Connected in The Word 10-23-25
For there is no distinction: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. Romans 3:22b-25a
Sometimes I spend too much time talking theology with pastors. Don’t get me wrong, it’s VERY GOOD for pastors to study together and to encourage one another. But when pastors get together to study, they use words like justification, propitiation, and redemption. They might discuss Greek words or get excited if someone mentions “AC 4” in the conversation. When I’m walking through Walmart, I don’t generally overhear conversations about justification by grace through faith or anyone referencing Article 4 of the Augsburg Confession (AC 4). As a pastor, I need to be able to speak the Good News of Jesus using words anyone can understand.
That’s not to say I shouldn’t use all the theological words I mentioned in the last paragraph. The truths conveyed in these words are rich, deep, and life changing. I want people to get excited about these words and truths. But if someone is not familiar with words like justification, redemption, and propitiation it doesn’t matter how excited I get – The person is not going to understand. I need to be able to explain the Good News of Jesus in a way that anyone can understand.
One of the best parts of my job is that I get to share Jesus with people of many ages. In one day, I may do a preschool chapel, lead a Bible study for elderly folks, teach a confirmation class, and even do a high school chapel. Sharing the Gospel with different age groups is a great way to practice speaking in a language people can understand. Paul uses some big words in the verses above. I’m guessing most of you understand the beautiful Truth being conveyed. So, here’s the next step. Practice speaking the Beautiful Truth of Romans 3:22-25 in a way that anyone could understand!
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