November 02nd, 2023

2nd November 2023


Pray (ACts)


Read (Romans 14v17-19)


Message (Scott Woodburn)


It never ceases to amaze me that Christians will fight and divide over issues which aren't central to the Gospel. It is rare to hear of a fellowship arguing over the true nature of justification, but sadly all too common to hear of fellowships warring over the position of the choir seats or the "devaluing" of a "special" service. Paul's letter to the Romans addressed such secondary concerns - some Christians believed that they could eat and drink anything while others, in good conscience, believed that Biblical limits to their eating and drinking were still in force.


In theses verses the Apostle offered a clear reminder that the kingdom of God was not focused on eating and drinking but "righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit." (v17). Where can we find the kingdom of God? Jesus once told Pilate that His kingdom was not of this world (John 18v36) and so Christ's kingdom does not have borders or a capital city. Nevertheless, it is possible to catch a glimpse of Christ's kingdom as we observe the visible church.


Here's what the Confession says about the kingdom "The visible church, which is also catholic or universal under the gospel (not confined to one nation, as before under the law), consists of all those throughout the world that profess the true religion; and of their children: and is the kingdom of the Lord Jesus Christ, the house and family of God, out of which there is no ordinary possibility of salvation."


So the kingdom of God has come and, although it is not yet what it one day will be, it's focus is not on unimportant matters of food and drink. Instead, the gaze of the church of Christ is upon righteousness - how humanity can stand before a holy God. Righteousness comes by faith in Christ whereby His righteousness is credited to our account. Peace with God and peace with each other is of much more concern in the kingdom than the eating habits of Christians. Additionally, the Spirit worked joy that marks a redeemed sinner's life should be more evident in the kingdom than division over drink and days. Paul was sure that the one who has this "kingdom focus" is both accepted by God and approved by men (v18).


How then should we respond? By pursuing whatever brings peace and mutual upbuilding to the church (v19). As Christians we are free from any and all man-made rules, we are free to exercise our Christian liberty and we are bound only by Holy Scripture. Even so, if our exercise of freedom causes division in the local church we should be wise enough to seek peace. On the other hand, if we struggle with certain issues and wish that our brothers and sisters would be more like us, we should be mature enough to build up our fellow Christians rather than pick a fight.


The kingdom of God is a serious place with no room for petty rivalry and foolish squabbles. It's focus isn't what you had for lunch or your man-made opinions which you seek to impose on everyone else. The meat and drink of the church is Christ and Him crucified. May we never forget it.


Pray (acTS)


Sing


WSC


Q86 What is faith in Jesus Christ? Faith in Jesus Christ is a saving grace, whereby we receive and rest upon him alone for salvation, as he is offered to us in the gospel.
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