100% LOVED BY GOD 3
In the first chapter of John, specifically verses 16 and 17, it is stated that we have received grace upon grace from the fullness of Christ, contrasting the law given through Moses with the grace and truth that came through Jesus Christ. Furthermore, verses 3 and 4 elaborate on the divine power bestowed upon us, granting everything necessary for life and godliness through the knowledge of Him who has called us by His glory and virtue. This divine power has also provided us with exceedingly great and precious promises, enabling us to partake in the divine nature and escape the corruption present in the world due to lust. This notion of possessing the divine nature within us is crucial, especially for those who may not have been familiar with this teaching.
Reflecting on the conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus in John chapter 3, we see Nicodemus acknowledging the extraordinary works of Jesus, recognizing that no one could perform such miracles without divine support. He was intrigued by the difference in Jesus, who was not a traditional synagogue figure yet drew crowds. Jesus redirected Nicodemus’s focus from His miraculous deeds to the essence of His being, emphasizing that one’s nature fundamentally influences their actions and potential. He explained that to truly understand His capabilities, Nicodemus must consider the source of His nature, stating that unless one is born again or born of the Spirit, they cannot replicate the works He performs. This dialogue underscores the importance of spiritual rebirth, distinguishing between the flesh and the spirit, and highlights the transformative power of embracing one’s divine nature.
It is important to recognize the profound statement that one must undergo a transformation, akin to being born anew, in order to engage in the divine works that I perform. This message, directed towards Nicodemus, emphasizes the distinction between the divine nature that I embody and the purely human nature that he possesses. The limitations inherent in human nature prevent a genuine interaction with the supernatural realm. Therefore, when I perform miracles, it is a manifestation of my access to a divine source that remains beyond the reach of human capability. This access is granted through the experience of spiritual rebirth, which aligns one with the divine nature that I possess.
To further elaborate on this concept, we can refer to 2 Peter chapter 1, particularly as rendered in the Contemporary English Translation. This passage asserts that we have been endowed with all that is necessary to lead a life that is pleasing to God, a gift bestowed upon us through His divine power. This invitation to partake in His magnificent goodness comes with great and precious promises, allowing us to escape the corrupting influences of the world. While God’s love for us is unconditional, our ability to please Him is contingent upon our actions.
It is essential to understand that the power to please God is derived from His grace rather than our own efforts.
Thus, everything required to fulfill this divine expectation has been made available to us through grace, reinforcing the notion that we are never alone in this journey, as we are enveloped in God’s unwavering love.
In the context of relying on divine grace, one can find guidance in Romans chapter 6, particularly from verses 12 to 14. This passage emphasizes the importance of not allowing sin to dominate one’s mortal existence, urging individuals to resist its temptations. Instead of yielding to sinful desires, believers are encouraged to present themselves to God as those who have been resurrected from death, dedicating their actions as instruments of righteousness. The text further asserts that sin shall not exert authority over them, as they are no longer bound by the law but are instead under grace. This distinction highlights the transformative power of grace in the believer’s life, contrasting it with the constraints of the law.
The rationale behind the establishment of the law by God can be understood through two primary reasons. Firstly, the Israelites had recently emerged from a state of slavery, which had instilled in them a mindset devoid of personal responsibility. To facilitate their transition to freedom, God provided the law as a means of reprogramming their understanding of right and wrong. The detailed regulations found in texts like Leviticus may seem overly meticulous, akin to instructing children in basic hygiene, reflecting the need for a comprehensive framework to guide a people who had been conditioned to follow orders without question. Secondly, the law served to instill a profound awareness of humanity’s dependence on God for righteousness. The struggle of the Jewish people with the Ten Commandments illustrates this point, as they grappled with their shortcomings. To maintain a relationship with God amidst their failings, a system of atonement was instituted, requiring the annual offering of blood sacrifices to cover their sins, thereby allowing them to approach God despite their inability to overcome sin on their own.
The practice of offering sacrifices, such as the blood of bulls, served as a means to atone for sins, allowing individuals to approach God. This system was effective until the arrival of Christ, which marked a significant transformation in the spiritual paradigm. With Christ’s coming, the previous framework of the law was rendered obsolete, ushering in a new era where believers are called to please God not merely through adherence to the law, but by embracing His grace. This grace empowers individuals to activate their new nature in Christ. I previously posed a thought-provoking question regarding behavior in the absence of law, using the example of Germany’s Autobahn, where speed limits do not exist. In such scenarios, one’s actions are dictated by their inherent nature rather than external regulations. God emphasizes the importance of understanding one’s identity over strict legalism, as grace and truth were fully realized through Jesus.
In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul articulates this shift in understanding in 1 Corinthians 15:56-57, where he states that sin, which leads to death, derives its strength from the law. By referring to the law as the “strength of sin,” Paul highlights how legalism can exacerbate sinful behavior. However, he also expresses gratitude to God for the victory granted through Jesus Christ, who embodies grace and truth. This grace is not a trivial concept; it is a profound and essential aspect of the believer’s life, enabling them to live in a manner that is pleasing to God. Grace transcends mere salvation; it is a powerful force that equips believers to navigate their spiritual journey with confidence and purpose.
The essence of our salvation is encapsulated in Ephesians 2:8, which states that we are saved by grace through faith, a gift from God rather than a result of our own efforts. This profound truth emphasizes that if our salvation is initiated by grace, it is also sustained by grace. It is essential to acknowledge this divine favor in our lives, prompting us to recognize its significance. The Greek term for grace, “Karis,” conveys the idea of divine influence upon the heart, which subsequently manifests in our actions and behaviors. This understanding of grace transcends its common usage in contemporary language, where it is often associated with mundane concepts such as grace periods or musical grace notes.
Grace represents a powerful force that enables us to lead lives that are pleasing to God, reflecting the transformative influence it has on our hearts.
Saint Augustine articulated the nature of grace by asserting that it is bestowed not as a reward for good deeds, but rather to empower us to perform such deeds. This perspective reinforces the notion that grace is not something we can earn; it is a free gift that flows from Jesus Christ, as highlighted in John 1:16-17, which contrasts the law given through Moses with the grace and truth that come through Christ. Through these insights, I have come to understand that grace is an unmerited favor that empowers us to live righteously, and it is through this divine influence that we can truly reflect the love and character of God in our lives.
Grace is fundamentally accessed through faith, necessitating a deep trust in God to allow His grace to manifest in my life. This grace represents a divine influence that touches the heart and subsequently transforms one’s existence. It is essential for me to receive this grace through faith, as it is the channel through which God’s favor flows. I invite you to reflect on this concept with me this morning, as it is crucial to understand the role of faith in experiencing the fullness of grace in our lives.
Furthermore, I have come to recognize that grace serves as a powerful enabler, allowing me to refrain from lamenting over my current limitations. Instead, I place my trust in God, believing that His grace will empower me to overcome these challenges in the future. Grace is not merely a passive gift; it is an active force that facilitates transformation. If one desires to break free from negative behaviors or to cultivate a more pleasing relationship with God, engaging with the power of grace is essential. The example of Jesus’ baptism illustrates this beautifully; as He emerged from the water, the heavens opened, and God proclaimed His pleasure in Him. This divine approval is intrinsically linked to the ability to receive grace, which in turn activates the divine nature within us, enabling us to embody love and forgiveness, as described in 1 Corinthians Chapter 13.
He stated that our iniquities will be remembered no more, as far as the east is from the west, indicating that our transgressions have been removed from us. This profound act of grace not only reflects divine forgiveness but also empowers individuals to extend that same grace to others, allowing them to release the burdens of transgressions as far as the east is from the west. It is essential to recognize that grace is a transformative force, enabling one to embody this capacity for forgiveness and reconciliation. The question remains whether one is willing to embrace this divine empowerment, as grace seeks to facilitate the ability to forgive and heal.
Furthermore, it is crucial to bring forth personal struggles in prayer to God, seeking grace to overcome specific challenges. Rather than rationalizing these difficulties, one should earnestly pray about them, acknowledging the need for divine assistance. For instance, if one finds themselves tempted to take what does not belong to them, it is vital to approach God for help, just as Jesus did in the Garden of Gethsemane, where He expressed His desire to avoid suffering yet ultimately submitted to the will of the Father. This example illustrates that sometimes, one may feel compelled to apologize or take responsibility for peace, even when they are not at fault. The biblical principle that Christ died for the ungodly serves as a reminder that grace can manifest in our lives when we intentionally seek it in our struggles. Lastly, surrounding oneself with the right company and associations is essential, as grace is often influenced by the relationships we cultivate.
Proverbs 13:20 articulates a profound truth: those who associate with the wise will themselves become wise, while those who choose to befriend fools are destined for destruction. The scripture further emphasizes that corrupt communication can lead to moral decay. It is incongruous to seek the blessings of grace while spending time with individuals who mock and scorn the principles of God, often under the guise of entertainment. Engaging in such activities late into the night can lead to spiritual depletion, as the influence of divine grace diminishes. The Bible clearly states that a blessed individual refrains from following the counsel of the ungodly or sitting among those who ridicule faith.
Those who belittle God often trivialize sin, making it appear harmless, and in doing so, they drain the spiritual vitality from those who engage with them.
It is crucial to be vigilant regarding the company one keeps, as associations can significantly impact one’s spiritual well-being. When surrounded by individuals who embody godly virtues, one is likely to experience an influx of grace that nurtures and uplifts the spirit. Conversely, being in the presence of those who embody negative traits can empower one’s fleshly desires, leading to a struggle against sin. The environment we choose to immerse ourselves in can either activate our divine nature or reinforce our weaknesses. Therefore, it is imperative to select companions wisely, as the right associations can foster an atmosphere conducive to spiritual growth and the enjoyment of grace that reflects divine characteristics.