Yesterday was the church’s identity. Today is personal.
For me, they are closely aligned. Too closely.
See, I generally define my self by my accomplishments. Whether through tennis, academics, or church, I am what I’ve done.
The bible calls that . . . works righteousness.
You might call it a tad bit unhealthy.
But the bible comes along with an entirely different answer. I am part of a “royal priesthood” (I Peter 2:9) not because of what I have done but because of who Jesus declares me to be. And who he declares me to be is not subject to the whims of accomplishment or the tenuousness of church momentum. I just am. By his gift.
The bible calls that . . . salvation by grace.
I’ll take it.