Page 73 - The Gospel Truth About Death and Dying_Neat

Law Produces Problems in Life,

Gospel Love Produces Power in Life

Paul tells us: "The strength of sin is the law" (I Cor 15:56). He also
says we are not under law but under grace (Rom 6:14).

Most spiritual questions, and spiritual problems, stem from a life

founded on rules, and from a life afraid of giving Jesus too much

credit. From a gospel perspective, that is very sad, and I’m sure it

saddens the heart of God.

If I’m going to be in error, I’d rather err on the side of giving

Jesus too much credit. In reality I don’t think it is possible to make

this error.

LAW produces a religious heart — a focus on self and also a

trust in self. Paul refers to this as 'self righteousness.' At the same

time it produces a distrust for God. It makes you suspicious,

critical, judgmental, and resentful of both God and others

LOVE allows you to rest in God, and receive everything good he

has, trusting in the process of his gospel. Trust in Abba becomes

natural if you live in his love. Paul says, “I know WHOM I have

believed.”

Having doctrinal beliefs is important, but it’s not as important as

knowing WHOM you believe. I’d trade any belief I have for a

closer relationship with ABBA.

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