“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9)
The amazing thing about the grace of God is that no one deserves it, yet He offers it. Since Adam and Eve first sinned in the garden, every human has been born with a sinful nature. Every single human has sinned, and deserves death as punishment. Not just physical death, but spiritual death, separated from the Spirit of God for eternity.
“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;” (Romans 3:23)
What Is Grace?
The gift of grace is the undeserved invitation to have faith in Jesus Christ, and the opportunity to be obedient to His gospel unto salvation. Without God’s grace, there is no way to experience salvation.
“Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.” (Romans 5:1-2)
What Grace Is Not
Grace is not a license to continue in sinful lifestyles. God doesn’t offer grace, and turn away from our sin. He looks at us with eyes wide open, acknowledging our sin, but with a heart of compassion that offers us a path to repent, and obey the gospel.
“What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?” (Romans 6:1-2)
Obedience Is Required
Many people think of grace as an invisible blanket that cloaks their sins, with no obligation to make any changes. This couldn’t be further from the truth. When we claim God’s grace, we are required to follow through with obedience. This includes repentance of our sins, turning away from future sinful choices, being baptized in Jesus’ name for the remission of sins, and allowing God to fill us with His Holy Spirit, evidenced by speaking in other tongues, and living a life of holiness.
“Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 2:37-38)
“But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?” (Romans 10:16)
What Are Works?
Many people think nothing is required on their part to be saved. It’s true that we are not saved by our works. Repentance, submitting to baptism and seeking to be filled with God’s Spirit are not works. They are obedience.
Christians are called to good works, even though they aren’t the source of their salvation. We are called to live as emissaries of His goodness in the earth. Volunteering, community service, and being a help whenever we can is a needful part of our new life in Christ.
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.“ (Ephesians 2:10)
In Summary
-All have sinned, and deserve death.
-God, in His mercy offers us grace.
-Grace is an undeserved opportunity to have faith in, and obey the gospel.
-Obedience to the gospel is not works.
-Repentance, baptism in Jesus name, and being filled with the Holy Ghost is required for salvation.
Warm Regards In Jesus Name!
-Pat