Salvation of the Soul
069: Obeying Government and Loving Mankind (Romans Series #29: Rom. 13)
Christians are biblically obligated to obey the dictates of governing authorities, unless those dictates cause us to violate God’s laws. In those situations, we must obey God rather than men. Pastor Hollandsworth points out, however, that many American Christians misapply Rom. 13, because our form of government opens the door to challenge government. Paul calls for believers to truly obey all levels of government and love everyone.
066: Metamorphosis Culminating in Glory (Romans Series #26: Rom. 12:1-2)
Paul has transitioned to the practical application section of his epistle, and he challenges believers to offer themselves as a living sacrifice to God. Pastor Hollandsworth explains how we can stay on the altar, by not being conformed to the spirit of the age and experiencing metamorphosis (inner spiritual transformation) through mind renewal. Those believers who yield themselves to this inward change now will be outwardly revealed in full glory when they meet Jesus at the Judgment Seat.
065: All Israel Will Be Saved and So Will All Mankind (Romans Series #25: Rom. 11:16-36)
To illustrate that Israel’s “time-out” is merely temporary, not permanent, Paul uses the metaphor of wild olive branches (believing Gentiles) being grafted into a cultivated olive tree (Israel), whose branches have been broken off due to disobedience (in rejecting Messiah and His offer of kingdom inheritance). But Israel will repent and be re-grafted back into her national tree. Pastor Hollandsworth points out that “all Israel will be saved,” leading to all mankind being saved, for God’s objective is to commit all mankind to disobedience so He might have mercy on all.
064: Israel’s 2,000-Year Time-Out (Romans Series #24: Rom. 11:1-15)
Because Israel rejected Christ’s offer of kingdom inheritance and put Messiah to death, the nation has been set aside for a period of 2,000 years. In the present age the Holy Spirit is saving Gentiles and calling out sons to glory – faithful saints who will be chosen to rule with Christ in His Messianic kingdom. Pastor Hollandsworth emphasizes how Israel’s failure means “riches for the Gentiles” and “the reconciling of the world,” but her restoration will signal “life from the dead” for the entire world. These are glorious truths!
059: Yearning for Israel’s Salvation (Romans Series #20: Rom. 9:1-3)
Martin Luther was heavily antisemitic, and his beliefs about Israel led to replacement theology. In contrast, Paul wishes himself to be accursed so that Israel will be saved and fulfill the prophecies. What is this “salvation,” and what does it mean to be “accursed?” Pastor Hollandsworth answers these questions, demonstrating that Israel’s salvation is critical to the salvation of all humanity.