1053. The Listeners Speak! The Changes Grace Brought to Them (Part 4)

A while back, we asked our listeners to comment on something that completely changed for them as they slipped from the roots of religious legalism into the grace of the gospel.

This week includes the topics of:

- The Holy Spirit does not convict believers of sin, but unbelievers.
- Knowing that not all Bible verses are what they appear and are often taken out of context.
- "Daily disciplines" or routines are not required to get closer to God. Jesus has become a new and living way for us.
- Dispensationalism.
- Holiness and sanctification are gifts that came through Jesus and not something unattainable that we progressively or gradually work at to become more righteous or acceptable to God.
- Overcoming the painful experience of self-righteous judgement by getting kicked out of church for what the hierarchy viewed as failing their so-called moral code (dancing).




"Clash of the Covenants" book available on Amazon

1052. The Listeners Speak! The Changes Grace Brought to Them (Part 3)

A few weeks ago, we asked our listeners to respond with comments to this:

Name something that completely changed things for you when coming from a traditional or legalistic-based religious mindset compared to a greater knowledge of the gospel of grace. For those who have experienced such a journey, the differences are nothing short of amazing (and exciting). There is a good chance you have had similar experiences you'll find very relatable.

This week includes the topics of:

- Thinking a believer in Christ can forfeit their salvation.
- The Holy Spirit convicts us (believers) of sin.
-Religious accusations of idol worship motivated by guilt.
- God's love didn't really bring any change to you unless you were wholeheartedly committed to church ministry.
- Misunderstanding our identity inherited in Christ ... instead of working or doing something to attain what God has already gifted.




"Clash of the Covenants" book available on Amazon

1051. The Listeners Speak! The Changes Grace Brought to Them (Part 2)

A few weeks ago, we asked our listeners to respond with comments to this:

Name something that completely changed things for you when coming from a traditional or legalistic-based religious mindset compared to a greater knowledge of the gospel of grace. For those who have experienced such a journey, the differences are nothing short of amazing (and exciting). There is a good chance you have had similar experiences you'll find very relatable.

This week includes the topics of:

-Thinking everything you have ever done will be played back on a big screen for all to see (probably in 4K technology).
-The topic of fasting and whether it should be considered as a required mandate.
-"Keep a short account with God." Including the worry of not having confessed sins or continually feeling the need to ask God for more forgiveness.
-Being "all in" by fully committing to participating in the many church ministries and activities.




"Clash of the Covenants" book available on Amazon

1050. The Listeners Speak! The Changes Grace Brought to Them (Part 1)

A few weeks ago, we asked our listeners to respond with comments to this:

Name something that completely changed things for you when coming from a traditional or legalistic-based religious mindset compared to a greater knowledge of the gospel of grace. For those who have experienced such a journey, the differences are nothing short of amazing (and exciting). We are just getting around to sharing those responses while briefly discussing them with our expert commentary. 🙂

This week includes the topics of:

-Tithing demands.
-The "requirement" to convert family and friends by talking about Jesus with everyone all the time.
-Feeling the obligation to pray before every meal.
-The need to regularly do penance.




"Clash of the Covenants" book available on Amazon

1049. The Common Clash Between the Gospel and the Red Letters

There is a common misconception within the Christian mindset that the words Jesus spoke to His disciples and others should also be considered as if He was speaking to all future believers. But the primary mission of Jesus was to minister to the lost sheep of the house of Israel ... Jewish people who were under a different religious system of the Mosaic law which could not bring them life or righteousness.

While there are some demonstrations, blips, and words looking forward to a new and different covenant, there is very little good news contained within the chapters and verses in those books about the gospel of grace.




"Clash of the Covenants" book available on Amazon

1048. Defining "The Gospel"

The gospel. We hear the word a lot—probably without thinking much about what it specifically means. Meanings in the Greek describe gospel as to proclaim or declare good news. And while it is literally defined as good news—and we can relate the good news to Jesus—what exactly is that good news?

There are many Bible-related nuggets and concepts that may be assumed or considered as the gospel of Jesus Christ but might often be quite different from the way the Apostle Paul described it ... and may not be the gospel at all.




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1047. Resting in Grace

Stop and think about who Jesus was speaking to when He said the following: "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Of course, it was directed specifically at those (Jewish people) who had been held under an unprofitable law which required them to work at hearing and doing all of it in order to try to attain to right standing with God. There was no rest for them to enter into within that system of the stone-tablet ministry. Unfortunately, some of that obsolete arrangement has trickled down similar concepts to corporate Christianity today.

God has not placed you under arrest only to be released on parole based upon rehabilitation and good behavior. Through Christ, He has placed you under a rest. He is the One who sets captives free. This is the reality and truth for you right now, even if you don't always feel as though you are experiencing such perfect peace and rest at all times. While the religious world loves to strike a "balance" ... and will try to regulate your rest based on regulations and law-like lifelessness planted in decrees and ordinances, we have been given something much better in the New Covenant of Jesus Christ. It's God's grace—and it will bring internal and eternal peace when we embrace it. He died so we could live in it.




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