The Miracle of Grace Through Jesus
But the gift is not like the trespass. For if the many died by the trespass of the one man, how much more did God’s grace and the gift that came by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, overflow to the many! Nor can the gift of God be compared with the result of one man’s sin: The judgment followed one sin and brought condemnation, but the gift followed many trespasses and brought justification. For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ!
Paul wrote and spoke at length about grace, God's favor given to those who do not deserve it. The apostle knew firsthand the freedom that Christ gives. He described himself as the worst of sinners (1 Timothy 1:15).
Once we accept Christ's death on our behalf, we are reconciled to God and the power of sin over us is broken. The Holy Spirit dwells in us, and we become spiritually alive. We are given a new family and a new purpose to live. Scripture compares our conversion experience to receiving a heart transplant (Ezekiel 36:26), changing citizenship (Philippians 3:20), and moving from darkness to the kingdom of light (Colossians 1:13).
It is the desire and will of our Heavenly Father that we should relate to Him solely on the basis of grace. (Ephesians 2:8). Just as we needed to trust in Christ's gift for salvation, we must live in dependence on Him. It is our faith, expressed through obedience, that pleases God (Hebrews 11:6).
Grace is the most powerful and transforming force. God the Father offers his unconditional love to whoever receives his Son. At salvation, our life is placed on the immovable Rock: Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 10:4), whose grace extends to us.
Suggested Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of salvation through Jesus. Thank you for giving me a new heart and for bringing my spirit to life. Thank you for the relationship I can have with you through grace, not because I am good, but because of what You have already done through Jesus. Amen.
1. Romans 5:15-17 (NIV).
Today's Encounter was written by: Rosina N.
All articles on this website are written by
Richard (Dick) Innes unless otherwise stated.