Thematic Bible
Thematic Bible
Abraham » God's covenant with
the oath which he sware to Abraham our father,
Verse Concepts
For not by the law [came] the promise to Abraham and his seed, that he should be heir of the world, but by the righteousness of faith.
Verse Concepts
Now I say that Jesus Christ was the minister of circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers:
Verse Concepts
For God when he gave the promise to Abraham forasmuch as he had nothing greater to swear by, sware by himself, saying, "Verily, blessing, I will bless thee, and multiplying, I will multiply thee."
as Abraham believed in God, and it was imputed to him for righteousness. Know then that they who are of faith, these are the children of Abraham. And the scripture foreseeing that by faith God would justify the Gentiles, preached the gospel before unto Abraham, saying, that "In thee shall all the nations be blessed." read more.
Wherefore they who are of faith are blessed with believing Abraham. For as many as are of the works of the law, are under a curse: for it is written, "Cursed is every one who continueth not in all the things written in the book of the law to do them." But that by the law no man is justified before God is evident: because "The just by faith shall live." Now the law is not by faith: but "The man that doeth these things shall live by them." Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, "Cursed is every one who is hanged on a tree:" that unto the Gentiles the benediction pronounced on Abraham might come by Jesus Christ, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit by faith. Brethren, I speak humanly; to use a similitude, a man's testament, if it be passed in legal form, no man can vacate, or add thereunto. But to Abraham were the promises spoken, and to his seed. He saith not, To seeds, as unto many persons; but as to an individual, and to thy seed, which is Christ. Now this I say, the covenant confirmed of God to Christ, the law, which was given three hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, so as to vacate the promise. For if the inheritance is of the law, it is no more by promise; but to Abraham God gave it freely by promise.
Wherefore they who are of faith are blessed with believing Abraham. For as many as are of the works of the law, are under a curse: for it is written, "Cursed is every one who continueth not in all the things written in the book of the law to do them." But that by the law no man is justified before God is evident: because "The just by faith shall live." Now the law is not by faith: but "The man that doeth these things shall live by them." Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, "Cursed is every one who is hanged on a tree:" that unto the Gentiles the benediction pronounced on Abraham might come by Jesus Christ, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit by faith. Brethren, I speak humanly; to use a similitude, a man's testament, if it be passed in legal form, no man can vacate, or add thereunto. But to Abraham were the promises spoken, and to his seed. He saith not, To seeds, as unto many persons; but as to an individual, and to thy seed, which is Christ. Now this I say, the covenant confirmed of God to Christ, the law, which was given three hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, so as to vacate the promise. For if the inheritance is of the law, it is no more by promise; but to Abraham God gave it freely by promise.
But if ye are Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.
Verse Concepts
For it is written that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondwoman, and the other by a free. Now the son of the bond-maid was born after the flesh, but that by the free woman was by promise. Which things are allegorical; for these are the two covenants, the one from mount Sinai, gendering unto bondage, which is represented by Agar. read more.
For this Agar is mount Sinai in Arabia, and corresponds with Jerusalem that now is, and is in bondage with her children. But the Jerusalem above is free, which is the mother of us all. For it is written, "Rejoice, thou barren who bearest not, cry out and shout for joy, thou that travailest not, for more are the children of her that was desolate, than of her which had an husband." So we, brethren, as Isaac, are the children of the promise. But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so is it now. But what saith the scripture? "Cast out the bond-woman and her son for the son of the bond-maid shall in no wise inherit with the son of the free woman." So then, brethren, we are not the children of the bondwoman, but of the free.
For this Agar is mount Sinai in Arabia, and corresponds with Jerusalem that now is, and is in bondage with her children. But the Jerusalem above is free, which is the mother of us all. For it is written, "Rejoice, thou barren who bearest not, cry out and shout for joy, thou that travailest not, for more are the children of her that was desolate, than of her which had an husband." So we, brethren, as Isaac, are the children of the promise. But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so is it now. But what saith the scripture? "Cast out the bond-woman and her son for the son of the bond-maid shall in no wise inherit with the son of the free woman." So then, brethren, we are not the children of the bondwoman, but of the free.
Faith/faithfulness » What is achieved through and by faith
But as the lame man that was cured held fast Peter and John, all the people ran together unto them into the portico called Solomon's, in vast amazement. Then Peter observing it, addressed himself to the people, Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? or why gaze ye upon us, as if by our own power or piety we had enabled this man to walk? The God of Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified his Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and denied him in the presence of Pilate, when he had determined to release him. read more.
But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and besought that a man, a murderer, might as a favour be given unto you; but ye slew the Author of life, whom God raised from the dead: of which we are witnesses. And through faith in his name hath his name restored this man to strength, whom ye behold and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the sight of you all.
But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and besought that a man, a murderer, might as a favour be given unto you; but ye slew the Author of life, whom God raised from the dead: of which we are witnesses. And through faith in his name hath his name restored this man to strength, whom ye behold and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the sight of you all.
We conclude therefore that by faith a man is justified, without works of law. Is he the God of the Jews only, and is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, verily, of the Gentiles also: since it is one God who will justify the circumcision by faith, and the uncircumcision through faith. read more.
Do we then abolish the law through faith? God forbid: but on the contrary, we give the law stability.
Do we then abolish the law through faith? God forbid: but on the contrary, we give the law stability.
What then shall we say? That the Gentiles, who pursued not after righteousness, have attained unto righteousness, even the righteousness which is by faith.
Verse Concepts
And the scripture foreseeing that by faith God would justify the Gentiles, preached the gospel before unto Abraham, saying, that "In thee shall all the nations be blessed." Wherefore they who are of faith are blessed with believing Abraham. For as many as are of the works of the law, are under a curse: for it is written, "Cursed is every one who continueth not in all the things written in the book of the law to do them." read more.
But that by the law no man is justified before God is evident: because "The just by faith shall live." Now the law is not by faith: but "The man that doeth these things shall live by them." Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, "Cursed is every one who is hanged on a tree:" that unto the Gentiles the benediction pronounced on Abraham might come by Jesus Christ, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit by faith.
But that by the law no man is justified before God is evident: because "The just by faith shall live." Now the law is not by faith: but "The man that doeth these things shall live by them." Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, "Cursed is every one who is hanged on a tree:" that unto the Gentiles the benediction pronounced on Abraham might come by Jesus Christ, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit by faith.
For by grace ye are saved through faith, and this not of yourselves; it is the gift of God: not by works, lest any man should boast; for we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, for which God hath before prepared us, that we should walk therein.
NOW faith is the realizing confidence of the things hoped for, and the demonstration of things unseen: for thereby the ancients obtained a testimony of approbation. By faith we understand that the worlds were exactly formed by the word of God, so that the visible objects were not made out of things which now appear. read more.
By faith Abel offered unto God a sacrifice of more excellence than Cain, by which he received a testimony that he was a righteous man, God bearing witness upon his gifts: and by this, though dead, he still speaketh. By faith Enoch was translated, so as not to see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he was recorded to have been acceptable to God. But without faith it is impossible to be acceptable; for he must believe, who cometh unto God, that he exists, and is a rewarder of those who diligently seek him. By faith Noah, being divinely warned respecting things not yet seen, filled with reverential awe, prepared an ark for the salvation of his household, by which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith. By faith Abraham, called to go forth unto a place which he should in future obtain as an heritage, obeyed; and he went forth, not knowing whither he was going. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as a foreign land, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob, the co-heirs of the same promise. For he expected a city having foundations, of which God is the planner and architect. By faith also that very Sarah, who was barren, received ability for the conception of seed, and past the usual time of life brought forth a child, because she accounted that he who promised it, would be true to his promise.
By faith Abel offered unto God a sacrifice of more excellence than Cain, by which he received a testimony that he was a righteous man, God bearing witness upon his gifts: and by this, though dead, he still speaketh. By faith Enoch was translated, so as not to see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he was recorded to have been acceptable to God. But without faith it is impossible to be acceptable; for he must believe, who cometh unto God, that he exists, and is a rewarder of those who diligently seek him. By faith Noah, being divinely warned respecting things not yet seen, filled with reverential awe, prepared an ark for the salvation of his household, by which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith. By faith Abraham, called to go forth unto a place which he should in future obtain as an heritage, obeyed; and he went forth, not knowing whither he was going. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as a foreign land, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob, the co-heirs of the same promise. For he expected a city having foundations, of which God is the planner and architect. By faith also that very Sarah, who was barren, received ability for the conception of seed, and past the usual time of life brought forth a child, because she accounted that he who promised it, would be true to his promise.
Gentiles/heathen » Salvation coming to the gentiles
Then the apostles and presbyters were assembled to consider of this matter. When after much dispute, Peter arose, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know that a considerable time ago God chose among us, by my mouth, that the Gentiles should hear the gospel-word, and believe. And God, who is the discerner of the heart, bore them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as to us; read more.
and made no difference betwixt either us or them, purifying their hearts by faith. Why then now tempt ye God, by imposing a yoke on the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? But we believe that we shall be saved by the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, in the same way as they.
and made no difference betwixt either us or them, purifying their hearts by faith. Why then now tempt ye God, by imposing a yoke on the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? But we believe that we shall be saved by the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, in the same way as they.
So being divided in sentiment among themselves, they broke up, Paul adding one word, That well had the Holy Ghost spoken by Isaiah the prophet unto our fathers, saying, Go to this people, and say, "In hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, yet in nowise perceive. For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and with their ears they are thick of hearing, and their eyes have they shut; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their hearts, and become converts, and I should heal them." read more.
Be it known therefore unto you, that to the Gentiles is the salvation of God sent, and they will hear.
Be it known therefore unto you, that to the Gentiles is the salvation of God sent, and they will hear.
What then shall we say? That the Gentiles, who pursued not after righteousness, have attained unto righteousness, even the righteousness which is by faith. But Israel, pursuing after the law of righteousness, hath not come up to the law of righteousness. And why? Because they sought it not by faith, but as by the works of the law. For they stumbled against that stone of stumbling; read more.
as it is written, "Behold, I lay in Zion a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence: and every one that believeth in him shall not be confounded."
as it is written, "Behold, I lay in Zion a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence: and every one that believeth in him shall not be confounded."
I SAY then, Hath God rejected his people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. God hath not rejected his people whom he foreknew. Know ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession with God against Israel, saying, "Lord, they have killed thy prophets, and digged down thine altars; and I only am left, and they seek my life." read more.
But what saith the oracle of God to him? "I have left to myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal." So then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace. But if by grace, it is no more by works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if by works, it is no more grace: otherwise work is no more work. What then is the result? Israel hath not obtained that which it seeketh; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded, as it is written, "God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear; unto this present day." And David saith, "Let their table be for a snare, and for a trap, and for a stumbling-block, and for a recompence unto them: let their eyes be blinded, that they may not see, and bow down their back continually." I say then, Have they stumbled so as to fall? God forbid: but by their stumbling salvation is come to the Gentiles, to provoke them to jealousy. For if their stumbling is the riches of the world, and their diminution the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness? For I address myself to you Gentiles; inasmuch as I am indeed the apostle of the Gentiles, I exalt my ministry: if by any means I might provoke to jealousy my flesh, and save some of them. For if the rejection of them is the reconciliation of the world, what shall their recovery be, but life from the dead? Now if the first fruits be holy, so is the mass: and if the root be holy, so are the branches. But if some of the branches have been broken off, and thou though a wild olive hast been grafted in among them, and become a partaker of the root and fatness of the olive tree; boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee. Wilt thou say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be grafted in? Admitted; by unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not high minded, but fear: for if God spared not the native branches, tremble lest he spare not thee. Behold therefore the kindness and severity of God: to those indeed who fell, severity; but unto thee, kindness, if thou continuest in that kindness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. But they also, if they continue not in unbelief, shall be grafted in: for God is able to graft them in again. For if thou hast been cut out of the naturally wild olive, and contrary to nature hast been grafted into the good olive: how much more shall these, which are native branches, be grafted into their own olive tree? For I would not that you should be ignorant, brethren, of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is come on Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in. And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, "The Deliverer shall go forth out of Sion, and shalt turn away ungodliness from Jacob; and this is my covenant with them, When I shall take away their sins." As concerning the gospel indeed, they are now enemies for your sakes: as concerning the election, they are beloved for the fathers' sake. For unchangeable are the gifts and the calling of God. For as ye also in times past did not believe in God, but now have obtained mercy through their unbelief: so also these now have not believed in your mercy, that they also might obtain mercy. For God hath shut up all in unbelief, that he might have mercy upon all.
But what saith the oracle of God to him? "I have left to myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal." So then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace. But if by grace, it is no more by works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if by works, it is no more grace: otherwise work is no more work. What then is the result? Israel hath not obtained that which it seeketh; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded, as it is written, "God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear; unto this present day." And David saith, "Let their table be for a snare, and for a trap, and for a stumbling-block, and for a recompence unto them: let their eyes be blinded, that they may not see, and bow down their back continually." I say then, Have they stumbled so as to fall? God forbid: but by their stumbling salvation is come to the Gentiles, to provoke them to jealousy. For if their stumbling is the riches of the world, and their diminution the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness? For I address myself to you Gentiles; inasmuch as I am indeed the apostle of the Gentiles, I exalt my ministry: if by any means I might provoke to jealousy my flesh, and save some of them. For if the rejection of them is the reconciliation of the world, what shall their recovery be, but life from the dead? Now if the first fruits be holy, so is the mass: and if the root be holy, so are the branches. But if some of the branches have been broken off, and thou though a wild olive hast been grafted in among them, and become a partaker of the root and fatness of the olive tree; boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee. Wilt thou say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be grafted in? Admitted; by unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not high minded, but fear: for if God spared not the native branches, tremble lest he spare not thee. Behold therefore the kindness and severity of God: to those indeed who fell, severity; but unto thee, kindness, if thou continuest in that kindness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. But they also, if they continue not in unbelief, shall be grafted in: for God is able to graft them in again. For if thou hast been cut out of the naturally wild olive, and contrary to nature hast been grafted into the good olive: how much more shall these, which are native branches, be grafted into their own olive tree? For I would not that you should be ignorant, brethren, of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is come on Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in. And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, "The Deliverer shall go forth out of Sion, and shalt turn away ungodliness from Jacob; and this is my covenant with them, When I shall take away their sins." As concerning the gospel indeed, they are now enemies for your sakes: as concerning the election, they are beloved for the fathers' sake. For unchangeable are the gifts and the calling of God. For as ye also in times past did not believe in God, but now have obtained mercy through their unbelief: so also these now have not believed in your mercy, that they also might obtain mercy. For God hath shut up all in unbelief, that he might have mercy upon all.
as Abraham believed in God, and it was imputed to him for righteousness. Know then that they who are of faith, these are the children of Abraham. And the scripture foreseeing that by faith God would justify the Gentiles, preached the gospel before unto Abraham, saying, that "In thee shall all the nations be blessed." read more.
Wherefore they who are of faith are blessed with believing Abraham. For as many as are of the works of the law, are under a curse: for it is written, "Cursed is every one who continueth not in all the things written in the book of the law to do them." But that by the law no man is justified before God is evident: because "The just by faith shall live." Now the law is not by faith: but "The man that doeth these things shall live by them." Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, "Cursed is every one who is hanged on a tree:" that unto the Gentiles the benediction pronounced on Abraham might come by Jesus Christ, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit by faith.
Wherefore they who are of faith are blessed with believing Abraham. For as many as are of the works of the law, are under a curse: for it is written, "Cursed is every one who continueth not in all the things written in the book of the law to do them." But that by the law no man is justified before God is evident: because "The just by faith shall live." Now the law is not by faith: but "The man that doeth these things shall live by them." Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, "Cursed is every one who is hanged on a tree:" that unto the Gentiles the benediction pronounced on Abraham might come by Jesus Christ, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit by faith.
Justification » What you are justified by
But I tell you, That every idle word which men speak, for it shall they give an account in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.
as Abraham believed in God, and it was imputed to him for righteousness. Know then that they who are of faith, these are the children of Abraham. And the scripture foreseeing that by faith God would justify the Gentiles, preached the gospel before unto Abraham, saying, that "In thee shall all the nations be blessed." read more.
Wherefore they who are of faith are blessed with believing Abraham. For as many as are of the works of the law, are under a curse: for it is written, "Cursed is every one who continueth not in all the things written in the book of the law to do them." But that by the law no man is justified before God is evident: because "The just by faith shall live." Now the law is not by faith: but "The man that doeth these things shall live by them." Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, "Cursed is every one who is hanged on a tree:" that unto the Gentiles the benediction pronounced on Abraham might come by Jesus Christ, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit by faith.
Wherefore they who are of faith are blessed with believing Abraham. For as many as are of the works of the law, are under a curse: for it is written, "Cursed is every one who continueth not in all the things written in the book of the law to do them." But that by the law no man is justified before God is evident: because "The just by faith shall live." Now the law is not by faith: but "The man that doeth these things shall live by them." Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, "Cursed is every one who is hanged on a tree:" that unto the Gentiles the benediction pronounced on Abraham might come by Jesus Christ, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit by faith.
We conclude therefore that by faith a man is justified, without works of law. Is he the God of the Jews only, and is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, verily, of the Gentiles also: since it is one God who will justify the circumcision by faith, and the uncircumcision through faith.
But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? Was not our father Abraham justified by works, when he offered up Isaac his son upon the altar? Thou seest that faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith consummated. read more.
And the scripture was fulfilled, which saith, "Abraham believed God, and it was imputed to him for righteousness;" and he was called "the friend of God." Observe therefore that by works a man is justified, and not by faith merely. But was not Rahab the harlot in like manner justified by works, when she entertained the messengers, and sent them away by a different road?
And the scripture was fulfilled, which saith, "Abraham believed God, and it was imputed to him for righteousness;" and he was called "the friend of God." Observe therefore that by works a man is justified, and not by faith merely. But was not Rahab the harlot in like manner justified by works, when she entertained the messengers, and sent them away by a different road?
Law » Christ being the end of the law
But their understandings were darkened: for unto this day the same veil in their reading the old testament abideth unremoved; which veil is taken away by Christ. For unto this day, when Moses is read, the veil is spread over their hearts. Nevertheless, when Israel shall turn unto the Lord, the veil shall be taken away.
For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.
Verse Concepts
THERE is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath liberated me from the law of sin and of death. For that which was impossible by the law, inasmuch as it was impotent through the flesh, God having sent his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in that flesh: read more.
that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled by us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled by us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
ARE you unacquainted, brethren, (for I am speaking to those who know the law,) that the law exercises dominion over a person for as long time as he liveth? For the woman who is subject to a husband, is bound by the law to that husband during his life; but if the husband be dead, she is discharged from that husband. She shall therefore certainly be counted an adulteress, if, her husband being alive, she be for another man: but if her husband is dead, she is free from the law; so that she shall be no adulteress, though married to another husband. read more.
Wherefore, my brethren, ye also have become dead to the law through the body of Christ; that ye might be for another, who was raised from the dead, that we might bring forth fruit for God. For when we were in the flesh, the sinful passions excited by the law, wrought powerfully in our members, to bring forth fruit unto death. But now we have been discharged from the law, that being dead by which we were held fast; that we should serve in renovation of spirit, and not in the antiquity of the letter. What then shall we say? Is the law sin? God forbid. Yea, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not even known concupiscence, unless the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. But sin, seizing the opportunity by the law, wrought in me all concupiscence. For without the law sin is dead. For though I lived without the law formerly; yet when the commandment came, sin revived, but I died. And the commandment, which [was] for life, the same was found by me for death. For sin, seizing the occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and thereby slew me. So then the law indeed is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good. Did then that which is good become fatal to me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin by that which was good [in itself], was the cause of death to me; that sin through the commandment might become transcendantly sinful. For we know that the law is spiritual; but I am fleshly, sold under sin. For that which I am doing I approve not: for not the thing which I wish, that do I practise; but the very thing I hate, that I do. But if what I would not, that I do, I concur with the law that it is excellent. Now then no more I do this, but sin dwelling in me. For I know that there dwelleth not in me (that is, in my flesh) any good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. For I do not the good which I wish: but the evil which I would not, that I do. If then I do that which I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. I find then a law, that, when I wish to do good, evil is presented to me. For I am delighted with the law of God, as respecting the inward man: but I see another law in my members, militating against the law in my mind, and making me captive to the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man, I! who shall pluck me from the body of this death? I give thanks to God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Well then, I myself with my mind am servant to the law of God; but in my flesh to the law of sin.
Wherefore, my brethren, ye also have become dead to the law through the body of Christ; that ye might be for another, who was raised from the dead, that we might bring forth fruit for God. For when we were in the flesh, the sinful passions excited by the law, wrought powerfully in our members, to bring forth fruit unto death. But now we have been discharged from the law, that being dead by which we were held fast; that we should serve in renovation of spirit, and not in the antiquity of the letter. What then shall we say? Is the law sin? God forbid. Yea, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not even known concupiscence, unless the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. But sin, seizing the opportunity by the law, wrought in me all concupiscence. For without the law sin is dead. For though I lived without the law formerly; yet when the commandment came, sin revived, but I died. And the commandment, which [was] for life, the same was found by me for death. For sin, seizing the occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and thereby slew me. So then the law indeed is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good. Did then that which is good become fatal to me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin by that which was good [in itself], was the cause of death to me; that sin through the commandment might become transcendantly sinful. For we know that the law is spiritual; but I am fleshly, sold under sin. For that which I am doing I approve not: for not the thing which I wish, that do I practise; but the very thing I hate, that I do. But if what I would not, that I do, I concur with the law that it is excellent. Now then no more I do this, but sin dwelling in me. For I know that there dwelleth not in me (that is, in my flesh) any good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. For I do not the good which I wish: but the evil which I would not, that I do. If then I do that which I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. I find then a law, that, when I wish to do good, evil is presented to me. For I am delighted with the law of God, as respecting the inward man: but I see another law in my members, militating against the law in my mind, and making me captive to the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man, I! who shall pluck me from the body of this death? I give thanks to God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Well then, I myself with my mind am servant to the law of God; but in my flesh to the law of sin.
knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by faith in Christ, and not by works of the law; because by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. For if seeking to be justified by Christ, we also ourselves should be found sinners, is Christ then a minister of sin? God forbid. For if I build up again the very same things which I have pulled down, I stamp myself a transgressor. read more.
For I through the law am dead to the law, that I should live unto God. I am crucified with Christ, yet I live; though no more I, but Christ liveth in me: and my present life in the flesh, is a life by faith in the Son of God, who hath loved me, and delivered up himself for me. I do not set at nought the grace of God; for if righteousness came by the law, truly Christ hath died in vain.
For I through the law am dead to the law, that I should live unto God. I am crucified with Christ, yet I live; though no more I, but Christ liveth in me: and my present life in the flesh, is a life by faith in the Son of God, who hath loved me, and delivered up himself for me. I do not set at nought the grace of God; for if righteousness came by the law, truly Christ hath died in vain.
For as many as are of the works of the law, are under a curse: for it is written, "Cursed is every one who continueth not in all the things written in the book of the law to do them." But that by the law no man is justified before God is evident: because "The just by faith shall live." Now the law is not by faith: but "The man that doeth these things shall live by them." read more.
Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, "Cursed is every one who is hanged on a tree:" that unto the Gentiles the benediction pronounced on Abraham might come by Jesus Christ, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit by faith.
Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, "Cursed is every one who is hanged on a tree:" that unto the Gentiles the benediction pronounced on Abraham might come by Jesus Christ, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit by faith.
So we also, when we were infants, were in bondage under the first elementary principles of the world: but when the fulness of time was come, God sent forth his Son born of a woman, born under the law, that he might redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. read more.
But because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father! Therefore thou art no more a slave, but a son, and if a son, an heir also of God through Christ. But at that time when ye knew not God, ye served those who by nature are not gods. But now after having known God, or rather being known of God, how turn ye back again to those weak and beggarly elements, to which again a second time ye desire to be in bondage? Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years. I am afraid for you, lest haply I have bestowed on you labour in vain.
But because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father! Therefore thou art no more a slave, but a son, and if a son, an heir also of God through Christ. But at that time when ye knew not God, ye served those who by nature are not gods. But now after having known God, or rather being known of God, how turn ye back again to those weak and beggarly elements, to which again a second time ye desire to be in bondage? Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years. I am afraid for you, lest haply I have bestowed on you labour in vain.
but now in Christ Jesus, ye who formerly were far off, are become nigh by the blood of Christ. For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of separation, destroying the enmity in his flesh, even the law of precepts, in ordinances, that he might from the two create in himself one new man, making peace,
Law » What the law is not
For as many as are of the works of the law, are under a curse: for it is written, "Cursed is every one who continueth not in all the things written in the book of the law to do them." But that by the law no man is justified before God is evident: because "The just by faith shall live." Now the law is not by faith: but "The man that doeth these things shall live by them."
Salvation » Salvation coming to the gentiles
Then the apostles and presbyters were assembled to consider of this matter. When after much dispute, Peter arose, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know that a considerable time ago God chose among us, by my mouth, that the Gentiles should hear the gospel-word, and believe. And God, who is the discerner of the heart, bore them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as to us; read more.
and made no difference betwixt either us or them, purifying their hearts by faith. Why then now tempt ye God, by imposing a yoke on the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? But we believe that we shall be saved by the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, in the same way as they.
and made no difference betwixt either us or them, purifying their hearts by faith. Why then now tempt ye God, by imposing a yoke on the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? But we believe that we shall be saved by the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, in the same way as they.
So being divided in sentiment among themselves, they broke up, Paul adding one word, That well had the Holy Ghost spoken by Isaiah the prophet unto our fathers, saying, Go to this people, and say, "In hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, yet in nowise perceive. For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and with their ears they are thick of hearing, and their eyes have they shut; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their hearts, and become converts, and I should heal them." read more.
Be it known therefore unto you, that to the Gentiles is the salvation of God sent, and they will hear.
Be it known therefore unto you, that to the Gentiles is the salvation of God sent, and they will hear.
What then shall we say? That the Gentiles, who pursued not after righteousness, have attained unto righteousness, even the righteousness which is by faith. But Israel, pursuing after the law of righteousness, hath not come up to the law of righteousness. And why? Because they sought it not by faith, but as by the works of the law. For they stumbled against that stone of stumbling; read more.
as it is written, "Behold, I lay in Zion a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence: and every one that believeth in him shall not be confounded."
as it is written, "Behold, I lay in Zion a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence: and every one that believeth in him shall not be confounded."
I SAY then, Hath God rejected his people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. God hath not rejected his people whom he foreknew. Know ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession with God against Israel, saying, "Lord, they have killed thy prophets, and digged down thine altars; and I only am left, and they seek my life." read more.
But what saith the oracle of God to him? "I have left to myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal." So then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace. But if by grace, it is no more by works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if by works, it is no more grace: otherwise work is no more work. What then is the result? Israel hath not obtained that which it seeketh; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded, as it is written, "God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear; unto this present day." And David saith, "Let their table be for a snare, and for a trap, and for a stumbling-block, and for a recompence unto them: let their eyes be blinded, that they may not see, and bow down their back continually." I say then, Have they stumbled so as to fall? God forbid: but by their stumbling salvation is come to the Gentiles, to provoke them to jealousy. For if their stumbling is the riches of the world, and their diminution the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness? For I address myself to you Gentiles; inasmuch as I am indeed the apostle of the Gentiles, I exalt my ministry: if by any means I might provoke to jealousy my flesh, and save some of them. For if the rejection of them is the reconciliation of the world, what shall their recovery be, but life from the dead? Now if the first fruits be holy, so is the mass: and if the root be holy, so are the branches. But if some of the branches have been broken off, and thou though a wild olive hast been grafted in among them, and become a partaker of the root and fatness of the olive tree; boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee. Wilt thou say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be grafted in? Admitted; by unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not high minded, but fear: for if God spared not the native branches, tremble lest he spare not thee. Behold therefore the kindness and severity of God: to those indeed who fell, severity; but unto thee, kindness, if thou continuest in that kindness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. But they also, if they continue not in unbelief, shall be grafted in: for God is able to graft them in again. For if thou hast been cut out of the naturally wild olive, and contrary to nature hast been grafted into the good olive: how much more shall these, which are native branches, be grafted into their own olive tree? For I would not that you should be ignorant, brethren, of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is come on Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in. And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, "The Deliverer shall go forth out of Sion, and shalt turn away ungodliness from Jacob; and this is my covenant with them, When I shall take away their sins." As concerning the gospel indeed, they are now enemies for your sakes: as concerning the election, they are beloved for the fathers' sake. For unchangeable are the gifts and the calling of God. For as ye also in times past did not believe in God, but now have obtained mercy through their unbelief: so also these now have not believed in your mercy, that they also might obtain mercy. For God hath shut up all in unbelief, that he might have mercy upon all.
But what saith the oracle of God to him? "I have left to myself seven thousand men who have not bowed the knee to Baal." So then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace. But if by grace, it is no more by works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if by works, it is no more grace: otherwise work is no more work. What then is the result? Israel hath not obtained that which it seeketh; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded, as it is written, "God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear; unto this present day." And David saith, "Let their table be for a snare, and for a trap, and for a stumbling-block, and for a recompence unto them: let their eyes be blinded, that they may not see, and bow down their back continually." I say then, Have they stumbled so as to fall? God forbid: but by their stumbling salvation is come to the Gentiles, to provoke them to jealousy. For if their stumbling is the riches of the world, and their diminution the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness? For I address myself to you Gentiles; inasmuch as I am indeed the apostle of the Gentiles, I exalt my ministry: if by any means I might provoke to jealousy my flesh, and save some of them. For if the rejection of them is the reconciliation of the world, what shall their recovery be, but life from the dead? Now if the first fruits be holy, so is the mass: and if the root be holy, so are the branches. But if some of the branches have been broken off, and thou though a wild olive hast been grafted in among them, and become a partaker of the root and fatness of the olive tree; boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee. Wilt thou say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be grafted in? Admitted; by unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not high minded, but fear: for if God spared not the native branches, tremble lest he spare not thee. Behold therefore the kindness and severity of God: to those indeed who fell, severity; but unto thee, kindness, if thou continuest in that kindness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. But they also, if they continue not in unbelief, shall be grafted in: for God is able to graft them in again. For if thou hast been cut out of the naturally wild olive, and contrary to nature hast been grafted into the good olive: how much more shall these, which are native branches, be grafted into their own olive tree? For I would not that you should be ignorant, brethren, of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is come on Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in. And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, "The Deliverer shall go forth out of Sion, and shalt turn away ungodliness from Jacob; and this is my covenant with them, When I shall take away their sins." As concerning the gospel indeed, they are now enemies for your sakes: as concerning the election, they are beloved for the fathers' sake. For unchangeable are the gifts and the calling of God. For as ye also in times past did not believe in God, but now have obtained mercy through their unbelief: so also these now have not believed in your mercy, that they also might obtain mercy. For God hath shut up all in unbelief, that he might have mercy upon all.
as Abraham believed in God, and it was imputed to him for righteousness. Know then that they who are of faith, these are the children of Abraham. And the scripture foreseeing that by faith God would justify the Gentiles, preached the gospel before unto Abraham, saying, that "In thee shall all the nations be blessed." read more.
Wherefore they who are of faith are blessed with believing Abraham. For as many as are of the works of the law, are under a curse: for it is written, "Cursed is every one who continueth not in all the things written in the book of the law to do them." But that by the law no man is justified before God is evident: because "The just by faith shall live." Now the law is not by faith: but "The man that doeth these things shall live by them." Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, "Cursed is every one who is hanged on a tree:" that unto the Gentiles the benediction pronounced on Abraham might come by Jesus Christ, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit by faith.
Wherefore they who are of faith are blessed with believing Abraham. For as many as are of the works of the law, are under a curse: for it is written, "Cursed is every one who continueth not in all the things written in the book of the law to do them." But that by the law no man is justified before God is evident: because "The just by faith shall live." Now the law is not by faith: but "The man that doeth these things shall live by them." Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, "Cursed is every one who is hanged on a tree:" that unto the Gentiles the benediction pronounced on Abraham might come by Jesus Christ, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit by faith.