The God of all grace
William MacDonald teaches that God's grace is an unmerited favor revealed supremely in Christ, calling believers to both worship and embody that grace in their lives.
In this sermon, William MacDonald explores the profound nature of God's grace as an unearned gift extended to sinners through Jesus Christ. He highlights key biblical passages that reveal grace's power to justify and enrich believers. MacDonald encourages listeners to respond with heartfelt worship and to embody grace in their daily interactions, reflecting God's character to the world.
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“The God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus…” (1 Pet. 5:10)
The grace of God is His favor and acceptance to those who do not deserve it; who, in fact, deserve the very opposite; but who trust Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
Four of the better known verses on grace are these! “The law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ” (John 1:17). “Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus” (Rom. 3:24). “For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich” (2 Cor. 8:9). “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast” (Eph. 2:8, 9).
Some extol God’s grace as the chief of all His virtues. Samuel Davies, for instance, wrote:
Great God of wonders! all Thy ways
Display Thine attributes divine;
But the bright glories of Thy grace
Above Thine other wonders shine:
Who is a pard’ning God like Thee?
Or who has grace so rich and free?
But who can say that one of God’s attributes is greater than another?
God has always been a God of grace-in the Old Testament as well as in the New. But that aspect of His character was revealed in a new and arresting way with the coming of Christ.
Once we come to understand something of the grace of God, we become worshipers forever. We ask ourselves, “Why should He have chosen me? Why should the Lord Jesus have shed His life’s blood for one so unworthy? Why should God not only save me from hell, but bless me with all spiritual blessings in the heavenlies now, and destine me to spend eternity with Him in heaven?” No wonder we sing of the amazing grace that saved such wretches!
Then, too, God wants His grace to be reproduced in our own lives and to flow through us to others. He wants us to be gracious in our dealings with others. Our speech should be always with grace, seasoned with salt (Col. 4:6). We should impoverish ourselves that others might be enriched (2 Cor. 8:9). We should grant favor and acceptance to the unworthy and the unlovely.
Sermon Outline
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I. The Nature of God's Grace
- Grace is unmerited favor to the undeserving
- It is revealed supremely in Jesus Christ
- Grace is present in both Old and New Testaments
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II. Biblical Foundations of Grace
- John 1:17 contrasts law and grace
- Romans 3:24 speaks of justification by grace
- Ephesians 2:8-9 emphasizes grace as a gift
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III. The Response to Grace
- Worship and gratitude for God's amazing grace
- Self-examination on unworthiness and God's choice
- Desire to live a life reflecting grace
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IV. Grace in Christian Living
- Speak with grace, seasoned with salt
- Impoverish ourselves to enrich others
- Extend favor and acceptance to the unlovely
Key Quotes
“The grace of God is His favor and acceptance to those who do not deserve it; who, in fact, deserve the very opposite; but who trust Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.” — William MacDonald
“Once we come to understand something of the grace of God, we become worshipers forever.” — William MacDonald
“God wants His grace to be reproduced in our own lives and to flow through us to others.” — William MacDonald
Application Points
- Recognize and worship God for His unmerited grace in your life.
- Speak and act with grace toward others, reflecting God's character.
- Generously give of yourself to enrich those in need, following Christ's example.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the meaning of God's grace?
God's grace is His unmerited favor and acceptance toward sinners who deserve judgment but receive salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.
How is grace revealed in the Bible?
Grace is revealed throughout Scripture but is most clearly shown in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who offers salvation freely to all.
Why should believers respond to grace with worship?
Because God's grace is undeserved and rich, it inspires awe and gratitude, leading believers to worship and praise Him continually.
How can Christians live out God's grace daily?
By speaking graciously, being generous to others, and extending favor and acceptance even to those who seem unworthy.
Is grace only a New Testament concept?
No, grace is present in the Old Testament but was revealed more fully and arrestingly through Christ in the New Testament.