Further Still

Which of these concepts has to come first in order to understand

the other—

faith or obedience?

Faith—proof of what we believe

Obedience—the way we choose to live

Saving Faith consists of three elements:1.MENTAL: the mind understands the gospel and the truth about Christ2.EMOTIONAL: one emotionally embraces the truthfulness of those facts with sorrow over sin and joy over God’s mercy and grace3.VOLITIONAL: the sinner surrenders his will to Christ and trusts in Him as the only hope of salvation

17For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is

written, The just shall live by faith. 18For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness

and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; 19

Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath

shewed it unto them.

What is righteousness?

Paul presents the standard of God…

Vv. 17 Righteousness (appears 30 times in Romans) of/from God:

the state or condition of perfectly conforming to God’s perfect law and holy character.” (McArthur)

Same Greek root is translated justified/justification (Also appears 30

times in Romans)

Target Word

Strong’s Number

Transliteration Definition

righteousness 1343 dikaiosunē righteousness, justice

How do we learn about faith?

17For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is

written, The just shall live by faith. 18For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness

and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; 19

Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath

shewed it unto them.

What does from faith to faith mean?

Target Word

Strong’s Number

Transliteration Definition

faith 4102 pisteōs assurance, pledge, proof

This could mean:--a parallel statement from vv. 16 to everyone who believes

--this righteousness is from God alone; from beginning to end

-from the faithfulness of God to the faith of receiving man

--from the faith depending on God (Creator/Judge) to the faith depending on Christ (Mediator/Messiah)

--from faith when we are justified (spirit) to the faith when we are glorified (body)

--from faith taking Christ as Savior to faith allowing Him to be our life

How is man EVER capable of living justly/righteously?

17For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is

written, The just shall live by faith. 18For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness

and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; 19

Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath

shewed it unto them.

Paul presents God’s case…

17For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is

written, The just shall live by faith. 18For the wrath of God is revealed

from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who

hold the truth in unrighteousness; 19Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath

shewed it unto them.

Who are these people whom God reveals unrighteousness and

ungodliness?

How does God reveal the truth of the sin of the irreligious, immoral,

pagan?

17For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is

written, The just shall live by faith. 18For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness

and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; 19

Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath

shewed it unto them.

How will God show their unrighteousness and ungodliness to

them?

Matthew Henry states that the best way to understand the truths explained

in the formerpart of the book of Romans (the

doctrine) is to ABIDE and ABOUND in the practice of the duties prescribed

In the latter part (the practical.) “For if any man will do His will, he shall know

of the doctrine….” John 7:17

As we raise our children, so shall we be raised.

Obey first, Understand (faith) later.

Matthew 18:3Unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means

enter the Kingdom of Heaven.