Beech Tree News Network

There is much confusion on the subject of God’s grace. Part of the reason for the confusion is because folks teach things the Bible doesn’t about grace. For example, some try to say that we are saved by grace alone, which is not true. Other religious folks seem to hold to an opposite extreme, implying that one can “earn” salvation, thus leaving little room for grace in our lives. In Bible days, folks were reminded that God’s grace is needed in our lives. In writing to the Ephesians, the apostle Paul said, “by grace are you saved…” (Eph. 2:5, 8). To the Romans, Paul had to remind some that God’s grace was not a “license” to sin (Rom. 6:1). Thankfully, as we study God’s word and let it speak to us, we learn what God’s grace is and what it is not.

            God’s grace was seen in Noah’s day (Gen. 6:8). God’s grace allowed Noah to know of His plans for the destruction of the earth by water. God also declared how Noah and his family could be spared from the Flood (Gen. 6:14-33). Had it not been for the favor and love of God, no one would have survived the Flood waters!

            God’s grace is seen with those who lived through the wilderness wanderings (Jer. 31:2). Truly, God’s grace has been with man throughout history to the days of Christ. Our Lord Jesus himself is “full of grace and truth” (Jn. 1:14, 17).

            Further study of the New Testament will reveal the same thing, namely, that God’s grace is apparent anytime we speak of man’s salvation. Does this mean, then, that it is God’s grace alone which saves us? Absolutely not! There is not one passage in the Bible that ever says or implies that one thing “alone” saves anyone. In fact, when we study the passages relating to Noah, the Israelites, the teachings of Christ, etc., we will see that in every case, one must respond to God’s grace in faith and obedience. Once one comes to God on His terms, one is said to be saved through God’s grace!

            The Bible says, “Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord” (Gen. 6:8). Yet, Noah was not saved by grace alone, for God told Noah what to do to prepare for the Flood, and God expected it to be done (Gen. 6:14-33). Noah obeyed, and God inspired the Hebrew writer to write, “By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household. By this, he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes by faith” (Heb. 11:7). This passage combines Noah’s faith and obedience with the grace that God showed! In the wilderness, God shed His grace upon His people as they continued to follow Him and go where He led them (Ex. 40:36-38). It was not one thing “alone” which saved them. The same is true with Christ today. God’s grace is abundantly provided (Titus 2:11). Yet, we cannot expect salvation until we believe His word and obey it (Heb. 5:9, 11:6)!

            God’s grace is a beautiful and wonderful gift. Let us appreciate it and thank God for it. Let us not ignore it, but respond to the Lord in loving faith and obedience while we can.

-- You are invited to visit with the Caneyville church of Christ. Times of services: Sun.: 10:00 am, 10:45 am, 5:00 pm; Wed.: 7:00 pm. Website: http://caneyvillechurchofchrist.com Tune in to our radio program 101.5 FM at 5:30 am, Mon-Fri. Questions? Call: (270) 589-4167