Sola gratia. Grace alone.
Centuries ago, Martin Luther and the Reformation addressed issues throughout the Catholic church, attempting to center believers upon Christ as a substitute of an establishment. Among the doctrines they espoused, they taught Christians were saved by grace alone. The reformers pointed to the next verse, amongst others:
“For it’s by grace you’ve gotten been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it’s a present of God—not by works, in order that nobody can boast.” – Ephesians 2:8-9
People often confuse mercy and style. Both encompass unmerited favor. However, mercy is God’s favor in not giving us the punishment we deserve. Grace is God’s favor in giving us the ability to live with him. Both are gifts, neither deserved.
The next sentence in Ephesians, verse 2:10, further explains this: “For we’re God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared upfront for us to do.” Our works didn’t save us. God’s work did. The gift of grace leads to our doing good works initiated by God. In order to walk with him, we require mercy (forgiveness of sin, removal of punishment) and style (the ability to do the works God has prepared for us).
How can we access this grace? Here are 7 ways to unlock the ability of saving grace.
Photo Credit: 7 Ways to Unlock the Power of Saving Grace
