May 24
5
Contrary Not Complicated
The gospel does not remain a mystery to the natural man because it is complicated. The gospel remains a mystery because it is contrary to everything he believes to be true. It is contrary to his view of God. He will honour God with his lips but believe in his heart in a god that is not God. All men by nature set themselves up on the throne of God. They make God dependent upon their will or works to save them. The gospel is contrary to what the natural man believes about himself. He does not believe himself to be dead in his trespasses and sins. He believes that he holds the power of salvation in what he decides. Until the Lord gives the spirit of repentance (changed mind), the simple, clear gospel of God’s free grace in the glorious person and accomplished work of Christ will remain a mystery.
Pastor Greg Elmquist