 |  |
words "For all have sinned" are as true after Acts 28: as before, but the calling and
sphere of blessing has changed.
This difference is clearly observed in Rom. 3: and a consideration of this will be a
fit conclusion to this study.
ROMANS 3: 1 - 9.
(1) DISPENSATIONAL ADVANTAGE
"What advantage then hath the Jew?"
"What profit is there of circumcision?"
MUCH EVERY WAY.
Remember this question and answer was written by Paul a long time after Acts 13:
(2) DOCTRINAL EQUALITY
"What then, are we better than they?"
NO, IN NO WISE.
To oppose the distinctive dispensational teaching of Ephesians by calling attention to
the similarity of basic doctrine is just muddled thinking. We have repeatedly declared
that the doctrine of the epistle to the Romans underlies the calling of Ephesians. It is the
superstructure erected since the defection of Israel that contains the revelation of things
entirely new. We need BOTH Acts 13:, the silver side of the shield to give us our
initial standing as sinners saved by grace, and the golden side of the shield, Acts 28:,
to show us the unique calling made known by the Lord's prisoner under the terms of the
dispensation of the Mystery.