#279 - The Vice Lists in 1 Corinthians 6, Galatians 5, and Ephesians 5
In this episode from GraceNotes no. 96, we discuss the three similar lists of sins that all have the same consequence for those who commit them: they will not inherit the kingdom of God (1 Cor. 6:9-11; Gal. 5:19-21; Eph. 5:3-5). Some think that Paul is saying that those who commit such sins will lose their salvation or that they were never truly saved at all. Others say that "not inherit" refers to forfeiting rewards in the coming kingdom. A better interpretation is that Paul is simply saying that these sins are characteristic of unbelievers, so Christians should not act like them. These sins can describe a believer in Christ as shown throughout the New Testament, especially in 1 Corinthians. The interpretation that the readers could lose their reward or that the readers should not act like unbelievers both keep the gospel of grace free from works to earn, deserve, or keep their salvation. Kingdom-bound believers should not act like hell-bound unbelievers. Please leave your comments, like this episode, and share it with others. #GraceLifeMinistries#SimplybyGrace#EternalSecurity
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#278 - If You Hold Fast
"If" can be a very important word if someone thinks it means they can lose their salvation. That is how some might interpret 1 Corinthians 15:2 where the Apostle Paul says, "you are saved , if you hold fast to that word which I preached to you." The word that Paul preached is the gospel he reminds them of in verses 3-4. The readers had received the gospel and believed it, so there is no doubt they are saved (as many other passages in the epistle show). They were saved or delivered from hell. But what does Paul mean by using the present tense as if to say "you are being saved"? He is telling them that their steadfastness to the truths of the gospel will continue to deliver them from sin. That is why he reminds them about the death of Christ for our sins and His resurrectioin in verses 3-4. Those truths that were the foundation of our salvation are also the foundation of our Christian growth and sanctification, as also explained by our union with Christ in Romans 6:2-5. If they depart from these identification truths, then their salvation will be "in vain," or not reach its intended purpose of their sanctification. The gospel truths that saved us also sanctify us, or continue to save us. This episode is from GraceNotes no. 62. Please let us know what you think, like it, and share it. #GraceLifeMinistries#sanctification#eternalsecurity
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#277 - Falling from Grace in Galatians 5:4
What does the Apostle Paul mean when he tells the Galatian readers that they have "fallen from grace"? Some think he is saying they fall short of the grace of salvation. Others say that he is telling them they have lost their salvation. Neither of these interpretations considers the context. As shown, Paul is writing to believers--they had received the gospel of grace from him. However, there were false teachers who were turning the Galatians away from the grace of Christ to the Law. Paul is saying that if they go back under the Law, then they will not benefit from the blessings of grace that are in Christ. They are "estranged" or severed from that grace because they have turned to their own fleshly efforts to be acceptable to God in justification and sanctification. The Law does not bless believers; it condemns them because no one can keep the Law. For believers, the key to living under grace is to walk in the Spirit, not the flesh. Then they will be blessed with all the benefits of Christ's grace. #grace #podcast #christiantheology #bible #Galatians #faith
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#276 - Arminianism and the Gospel of Grace
In this episode of GraceNotes from no. 87 "Arminianism and the Gospel of Grace," we dive into the theology of Arminianism and its views on the gospel of grace. Named after Dutch theologian Jacob Arminius, Arminianism challenges the strong determinism of Calvinism, particularly in its views on salvation, free will, and God’s grace. We’ll explore the historical roots of Arminianism, from Arminius’ objections to John Calvin's doctrines to the formalization of Arminian theology in the early 17th century.
Through this study, we’ll unpack key points of disagreement between Arminianism and Calvinism, such as the nature of election, the concept of prevenient grace, and the question of whether salvation can be lost. While Arminianism emphasizes human free will and the ability to choose salvation, it also presents challenges to the gospel of grace, particularly when it comes to assurance of salvation and the idea of works in maintaining salvation. How do Arminians reconcile their belief that salvation can be lost with the Bible’s teaching on God’s unconditional grace?
We’ll also look at how Arminianism compares to biblical teachings on eternal security, examining the struggles many believers face with assurance of salvation when their security is tied to human effort rather than God’s grace. This episode seeks to bring clarity to these complex theological systems and highlight the importance of understanding the full gospel of grace.
Whether you’re familiar with the terms TULIP, prevenient grace, or the history of Arminianism, this episode will equip you to better understand both Arminian and Calvinist views and how they relate to the truth of the gospel. Join us as we unpack the core of the gospel message—salvation by grace alone, through faith alone—and why it’s essential for believers to rest in the assurance of eternal security.
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#274 - Erwin Interview
The Philippines is the most Roman Catholic country in the world. It is no wonder that it is a starting place for most who become Protestant Evangelical Christians. Erwin Armador, pastor of GFC Nuvali Church in the Philippines journeyed from his Catholic background into Pentecostal Protestantism finding Jesus as his Savior along the way. But ultimately, his Arminian theology left him with questions and doubts. He then adopted Calvinism, but found that it lacked the joy he desired and also left him with theological questions about the character of God. He was a committed Calvinist until he encountered another option, Free Grace theology. With a new enthusiasm and freedom, he received theological training at Grace School of Theology (Grace Asia in the Philippines) earning his DMin degree. He now pastors a vibrant church committed to intentionally making disciples. Pastor Erwin is committed to sharing the gospel of grace with his nation and recently spoke at the Free Grace Alliance regional conference there. Charlie sat with him to record his story, which should encourage everyone to appreciate the free grace of God in the biblical gospel. See how the message of God's grace has changed his life and shaped his ministry. You will see God has used and will continue to use this man as a trophy of grace in the Philippines and beyond.
#GCFNuvali#FreeGracePhilippines#CalvinismPhilippines#SimplybyGrace#youtube.com?@gracelifeorg
Come join founder and president of GraceLife Ministries, Dr. Bing, where each week he‘ll share the gospel of grace with the unsaved and the grace of the gospel with the saved.
New Zealand