A Compelling Testimony: Maintaining a Disciplined Walk, Christlike Character, and Godly Relationships as God's Servant

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A Compe l l i ng Tes t imony

b. No one can be justified before God on the basis of their own discipline and effort, Rom. 3.20 – For by works of the law no human being will be justified in his sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin. c. Through faith in Christ, we have been released from the tyranny of the Law, Rom. 7.6 – But now we are released from the law, having died to that which held us captive, so that we serve not under the old written code but in the new life of the Spirit.

2. The Law (and anything that is refashioned into a new “Law”) can only cause guilt, condemnation, and discouragement.

a. The weakness of the flesh, Rom. 7.5-6 – For while we were living in the flesh, our sinful passions, aroused by the law, were at work in our members to bear fruit for death. [6] But now we are released from the law, having died to that which held us captive, so that we serve not under the old written code but in the new life of the Spirit. b. The temptations of the world, 1 John 2.15-17 – Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. [16] For all that is in the world – the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions – is not from the Father but is from the world. [17] And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.

c. The attack of the devil, 1 Pet. 5.8-9 – Be sober minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. [9] Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing