Saved by Grace
An exploration of salvation through grace, emphasizing the role of faith, repentance, water baptism in Jesus' name, and receiving the Holy Spirit.
1. Understanding Grace
1.1 Grace Defined
Verses: Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 3:24
- Grace is unmerited favor, a gift from God.
- Salvation is not earned through works, but freely given.
- Grace empowers us to live righteously.
1.2 The Source of Grace: God's Love
Verses: John 3:16; Romans 5:8
- God's love is the motivation behind His grace.
- He demonstrated His love by sending His Son, Jesus.
- This love is extended to all humanity.
2. The Process of Receiving Grace
2.1 Faith as the Foundation
Verses: Hebrews 11:1; Romans 10:17
- Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
- Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
- Faith is essential to receiving God's grace.
2.2 Repentance: Turning Away from Sin
Verses: Acts 3:19; 2 Corinthians 7:10
- Repentance involves a change of mind and heart.
- It leads to a turning away from sin and toward God.
- Repentance is a necessary step in receiving forgiveness.
2.3 Water Baptism in Jesus' Name
Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 10:48
- Baptism is an act of obedience and identification with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection.
- Baptism is to be administered by immersion in water.
- Baptism is to be performed in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.
3. The Gift of the Holy Spirit
3.1 The Promise of the Holy Spirit
Verses: Acts 2:38-39; John 14:26
- The Holy Spirit is the promise of the Father.
- He empowers believers for service and witness.
- The Holy Spirit guides us into all truth.
3.2 Speaking in Tongues: Initial Evidence
Verses: Acts 2:4; Acts 10:46
- Speaking in tongues is the initial physical evidence of receiving the Holy Spirit.
- It is a supernatural utterance given by the Spirit.
- It is a sign and a wonder to believers and unbelievers.
4. Grace in Action
4.1 Living a Life of Obedience
Verses: John 14:15; 1 John 2:6
- Love for God is demonstrated through obedience to His commandments.
- Walking as Jesus walked is a lifelong pursuit.
- Obedience is not to earn salvation, but to show our love and gratitude.
4.2 Growing in Grace
Verses: 2 Peter 3:18; Ephesians 4:15
- We are to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
- This involves continual learning, prayer, and fellowship.
- As we grow, we become more like Christ.