True Confession of Christ
True confession of Christ is demonstrated through our works of righteousness, love, and compassion, not just by saying the words.
Clement of Rome emphasizes the importance of not just calling Jesus Lord but demonstrating faith through righteous actions. He urges believers to show love, avoid sin, and practice virtues like self-control, compassion, and generosity. Clement stresses the significance of living in harmony with others, being empathetic, and avoiding greed. He warns against hypocrisy and the consequences of not obeying God's commandments, highlighting the need to prioritize God's approval over human approval.
Text
Let us, then, not only call Him Lord, for that will not save us. For He says, Not every one that says to me, Lord, Lord, shall be saved, but he that works righteousness.
Wherefore, brethren, let us confess Him by our works, by loving one another, by not committing adultery, or speaking evil of one another, or cherishing envy; but by being continent, compassionate, and good. We ought also to sympathize with one another, and not be avaricious. By such works let us confess Him, and not by those that are of an opposite kind. And it is not fitting that we should fear men, but rather God.
For this reason, if we should do such things, the Lord has said, Even though you were gathered together to me in my very bosom, yet if you were not to keep my commandments, I would cast you off, and say unto you, Depart from me; I know you not whence you are, you workers of iniquity.
Sermon Outline
- True Confession of Christ
- Works of love and righteousness
- Avoid opposite works
- Fear God, not men
- Do not commit adultery or speak evil
- Do not cherish envy
Key Quotes
“For He says, Not every one that says to me, Lord, Lord, shall be saved, but he that works righteousness.” — Clement of Rome
“Even though you were gathered together to me in my very bosom, yet if you were not to keep my commandments, I would cast you off, and say unto you, Depart from me; I know you not whence you are, you workers of iniquity.” — Clement of Rome
Application Points
- We must strive to demonstrate our faith through our actions and works, not just by saying the words.
- We should prioritize loving one another and being good, rather than committing adultery or speaking evil.
- We should fear God, not men, and strive to please Him in our lives.