Grace and Faith
Grace and Faith4
Know God
By Chuck Smith0MRK 12:29Chuck Smith emphasizes the importance of knowing the true and living God, highlighting that the first commandment is to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. He explains the concept of God's oneness as a compound unity, which is foundational to understanding His nature. Smith contrasts Christianity with other religions, asserting that Christianity is God's attempt to reach man through grace, rather than man's efforts to reach God. He encourages believers to recognize the Bible as God's revelation, supported by its prophetic nature, which confirms its divine origin. Ultimately, knowing God is presented as the most crucial aspect of faith.
Justification: Of Grace by Faith
By G.W. North0ROM 10:17EPH 2:8G.W. North emphasizes that justification comes solely through grace by faith, asserting that faith cannot exist without the preaching of God's word. He explains that true faith requires a heartfelt confession of Jesus Christ, as mere repetition of words lacks the saving power. North highlights that humanity's spiritual deadness and moral corruption mean that salvation is entirely a work of God's grace, with no contribution from man. He underscores that eternal life is a gift from God, made possible through the Holy Spirit's ministry, which is essential for experiencing this life. Ultimately, North illustrates that God's nature is love, and His grace is freely given to all who believe.
The Christian Life Is Impossible
By Major Ian Thomas0COL 2:6Major Ian Thomas emphasizes that living the Christian life is impossible without reliance on Christ. He explains that our attempts to live righteously through self-effort lead to frustration and failure, as true growth comes only through grace and faith. God desires us to recognize our struggles and surrender our self-sufficiency, allowing Christ to work through us for victory over sin. The essence of the Christian life is not about our abilities but about Christ living in and through us. Ultimately, the Christian life can only be understood in the context of Jesus Christ's power and presence.
Luke 6
By John Nelson Darby0MAT 11:28LUK 6:5HEB 4:9John Nelson Darby discusses the significance of the Sabbath in relation to Jesus' authority and the transition from Jewish law to grace. He emphasizes that Jesus, as the Lord of the Sabbath, has the right to redefine its meaning, highlighting that true rest is found in Him rather than in legalistic observance. The sermon illustrates how Jesus' actions and teachings reveal God's grace, particularly towards the Gentiles, and how faith, humility, and love are central to the new covenant. Darby also contrasts the blessings of those who follow Christ with the fate of those who reject Him, underscoring the importance of recognizing Jesus' divine authority and grace.