Romans 4 - How does faith work?
Dr. Roberto Miranda(Audio: Spanish)
SUMMARY:
In Romans 4, Paul emphasizes that salvation is by faith and not by works, using Abraham as an example. God dealt with Abraham through grace and faith before Judaism came into effect, proving that God has always dealt with humanity in the same way. Paul argues that through faith, anyone can be saved, regardless of their background or behavior. In the Christmas story, we see the same theme of faith in the lives of Mary, Joseph, Zacharias, and the Magi. God calls them to believe in the impossible, and their willingness to have faith unleashes God's works in their lives. Mary's story, in particular, shows how faith can be difficult, but ultimately leads to God's blessings. In Luke 1, we see how God chose Zacharias and Mary to be the bearers of life that would bless humanity, despite their biological limitations.
The story of Zacharias and Mary in the Gospel of Luke shows how faith is essential in God's dealings with us. Zacharias doubted the angel's message that his wife would bear a child, while Mary simply asked how it would happen. Zacharias' doubt led to negative consequences. On the other hand, Mary's faith led to the birth of Jesus, who was born to save humanity. Faith is cultivated by reading the word of God, being with people who have faith, and putting God to the test, even if fear is present. By believing in God, impossible situations can become possible.
To increase your faith, surround yourself with spiritual giants and put God to the test, even if there is fear in your heart. When you move in faith, there will be voices around you, but keep moving forward in the name of the Lord. Faith is not the absence of doubt, but what overcomes doubt. Verbalize your faith, declare the things you expect from God, and use your voice to challenge circumstances. The power of God should be before you first, and we have a part to play in God's miracles. Learn the mechanics of faith, prepare and participate in the miracle, and trust in God's timing. God's processes may take time, but his miracles will come in due time.
The speaker discusses the importance of having faith and patience in God's timing. He uses examples from the Bible, such as Zacharias and Mary, to illustrate how God's miracles often take time and require persistence. He also emphasizes the importance of opposition, as it can work for one's benefit if they remain steadfast in their faith. The speaker encourages listeners to trust in God's promises and to pray for an increase in faith. He concludes by stating that God can do the impossible and can use anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, to bless others.
The speaker prays for God to give the gift of faith to those present, to help them keep their eyes on God and believe in His power and continuity throughout history. They ask for God to revive dead dreams and give hope for the future. The speaker declares their belief in God's ability to bring salvation, blessings, and revival. They prophesy signs, wonders, healings, and revival in Jesus' name. They invite those present to come forward and declare their willingness to be uncomfortable and move from their comfort zones to allow God to work. The speaker believes that God will perform miracles.Let's go to Chapter 4 of the Epistle to the Romans, the letter to the Romans, Chapter 4. We continue our study of the Epistle to the Romans and we're going to do something a little different this morning. I am going to combine the reading of this passage with other passages that link us to the Christmas drama as well. And very interesting how the Lord spoke to me this morning about it and I'm going to share it later, but let's go first to Romans, Chapter 4, verses 1 to 5 and I'm going to be showing you, then verse 11, and tremendous, I think that we are going to be able to project the text here for the brothers who visit and who do not have their Bibles.
Chapter 4, Romans. Paul continues his elaboration of salvation as being by faith and not by works. It says here “...What then shall we say that Abraham, our father, found according to the flesh? Because if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not before God”