Scripture Reading: Romans 15:1–6

Introduction

A. The phrase “it is written” appears more than 200 times in the New Testament, but why would God point back so often to a covenant He was in the act of replacing (Hebrews 8:13)?

B. Even though the laws contained in the Old Testament are no longer in effect, there is still great benefit in studying it.

Discussion

I. We learn that God never changes (Malachi 3:6–7).

A. We learn that God has always loved His children (Deuteronomy 7:7–8; Hosea 3:1; Ezekiel 33:11; Proverbs 3:11–12).

B. We learn that God always keeps His word (Romans 4:17; Leviticus 26:42–45; 1 Peter 1:24–25).

C. We learn that God always holds man accountable for his actions (2 Samuel 7:14–15; Jeremiah 5:9; 7:14–15).

D. We learn that God will never lead us astray (Psalms 23; Ezekiel 20:13; Jeremiah 5:31; cf. 23:1–2; 34:1–10).

II. We learn that man never changes much either.

A. It took man very little time to forget God (Genesis 6:5).

B. Man has seldom remained faithful to God for very long (Exodus 14:11; 15:24; 16:3; Judges 2:18–19).

C. Though it is a rare event, we learn that it is at least possible for man to change (Ezekiel 18:30–32).

Conclusion

A. Although God never changes, He will help us to change.

B. The choice, however, is yours and mine alone.