The Apostle Paul established a paradigm in his biblical epistles that can be clearly observed in the book of Romans. He details Christian doctrine first (Romans 1-11). Then, he moves on to our Christian duty (Romans 12-16). The key to both is the life and death and resurrection, the grace and mercy and peace, the great gift of our God and Savior Jesus Christ.

“This world” aims for happiness, God requires holiness. It is wonderful when the two can coincide, but often they do not. A choice is required. The mind must be controlled, either by the spirit of the age, or the Spirit of God.

What we are beginning to see now in our church in particular and the church at large is something I have been predicting for the past twenty years. Genuine Christian people are growing tired of silly church led by leaders in skinny jeans majoring on soliciting emotions rather than serious biblical content and historical connection. People are yearning for seriousness, gravity, mystery, and, yes, even a little liturgy.

The greatest thing about God is Who He is. The next greatest thing about God is what He has done. He has made “judgements” concerning sin and salvation. He has decreed “ways” to bring His people to salvation. No one else could do it.

Adam and Noah notwithstanding, God made His first major covenant of salvation with a cat named Abram. By grace, God called Abraham, in faith Abram followed God, and the original recipient of the Old Covenant became Father Abraham.

What the world throws away, God values highly (ref. 1 Corinthians 1:28). This is especially true when it comes to people, God’s people.

“The end justifies the means” is a Machiavellian expression that condones wrong-doing in an effort to make things right. Can Christians live by this motto, that a desired end justifies any and every means?

From a Christian perspective, there is no love greater than God’s love, and God proved it in the person and work of Jesus Christ (ref. John 3:16). Such love is received by grace through faith.

According to Paul in Romans 9, there is a great difference between God’s people and those who are not. One group is chosen, redeemed, and saved. The others are passed over, punished for their sin, and lost. What makes the difference?

Election, creation, fall, redemption, and consummation is God’s grand design. The Apostle Paul explains a great deal of it in Romans 9, 10, and 11.