romans 1:7-15 NKJV

God would grant Paul’s wish. However, little did Paul know his journey to Rome would be as a prisoner. From the elite, powerful, educated position of his youth to now a prisoner for Jesus Christ. A declared slave of the gospel. All for the absolute, overwhelming love and devotion to his Lord and Savior. Yet, he would have it no other way.

What About You and I?

Who Are You or I Really Called by God to be in the World Today? There is no more important task for our life than to spread the gospel. That is if you know Him as Lord and Savior. We see a world that is ever more plunging into darkness. Yet, we who are the called are called for more than just “get out of hell free card”. Nor are we called to do this on our own efforts. I will work harder to get into heaven. Perhaps if I try harder, I can have more faith. No, this is a step-by-step process that only God can do in us and through us. But are you and I willing to humbly recognize it is His work?

For 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 1:16-17 NKJV

How often do we fail to say anything? Are we ashamed of the gospel? It is the power of salvation for everyone who believes. Who have you told this past week. You hold in your hearts and minds the cure this world so desperately needs. Will you share that with someone today?