The Abrahamic Covenant - Part Four

It is through the following blessing that God’s salvation to all mankind will come, by way of the Messiah.

Genesis 12:3: …And in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” 
(kjv)

This speaks of God’s intention to ultimately make mercy nonexclusive. Jesus Christ is the one who makes this possible as the mediator between God and man. He is the one who alone is able to make mankind acceptable to God by his perfect obedience and sacrifice. Even though the covenant is dependent on God’s grace, there must accompany it necessary evidence of that grace in those who are effectually called.

James 2:23: And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.” And he was called the friend of God. 24 You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only. 
(kjv)

Although Abraham did have sin, he had faith in God which enabled to be a friend of God. Abraham was not exempted from the rule of obedience. His faith led him on to becoming obedient to God.

Likewise the Christian is called by God and saved by his grace. He is not saved because of his works, by his keeping of the law. His religious endeavours can only be acceptable through the mediation of Jesus Christ who fulfils the law on his behalf. However, just because God has saved him doesn’t mean he is free to live as he pleases. Obedience is still an important part of the new covenant. However, this is achieved through God’s grace with help from the Holy Spirit. The Christian is enabled to become more practically obedient through the knowledge of Jesus Christ and faith. Grace doesn’t do away with the law it fulfils it.

Link to Part One