Monday, September 14, 2009
...some preaching material...
"The gospel (good news) is a result of God's grace (Gal. 1: 6-9). Grace is presented as sufficient and Christians are called by grace (2 Cor. 12: 7-10, Gal. 1: 15). Man is saved by grace, the heart is established by grace, and we are justified by grace (Eph. 2: 5, 8, Heb. 13: 9, Tit. 3: 7). Moreover, we render acceptable service by grace and grace imparts everlasting consolation (Heb. 12: 28, 29, 2 Thes. 2: 16). God's grace also makes us better people and helps us in time of need (I Cor. 15: 9, 10, Heb. 4: 16)."
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Craig Glenn
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6 comments:
God's grace made us NEW people! (therefore if anyone is in Christ he is a new creation). These are some great truths to dwell upon!!!
Awesome Lyds....
howzit C. is the appropriation of Grace void without Faith?
Fair enough question Andrew.
It's clear in scripture that God's grace is constantly sufficient and richly abounding, yet we see people (even christians) stressed, suicidal and depressed etc...Why, God's not holding grace back?
It's not because of a lack of grace, it's like you suggest, people do not know nor do they stand on Gods good and grace-filled promises (faith).
Colosians says that our lives are "hidden in christ" (not hidden away from us, but rather for us).
Without consciously believing in the promises of God (which is His grace extended to us - rich abundance), we may still be blessed and experience God's grace and goodness, but seasonally (not by His choice, but by ours).
How much more abundant and frequent will we walk in His glory, if we live by faith (not works - that still remains the fruit of true faith), but total dependence on God's good promises.
Faith is not a work, it's a stance that acknowledges God and His ways without compromise, and it's very difficult to be free in this place if we do not renew our minds with His goodness.
Many people have excercised only enough faith to be saved (i.e. they understand the sacrifice Christ made to forgive their sins, and they genuinely receive it), but they don't understand the concept of "living by faith" and "abundant life" - a life that genuinely acknowledges God (Prov 3:6) - and this is almost impossible if we are not renewing our minds with His goodness and truth - and that's why they seem to not enjoy God's goodness.
Grace is not a "park off" experience. As Rob Rufus says, "Faith is our heavenly currency" (obviously this must be understood in context!)
i know what you're saying, your "concerned" you don't see the word "faith" in the post....Faith is a given...Paul didn't preach the gospel of Faith he preached the gospel of grace.....Anyway pertaining to your question...i think it depends who you're talking about...if the person is unsaved, no...if the person is saved, well then...."even when we are faithless God is faithful"...
Yes faith is a must (without faith its impossible to please God) i must believe then see...but still, what increases my faith? KNOWING the gospel of grace...Romans 1:17 says the Gospel is THE power of God unto salvation for all who believe...the gospel is THE power...when we know and understand the gospel (of his grace) we WILL walk in faith...because power is produced through faith...Gal 3:9 says the law is NOT based on faith....break law thinking off people increases their faith, increases their power, increases their victory..and on...and on..and on...
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