In the midst of this book, there is a gem, a nugget of gold, a priceless pearl that I would like for us to consider. Habakkuk 2:4, “Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith.” This verse is recorded three times in the New Testament. Romans 1:17 says, “For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.” This verse alone sparked the reformation as the Catholic priest named Martin Luther realized that salvation could not be merited through the sacraments of the church, but by faith in the precious blood of the Lamb of God. The Apostle Paul later defends in Galatians 3:11 which says, “But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.” In essence, Paul stated that there is no one who has been able to keep the law perfectly, therefore Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law. Finally, Hebrews 10:38 states, “Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.” The Hebrew writer was explaining the perseverance of the saints until the end. The title to tonight’s message will titled by a church sign I had seen, “A Hopeless End or an Endless Hope.” Whatever you are trusting in will determine which one describes your life. We will consider this vital topic before us. |