InstaStudy

Saved by Grace: A Journey of Faith and Obedience

This study explores the profound truth of salvation as a gift of God's grace, emphasizing how our obedient response is an integral part of receiving and living out this divine favor. We will examine the foundational steps of salvation and the ongoing walk of faith that demonstrates our love for God.

1. The Singular God and His Abundant Grace

1.1 The One True God

Verses: Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 43:10-11; John 14:9
  • There is only one God, the Creator of all.
  • Jesus is the manifestation of this one God in flesh.
  • All power and authority reside in Him alone.

1.2 Grace as God's Unmerited Favor

Verses: Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 2:11; Romans 3:23-24
  • Salvation is a gift from God, not earned by human effort.
  • Grace makes salvation possible for all humanity.
  • It is the foundation of our relationship with God.

2. God's Divine Plan for Salvation

2.1 Repentance: Turning from Sin

Verses: Acts 2:38; Luke 13:3; Acts 17:30
  • Repentance is a change of mind and heart, leading to a change in direction.
  • It involves acknowledging sin and turning towards God.
  • This is the initial step in responding to God's grace.

2.2 Water Baptism in Jesus' Name

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 8:16; Acts 19:5; Colossians 2:12
  • Baptism is an essential act of obedience, identifying with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection.
  • It is to be administered by immersion in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.
  • This act formally brings us into the new covenant.

2.3 Receiving the Gift of the Holy Spirit

Verses: Acts 2:38-39; Acts 10:44-46; Acts 19:6; John 3:5
  • The Holy Spirit is the indwelling presence of God, empowering believers.
  • It is a promise for all who believe and obey.
  • The initial evidence of receiving the Spirit is speaking in other tongues.

3. Obedience as a Response to Grace

3.1 Faith and Obedience are Inseparable

Verses: James 2:17-20; Hebrews 11:6; Romans 1:5
  • True faith is demonstrated through obedience to God's commands.
  • Obedience is not earning salvation, but living out the salvation received by grace.
  • It is a natural outflow of a heart transformed by God.

3.2 The Commands of Christ

Verses: John 14:15; Matthew 28:19-20; 1 John 2:3-4
  • Jesus' teachings and commands are central to the believer's life.
  • Obeying His commands shows our love for Him.
  • Discipleship involves learning and doing all that He commanded.

3.3 Obedience as a Path to Sanctification

Verses: 1 Peter 1:15-16; Romans 6:16-18; Hebrews 12:14
  • Obedience leads to a life of holiness and separation from sin.
  • It is a continuous process of growing in Christ-likeness.
  • God's grace empowers us to live obedient and holy lives.

4. Living a Life Transformed by Grace and Obedience

4.1 Walking in the Spirit

Verses: Galatians 5:16; Romans 8:13-14; Ephesians 5:18
  • The Holy Spirit guides and empowers us to overcome the flesh.
  • Living by the Spirit produces spiritual fruit.
  • This walk is a daily commitment to God's will.

4.2 Enduring to the End

Verses: Matthew 10:22; Hebrews 3:6; Revelation 2:10
  • Salvation requires perseverance and faithfulness throughout life.
  • We must remain steadfast in our faith and obedience.
  • God provides the strength to endure trials and temptations.

4.3 The Blessed Hope

Verses: Titus 2:13; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; Revelation 21:3-4
  • Our ultimate hope is the return of Jesus and eternal life with Him.
  • This hope motivates us to live righteously.
  • God's grace will bring us to final salvation.