The story of a redeemer dates back to the Garden of Eden when Adam and Eve sinned and God promised to send a Messiah in the future. Abraham was later promised the world would be blessed because of his offspring. A lot of Christians mistake this promise for the nation of Israel, but the Bible is very clear that Jesus was the fulfillment of that pledge. In the meantime, the Mosaic law served as a teacher to guide mankind toward the future Messiah.

Salvation is entirely a work of God. The only thing we can do is accept or reject the free salvation offered. Our depravity is display for all to see, yet God the Father loved mankind enough to send His only begotten Son. Did we deserve such grace? No, the unmerited favor was extended as proof of the value we have in God’s eyes.

Adam’s choice to eat the forbidden fruit plunged humanity into sin. Death is the result of sin. In contrast, there is life in Christ and His obedience to carry out the salvation plan which makes it possible for us to be righteous in the sight of God when we repent.

Jesus lived on the earth as a man for more than three decades and was tempted in all ways like us with the distinction He was perfect and did not sin. Most people think of themselves as good, but God says mankind is sinful. As with all problems, the first step to overcoming any problem, is admitting the problem exists in the first place. We need to be honest about our shortcomings.

The salvation offered by God is predicated upon faith. The Bible says that “faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” It means putting your trust completely in God. Jesus understands exactly what He is asking and will reward you accordingly when you seek Him.

Christianity is not about being religious, but having a personal relationship with God. It’s just a matter of taking a step of faith and asking Jesus to save you.

Print out the sermon outline and let's examine the Scriptures together Sunday morning at 9:00 AM PST.

Yours in Christ,

Pastor John S. Torell