The Root of the Problem: Chapter 4 – Ignorance (Excerpt)

We have heard the phrase: ignorance is bliss. The idea presumes that we are often better off not knowing about problems that might come upon us. If one is ignorant, he does not have to spend his time worrying about the problem. He does not have to work to fix or prevent it either. When it comes to violating the law (either the law of God or of man), ignorance is appealing because it prohibits guilt and does not require any act of repentance or restitution.

When it comes to God’s word, the “ignorance is bliss” idea is completely false. Notice the words of God through the prophet Hosea:

“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you from being My priest. Since you have forgotten the law of God, I also will forget your children” (Hosea 4:6). (p. 17-18)

You can read more about the dangers of ignorance and how to overcome it in The Root of the Problem: Why We Sin & How We Can Overcome. Follow the link to learn more about the book and purchase your copy today!

The Root of the Problem: Chapter 3 – Failing to See Sin for What It Is (Excerpt)

The consequences and punishment for sin are too great for God to simply allow us to suffer this fate without any hope of escape. As horrible as Jesus’ death on the cross was, we stand to face something far worse than crucifixion – an eternal separation from God in a place filled with agony and pain. This is what we are due for our sin.

Sin is not to be taken lightly. God knows how terrible the wages of sin are, so He was willing to watch His only begotten Son suffer. Jesus clearly understood the severity of sin in that He was willing to lay down His life for us. We must recognize what sin is and remove it from our lives. (p. 14-15)

You can read more about the consequences and punishment for sin in The Root of the Problem: Why We Sin & How We Can Overcome. Follow the link to learn more about the book and purchase your copy today!

The Root of the Problem: Chapter 2 – “We’re Only Human” (Excerpt)

Man has repeatedly shown a preference to sin – some on occasion, some perpetually. But everyone has done it. When considering this fact, many get discouraged, thinking that there must be no way to overcome sin. “We’re only human” is the excuse that is given (as if this somehow justifies one’s actions).

One of the fundamental tenets of Calvinism is the inherent sinfulness of man. Calvin’s doctrine of total depravity is the belief that we are born in such a state that we are totally corrupt, inclined toward sin, and unable to do what is right on our own. The doctrine states that one cannot even come to God without a direct operation of the Holy Spirit upon his heart.

Yet the Bible teaches something very different than Calvin. “God made men upright, but they have sought out many devices” (Ecclesiastes 7:29). When we sin, it is because we choose to sin. It is not because we are unable to help ourselves since God failed to do something that would keep us from sinning. Calvin’s doctrine takes the blame for sin away from the one who commits it and places it upon God for not regenerating the sinner.

It is true that we are human. But this is not an excuse for sin. Granted, as long as we live, we will have the potential to sin. But that does not excuse or justify it. We still must make the choice: to do good or do evil. (p. 6-7)

You can read more about the pursuit of perfection in The Root of the Problem: Why We Sin & How We Can Overcome. Follow the link to learn more about the book and purchase your copy today!

The Root of the Problem: Chapter 1 – The Problem of Sin (Excerpt)

… Jesus’ work in dealing with sin was not limited simply to His providing forgiveness. Forgiveness is certainly important – it is essential, in fact, for the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23). When we are forgiven, then through the grace of God we no longer stand to face the penalty for the sins we have committed. Those transgressions will not be remembered against us anymore. Thanks be to God for this fact!

But there is something else that Jesus provides for us in His death. It carries with it a charge that we have been given. Besides forgiveness of sins, Jesus also gives us freedom from sin.

Many do not understand this gift of freedom that Jesus has given. They desire forgiveness, but they also want to continue in their sin. They want the benefits of God’s grace without the responsibility of service to Christ… (p. 2)

You can read more about our freedom from the bondage of sin and our responsibility to remove sin from our lives in The Root of the Problem: Why We Sin & How We Can Overcome. Follow the link to learn more about the book and purchase your copy today!

“The Root of the Problem” – Official Release

The Root of the Problem (book cover)The first title from Gospel Armory is being officially released today – The Root of the Problem: Why We Sin & How We Can Overcome. Most of the ones who pre-ordered this book have already received their copy. If you ordered already and haven’t received it yet, your copy is on its way and you can expect to see it any day. After you have a chance to read it, we would welcome any comments you have about the book.

If you haven’t ordered your copy yet, click on the link above where you can read more about this book and place your order. This would also make a good gift. So pick up a copy for yourself, and while you’re at it, get a couple extra copies to give to others.

Thanks!