The Twenty Ninth of JanuaryTHE OBEDIENCE OF FAITH --- Romans 16:26.". . . (the gospel is) made known to all nations for the obedience of faith." --- Romans 16:26. The obedience of faith here spoken of, is the same thing as believing the report of the gospel, Romans 10:16. A hearty submission to the righteousness of God, even to Christ, who is the end of the law for righteousness to every one who believeth; this is the obedience of faith, strictly speaking, by which we give glory to God, take full shame of ourselves, renounce all that nature is proud of, and are brought to rest for our justification and acceptance with God, on that alone which has satisfied his law and justice. However slightly we may be disposed to pass over this, it is a high point of obedience, not easily brought about in such a creature as man, and needing an effectual light and energy from above. It is taught purely from above; and he who would learn it must seek it by prayer continually; for in vain shall we strive to obey God in other things, until we learn to obey him in this. Careless reader, see to it that you learn your need of Christ. Awakened and distressed sinner, seek not to heal yourself by a forced obedience, learn the obedience of faith, that you may be purged in your conscience from dead works to serve God. Self-despairing sinner, obey the gospel-call of God to your soul and live. Believer, let your fruit be holiness.
Within me, Lord, thy Spirit place, |