His Word Today

¹⁸ “Children, it is the last hour, and as you have heard that antichrist is coming, so now many antichrists have come. Therefore we know that it is the last hour. ¹⁹ They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us. But they went out, that it might become plain that they all are not of us.” (1 John 2:18–19 ESV)  

For the next several days we are taking a sabbatical from our study of the Gospel of Matthew. Instead, we are revisiting the topic of Deconstructing Christianity. We examined this subject in 2023. Perhaps you have heard this term, or others like it. What exactly is Deconstruction or Deconstructing Christianity?

Faith deconstruction, also known as deconstructing faith, evangelical deconstruction, the deconstruction movement, or simply deconstruction, is a Christian phenomenon where people unpack, rethink and examine their beliefs in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and their involvement in organized religion or the church.

Deconstructing Christianity is not a 21^st century church phenomenon. Defectors, or apostates, of the Gospel of Jesus Christ have existed since the beginning of the church. This is partly reflected in the truth of today’s text.

The Apostle John wrote to believers in Christ concerning their ongoing fellowship with not only their faith in Jesus Christ, but also with fellow believers (I John 1:1-4). He addressed these disciples as his little children, or children of God (I John 2:1, 18, 28; 3:2, 7, 10, 18; 4:4; 5:2) and the beloved (I John 3:2, 21; 4:1, 7).

Children (παιδίον; paidion) refers to an individual normally before puberty. It also refers to one who is the object of affection and concern. This not only refers to biological children, but as is the case with today’s text individuals who are children of God’s family.

John’s concern for these believers was because it was the last hour. The phrase last hour (ἔσχατος ὥρα; eschatos hora) refers to the time period between Jesus Christ’s ascension (Acts 2:1-11) and His return to earth in power, might and glory (Revelation 19-22).

“The term hour cannot be taken literally. Even though the phrase the last hour appears only here in the entire New Testament, it seems to be equivalent to the expressions the last days or these last times (see, among other passages, Acts 2:17; Heb. 1:2; James 5:3; 1 Peter 1:20),” explains Dr. William Hendriksen.

Characteristic of the last hour is the presence of antichrist/antichrists. Who were/are these individuals? Antichrist (ἀντίχριστος; antichristos), whether in the singular of plural form, literally means one who opposes Jesus Christ. Their presence is evidence the church is living in the last hour.

“The term ἀντίχριστος appears to have become increasingly equivalent to a proper name as the personification of all that was opposed to and contrary to the role and ministry of Christ,” states the Louw-Nida Greek Lexicon.    

The Apostle John continued to refer to antichrists in vs. 19. Using the plural pronoun they, he explained these individuals left the church. The phrase they went out from us (ἐξέρχομαι; exerchomai) means to actively and purposefully cease to exist or to depart from a previous state of being. In this context, it means ceasing to be affiliated with or identified as a believer in Christ.

“John looks at the spiritual development and the opposition of the world. He declares that “the world and its desires pass away” (2:17) to give place to the man who obeys the will of God. He notes that some people have left the church, because they denied that Jesus is the Christ. John calls them antichrists (2:18, 22); he observes that the spirit of the antichrist is already present in this world (4:3). Awaiting the return of Christ, but not knowing when that will take place (Acts 1:7), John seems to indicate that the period between the first and second coming of Jesus is “the last hour,” states Dr. Hendriksen.

John provided the reason for their departure; they were not of us. In other words, the antichrists were not true believers in Christ. They never existed in a regenerated condition resulting in true conversion by grace alone, through faith alone in the person and work of Jesus Christ alone (John 3:1-8; Eph. 2:1-5; Titus 3:1-5).

John concluded by writing, “For if they had been of us, they would have continued with us. But they went out, that it might become plain that they all are not of us.” True conversion results in true commitment and perseverance in the faith.

“The first characteristic mentioned of antichrists, i.e., false teachers and deceivers (vv. 22–26), is that they depart from the faithful (see vv. 22–23 for the second characteristic and v. 26 for the third). They arise from within the church and depart from true fellowship and lead people out with them. The verse also places emphasis on the doctrine of the perseverance of the saints. Those genuinely born again endure in faith and fellowship and the truth (1 Cor. 11:19; 2 Tim. 2:12). The ultimate test of true Christianity is endurance (Mark 13:13; Heb. 3:14). The departure of people from the truth and the church is their unmasking,” explains Dr. John MacArthur.

An individual’s self-acknowledged departure from the Christian faith reveals their unconverted spiritual condition. Whatever shortcomings the true church may have, and it has some, the primary point here is the lost condition of those who departed from the faith. They did not lose their salvation in Christ. Rather, the Bible reveals they never truly possessed faith in Christ. True conversion results in true perseverance. True perseverance evidences true conversion.

Soli deo Gloria!  

¹⁸ Children, it is the last hour, and as you have heard that antichrist is coming, so now many antichrists have come. Therefore we know that it is the last hour. ¹⁹ They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us. But they went out, that it might become plain that they all are not of us.” (1 John 2:18–19 ESV)

For the next several days we are taking a sabbatical from our study of the Gospel of Matthew. Instead, we are revisiting the topic Deconstructing Christianity. We initially taught this subject in 2023. Perhaps you have heard this term, or others like it. What is Deconstructing Christianity or Deconstructing Faith?

Faith deconstruction, also known as deconstructing faith, evangelical deconstruction, the deconstruction movement, or simply deconstruction, is a Christian phenomenon where people unpack, rethink and reexamine their belief in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and their involvement in organized religion or the evangelical church.

For some, it is rejecting justification by grace alone, through faith alone in the person and work of Jesus Christ alone. For others, this may lead to dropping one’s faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord all together or it may result in an even stronger faith in Christ. The deconstruction movement is broadly defined but generally involves a reexamination, and often a rejection, of the doctrines of biblical Christianity.

“Deconstruction is the process of systemically dissecting and often rejecting the beliefs you grew up with. Sometimes, the Christian will deconstruct all the way to atheism. Some remain there, but others experience a reconstruction. But the type of faith they end up with embracing almost never resembles the Christianity they formerly knew,” states author Ivan Mesa, book editor at The Gospel Coalition.

Prominent former Christians who underwent deconstruction include author Joshua Harris (who briefly offered a course on deconstruction), Abraham Piper, and worship leader/composer Marty Sampson.

I recently became aware of statements Marty Sampson expressed regarding Christianity in general, and worship music in particular. Mr. Sampson, Hillsong worship leader and song writer, confessed the real reason behind the lack of depth in his songs.

“I just don’t have any real faith in this Jesus bloke, but I can write a good love song with the best of them and that’s been the secret to my success,” explained Sampson.

When asked why he has turned away from the faith, he responded: “Nobody talks about hard stuff – and by no-one I mean those in my middle-class Western Christian bubble and obviously I’m ignoring all those passages in the Bible which do or the last 1,500 years of theological thought.”

In his now deleted Instagram post he revealed more. Sampson states: “I mean how many preachers fall? Many. Whereas in the Bible people like Moses, David and Peter never fell.  How many miracles happen in our comfortable version of Christianity? Not many. But no-one talks about the miracles that happen daily for those under persecution and on the front line.

“I mean what kind of God requires that we actually go out and tell people about Jesus so that they are rescued from Hell? They should just all go to heaven without repentance that would create such a perfect place.“

“Christianity is just one version of God – all the other religions where God doesn’t sacrifice himself for mankind and people have to earn their way to heaven by their own works have something to say too.“

“I know I keep contradicting myself but I’ll ignore that and point out how the Bible is full of contradictions.  I want genuine truth without Jesus. Unfollow me if you want, I’ve never been about living my life for others, as Jesus will testify.”

However, Sampson is optimistic about his future, “Currently there is no-one writing songs for the ex-evangelical group. This is a great opportunity for me to tap this market and write some angsty songs so I can continue to live in my ‘real’ bubble.”

I want to examine Mr. Sampson’s criticisms of biblical truth. Are his conclusions true, or just worn-out clichés? If he is accurate in some of his observations regarding ministry, then the church needs to repent of its sin and reevaluate its mission, vision and values. If he is wrong, and he is,, a respectful reply is warranted (I Peter 3:13-17). His statements require a truthful response. I prayerfully intend to provide such a response.

Soli deo Gloria!  

²⁷ “Then Peter said in reply, “See, we have left everything and followed you. What then will we have?” ²⁸ Jesus said to them, “Truly, I say to you, in the new world, when the Son of Man will sit on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. ²⁹ And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands, for my name’s sake, will receive a hundredfold and will inherit eternal life. ³⁰ But many who are first will be last, and the last first.” (Matthew 19:27–30 (ESV)

Jesus’ promises to the twelve disciples, excluding Judas Iscariot, were a direct response to Peter’s observation in vs. 27. What promises did Jesus make?

First, Jesus emphasized the truth, or reality, of what He said. “Truly, I say to you.” Second, there will be new world. New world (παλιγγενεσία; palingenesia) literally means renewal or regeneration. Third, Jesus said He would sit on a glorious throne stressing His authority, praiseworthiness, and supernatural power as God. Fourth, the disciples will also sit on twelve thrones occupying positions of delegated authority in the future kingdom.

However, Jesus did not exclude other believers in Christ from His future plans. He made additional statements for all disciples to keep in mind in anticipation of the future eternal state. Jesus provided a heavenly perspective on life and living.

Jesus acknowledged following Him would include sacrifice. This involves prioritizing all other human relationships as secondary to one’s primary covenant relationship with Christ. To leave (ἀφίημι; aphiemi) means to depart from, leave behind and abandon. This does not mean forsaking Christ-like behavior or family responsibilities (Eph. 5:22-6:4). It does mean that all other relationships believers have are secondary to, and framed by, one’s worship and service for the Lord. Our love for Christ should positively impact our love for others.

“This promise is for all who have in life chosen Christ above everybody and everything else, even above their nearest relatives and most cherished possessions. They have made the sacrifice, says Jesus, “for my name’s sake,” explained in Mark 10:29 as meaning “for my sake.” The “name” of Jesus indicates Jesus himself as he has revealed himself. See also on Matt. 6:9; 7:22; 10:22, 41, 42; 12:21,” comments Dr. William Hendriksen.

Jesus also said such a prioritized life would result in a hundredfold recompense or remuneration. In other words, a reward. Such followers receive the blessings indicated in such passages as Prov. 15:16; 16:8; Matt. 7:7; John 17:3; Rom. 8:26–39; Phil. 4:7; 1 Tim. 6:6; Heb. 6:19, 20; 10:34; 1 Peter 1:8.

When I became a Christian, my closest friends and family-like relationships became other believers in Christ. This change did not occur overnight but gradually and permanently. My greatest joys, deepest sorrows, and greatest concerns were, and are, shared with brothers and sisters in the Lord. Through these past 50 years since my conversion, this has remained a constant blessing. “The blessings of salvation far exceed anything that one must forsake to obtain them (I Cor. 2:9),” states Dr. R.C. Sproul.

The phrase “will inherit eternal life” means that what believers in Christ possess on earth in principle will be fully realized in heaven. “All the spiritual blessings that are bestowed upon God’s children in the present life “in principle” will be theirs “in full measure” in the hereafter. On and after the day of Christ’s return in glory material blessings will be added to the spiritual. They shall inherit them, in the present context implying that a. they are freely given to them, not earned by them; b. the gift is based upon justice: they were earned for them and are therefore theirs by right; and c. they are theirs forever,” explains Dr. Hendriksen.

Finally, the Lord evaluates recompensed rewards differently than humans. Honor in this present life on earth does not necessarily translate to a similar status in heaven. Often, the opposite is true. Jesus’ disciples are not called to be served, but rather to serve (Matt. 20:25-28). The kingdom principle of recompense is not based on worldly stature or success but rather upon divine grace.

“There does not seem to be any good reason for saying that Jesus meant that all of those who “shall be last” are going to be lost or outside the kingdom. Fact is: not only are there degrees of suffering in hell (Luke 12:47, 48), there are also degrees of glory in the restored universe (1 Cor. 15:41, 42). There will be surprises however. Not only will many of those who are now regarded as the very pillars of the church be last, but also many who never made the headlines—think of the poor widow who contributed “two mites” (Mark 12:42), and Mary of Bethany whose act of loving lavishness was roundly criticized by the disciples (Matt. 26:8)—shall be first on the day of judgment (Mark 12:43, 44; Matt. 26:10–13). The disciples, who were constantly quarreling about rank (Matt. 18:1; 20:20; Luke 22:24) better take note,” concludes Dr. Hendriksen.  

Soli deo Gloria!

²⁷ “Then Peter said in reply, “See, we have left everything and followed you. What then will we have?” ²⁸ Jesus said to them, “Truly, I say to you, in the new world, when the Son of Man will sit on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. ²⁹ And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands, for my name’s sake, will receive a hundredfold and will inherit eternal life. ³⁰ But many who are first will be last, and the last first.” (Matthew 19:27–30 (ESV)

Jesus’ promises to the twelve disciples, excluding Judas Iscariot, are a direct response to Peter’s observation in vs. 27. What promises did Jesus make?

First, Jesus emphasized the truth, or reality, of what He said. “Truly, I say to you.” Truly (ἀμήν; amen) refers to what is indeclinable. It is a statement of reality. It means a strong affirmation. The Lord involved His own authority in what He said (Matt. 5:17-48).

Second, there will be new world. New world (παλιγγενεσία; palingenesia) literally means renewal or regeneration. It is the same word Jesus used in John 3:1-5 when referring to the new birth, or regeneration, needed for the sinner’s conversion. However, here it refers to the new heaven and the new earth (Rev. 21:1).

Third, Jesus said He would sit on a glorious throne. To sit (καθίζω; kathizo) refers to having authority. Glorious (δόξα; doxa) means praiseworthy and honorable. Throne (θρόνος; thronos) means supernatural power and authority to rule. This is a statement of Jesus’ magnificent deity.  

Fourth, the disciples will also sit on twelve thrones. Those who follow Jesus in this context refers specifically to the twelve. They will personally occupy positons of delegated authority. Their responsibility will be to judge or govern Israel.

“Jesus assures these twelve disciples—excluding Judas, but since he would be replaced the number twelve is still correct—that even though it is God who is the sole Author of their salvation, they themselves will be richly rewarded for the sacrifice they have made and are making,” explains Dr. William Hendriksen.

Rewards and honors for faithful service is clearly taught in Scripture. Is the reward of grace from God (Gen. 22:15–18; Ps. 25:12–15; Dan. 12:3; Matt. 5:1–12; 10:32, 41, 42; 11:28–30; 25:34–40; Luke 12:32, 37, 43, 44; 19:17–19; 1 Cor. 3:14; 9:17; Col. 2:18; 3:24; 2 Thess. 1:7–10; Heb. 10:35; 11:6, 26; 2 John 8; Rev. 2:7, 10, 17, 26–28; 3:5, 10–12, 21; 22:12).

“What is meant by these “twelve tribes of Israel”? In all probability the term refers to the restored new Israel. Whether, as such, it indicates the total number of the elect gathered out of the twelve tribes of the Jews from the beginning to the end of the world’s history (cf. Rom. 11:26), or even all the chosen ones of both the Jews and the Gentiles (cf. Gal. 6:16), in either case it must refer to those who have been regenerated, for into the reborn universe to which 19:28 refers nothing unclean will ever enter (Rev. 21:27),”  states Dr. Hendriksen.

“The Twelve, who have followed Jesus here, having remained loyal to him in his trials (Luke 22:28), are going to receive the special reward that among all the members belonging to the new Israel they will be pre-eminent in reflecting the glory of their Lord and Savior. Those who have been closest to Jesus here will also be closest to him there. See also 2 Tim. 2:11, 12; Rev. 3:21; 20:4.”

What a glimpse today into the glorious eternity awaiting the apostles. Tomorrow, we will see what Jesus said about the glorious eternity awaiting all believers in Christ. Until next time!

Soli deo Gloria!

²⁷ “Then Peter said in reply, “See, we have left everything and followed you. What then will we have?” ²⁸ Jesus said to them, “Truly, I say to you, in the new world, when the Son of Man will sit on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. ²⁹ And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands, for my name’s sake, will receive a hundredfold and will inherit eternal life. ³⁰ But many who are first will be last, and the last first.” (Matthew 19:27–30 (ESV)

• “Cheap grace is the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance, baptism without church discipline, Communion without confession, absolution without personal confession.”
• “When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die.”
• “Discipleship means allegiance to the suffering Christ, and it is therefore not at all surprising that Christians should be called upon to suffer.”
• “Costly grace confronts us as a gracious call to follow Jesus.”
• “The followers of Jesus are to be different and not just in some minimal sense, but in the most profound way possible.”

The previous selected quotes are from German pastor Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906-1945) from his book The Cost of Discipleship. One author explains, “Bonhoeffer was a Christian pastor and seminary professor living in Germany in the 1930s. He wrote The Cost of Discipleship as a wake-up call for the church, which he felt had rendered Christianity somewhat meaningless by making discipleship too “easy.” He lived as he preached—his Christian beliefs compelled him to speak out against Adolf Hitler’s regime and ultimately led to his execution in 1945.”  

What a contrast are Bonhoeffer’s words to those of the popular health and wealth preachers who promise a “best life now” scenario for followers of Christ. For many believers, they want a heaven on earth at all costs rather than following Jesus whatever the cost.

Following the Lord’s encounter with the rich, young ruler (Matt. 19:16-22), and Jesus’ instructions on the hindrance of riches (Matt. 19:23-26), Peter replied, ““See, we have left everything and followed you. What then will we have?”

Peter’s statement was in direct response to the behavior of the rich young ruler who departed from Jesus because the Lord’s demands of discipleship were too costly. Jesus demands everything for those who follow Him. Total allegiance is required.

Peter and the other apostles, with the possible exception of Judas Iscariot, had indeed left everything they previously owned and known. The departed their families, their work and even their social status to become followers of Jesus.

“Peter points out that they had already done what Christ demanded of the rich young ruler (v. 21). They had embarked on the life of faith with Christ. Notice that Jesus did not rebuke Peter for his expectation of reward (cf. Rev. 22:12),” explains Dr. John MacArthur.

“Had The Twelve not done exactly what Jesus had asked the young man to do? Had they not “left everything” and followed Jesus? The answer, then, would seem to be obvious, namely, that The Twelve would have treasure in heaven. Nevertheless, Peter seems not to have been entirely certain about this, for the Master had also declared that with men it is impossible to be saved, and that it is God, he alone, who imparts salvation (verses 23, 24, 26),” states Dr. William Hendriksen.

What followed was a comforting answer from the Lord. We will consider this when next we meet. In the meantime, consider Jesus’ demand for total commitment. Have a blessed day in the Lord.

Soli deo Gloria!

John Charles Ryle (10 May 1816 – 10 June 1900) was an English evangelical Anglican bishop. For the next several days, His Word Today reprints Ryle’s essay of The Rich Young Man. Today is the final installment. May the Lord edify you.

“You see, in the last place, from this young man’s case, that one idol cherished in the heart may ruin a soul forever. Our Lord, who knew what was in man, at last shows His inquirer his besetting sin. The same searching voice which said to the Samaritan woman, “Go, call thy husband” (John iv. 16), said to the young man, “Go, sell that thou hast, and give to the poor.”

“At once the weak point in his character was detected. It turned out that, with all his wishes and desires after eternal life, there was one thing he loved better than his soul, and that was his money. He could not stand the test. He was weighed in the balance and found wanting. And the history ends with the melancholy words, “He went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.”

“You have in this history one more proof of the truth, “The love of money is the root of all evil.” (1 Tim. VI. 10.) You must place this young man in your memory by the side of Judas, Ananias, and Sapphira, and learn to beware of covetousness. Alas, it is a rock on which thousands are continually making shipwreck!”

“There is hardly a minister of the Gospel who could not point too many in his congregation, who, humanly speaking, are “not far from the kingdom of God.” But they never seem to make progress. They wish, they feel, they mean, they hope: but there they stick fast! And why? Because they are fond of money. Reader, prove your own self, as you leave the passage. See how it touches your own soul. Are you honest and sincere in your professed desire to be a true Christian? Have you given up your idols? Is there no secret sin that you are silently clinging to, and refusing to give up? Is there no thing or person that you are privately loving more than Christ and your soul? These are questions that ought to be answered.”

“The true explanation of the unsatisfactory state of many hearers of the Gospel, is spiritual idolatry. St. John might well say, “Keep yourselves from idols.” (1 John V. 21.) Reader, if you want to be saved, seek first and foremost to be rich in grace. Ask the Lord Jesus Christ to give you “gold tried in the fire, that you may be rich.” (Rev. III. 18.) “Lay up for yourself treasure in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through and steal” (Matt. VI. 20.).”

“This is the only treasure that endures forever. The gold and silver of this world cannot be carried beyond the grave. The grace of God and the peace which Christ gives, are the only lasting possessions. He who has them will be rich for evermore; he who dies without them will be a pauper to all eternity.”

Soli deo Gloria!

John Charles Ryle (10 May 1816 – 10 June 1900) was an English evangelical Anglican bishop. For the next several days, His Word Today reprints J.C. Ryle’s essay of The Rich Young Man. Today is the second installment. May the Lord edify you.

“You see, for another thing, from this young man’s case, that an unconverted person is often profoundly ignorant on spiritual subjects. Our Lord refers this inquirer to the eternal standard of right and wrong,—the moral law. Seeing that he spoke so boldly about “doing,” He tried him by a command well calculated to draw out the real state of his heart: “If thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.” He even repeated to him the second table of the law.—And at once the young man confidently replies, “All these have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet?”

“So utterly ignorant was he of the spirituality of God’s statutes, that he never doubted that he had perfectly fulfilled them. He seemed thoroughly unaware that the commandments apply to the thoughts and words, as well as to the deeds, and that if God were to enter into judgment with him, he could “not answer Him one of a thousand.” (Job ix. 3.) How dark must his mind have been as to the nature of God’s law! How low must his ideas have been as to the holiness which God requires!”

“It is a melancholy fact that ignorance, like that of this young man, is only too common in the Church of Christ. There are thousands of baptized people who know no more of the leading doctrines of Christianity than the heathen. Tens of thousands fill churches and chapels weekly, who are utterly in the dark as to the full extent of man’s sinfulness. They cling obstinately to the old notion, that in some sort or other their own doings can save them,—and when ministers visit them on their death-beds, they prove as blind as if they had never heard truth at all.”

“So true is it, that the “natural man receives not the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him.” (1 Cor. ii. 14.) Reader, what is the state of your own soul in the matter of spiritual knowledge? You go to church perhaps; you hear the commandments read; you profess to believe and obey them: but do you really know the length and breadth of their requirements? Oh, beware of spiritual ignorance! It is possible to have eyes and yet not to see.”

To those who have ears to hear, may they hear and understand.

Soli deo Gloria!

John Charles Ryle (10 May 1816 – 10 June 1900) was an English evangelical Anglican bishop. He was the first Anglican bishop of Liverpool. He was a writer, pastor and an evangelical preacher. Among his longer works are Christian Leaders of the Eighteenth Century (1869), Expository Thoughts on the Gospels (7 vols, 1856–69), and Principles for Churchmen (1884).

For the next several days, His Word Today reprints Ryle’s essay of The Rich Young Man. Be edified and enjoy.

“READER, you have in these verses (Matt. 19:16-22) a conversation between our Lord Jesus Christ and a young man who came to Him to inquire about the way to eternal life. Like every conversation in the Gospels between our Lord and an individual, it deserves special attention. Salvation is a matter in which every one must act for himself. Everyone who wishes to be saved must have private personal dealings with Christ about his own soul.”Ry

You see, for one thing, from the case of this young man, that a person may have desires after salvation, and yet not be saved. Here is one who in a day of abounding unbelief comes of his own accord to Christ. He comes not to have a sickness healed; he comes not to plead about a child: he comes about his own soul. He opens the conference with the frank question, “Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?” Surely, you might have thought, “This is a promising case: this is no prejudiced ruler or Pharisee: this is a hopeful inquirer.”

Yet by and by this very young man “goes away sorrowful;”—and you never read a word to show that he was converted! Reader, you must never forget that good feelings alone in religion are not the grace of God. You may know the truth intellectually; you may often feel pricked in conscience; you may have religious affections awakened within your heart, have many anxieties about your soul, and shed many tears: but all this is not conversion. It is not the genuine, saving work of the Holy Ghost.

Unhappily this is not all that must be said on this point. Not only are good feelings alone not grace, but they are even positively dangerous, if you content yourselves with them, and do not act as well as feel. Actions often repeated produce a habit in man’s mind; feelings often indulged, without leading to actions, will finally exercise no influence at all. Reader, apply this lesson to your own state.

Perhaps you know what it is to feel religious fears, wishes, and desires. Beware that you do not rest in them. Never be satisfied till you have the witness of the Spirit in your heart that you are actually born again, and made a new creature. Never rest till you know that you have really repented, and laid hold on Jesus Christ and the hope set before you in the Gospel. It is good to feel; but it is far better to be converted.

Soli deo Gloria!

²⁵ “When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished, saying, “Who then can be saved?” ²⁶ But Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:25–26 (ESV)

Jesus explained to His disciples the impossibility of anyone being justified before God on the basis of their own personal merit. The Scriptures thoroughly emphasize this truth (Isaiah 64:6; Jeremiah 17:9; Ezekiel 36:26-27; Romans 3:9-20; Galatians 2:15-16; Ephesians 2:1-3; Colossians 2:13-15).

Upon hearing Jesus say this, the disciples were greatly astonished. To be astonished (ἐκπλήσσω; ekplesso) means to be continually astounded and amazed. Another meaning is to be in a state of panic. The adjective greatly (σφόδρα; sphodra) means exceedingly and extremely. You have a group of people who did not like what they heard and understood Jesus to say.

They responded by asking, “Who then can be saved?” Saved (σῴζω; sozo) means to deliver. This was the right question to ask. This is one of the few times the disciples correctly grasped the significance and meaning of Jesus’ words. They may not have liked His words, but they understood them. They wondered who could be delivered from their sin?

Jesus’ reply echoed the theme of divine grace. “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Impossible (ἀδύνατος; adynatos) refers to weakness, helplessness and powerlessness. Salvation is impossible for fallen man to achieve. However, salvation is not impossible with God. He can, and does, save people from the penalty, power and eventual presence of sin. He has the ability to do so.

John Calvin writes, “Christ does not extenuate the danger – though He perceives the terror which it excited in His disciples – but rather increases it. Though formerly he said only that it was difficult, He now affirms it to be impossible. He teaches them to rely on the grace of God alone.”

“The disciples were right to conclude that it is impossible, humanly speaking, for anyone—rich or poor—to be saved. But the transformation of the human heart is possible for the Lord. In today’s passage, then, we have a remarkably clear teaching from Christ on the necessity of divine grace. Without God’s grace, no sinner could ever be saved,” explains Dr. R. C. Sproul.

The only hope any sinner has is in the person and work of Jesus Christ alone, applied to individual by God’s sovereign grace alone, through faith, according to Scripture alone for the glory of God alone.

Soli deo Gloria!