Good morning,
“In the beginning God…” (Genesis 1:1) The fourth word in the Bible must be understood or the rest of the Bible will make no sense.
Last week we looked at the foundational truths of God. He is omniscient, omnipresent, omnipotent, and sovereign.
This week we will look at God’s attributes. Holy, love, mercy, grace, peace, and longsuffering.
Next week, knowing these truths, we will be challenged to take God’s word to our friends, neighbors, and enemies. We will learn what it means to fulfill the Great Commission of Matthew 28.
The Attributes of God
Grace
“But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.” (1 Corinthians 15:10)
“But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many.” (Romans 5:15)
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:” (Ephesians 2:8)
“But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they.” (Acts 15:11)
Grace, God’s unmerited favor. We have no standing before God except by His grace. We are saved by grace through faith in the death, burial, and resurrection, of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Paul said, “But by the grace of God I am what I am:”
Can we say that about ourselves? Many believers do not trust God for their growth in Christ. They choose to do it themselves. No need to have the all-knowing, ever present, all powerful, and supreme ruler, on their side. The results are usually pathetic.
On the other hand, believers who trust Christ for their spiritual growth do grow and mature. They are usable in the work and ministry for Christ.
Which kind of Christian are we?
Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001