Title: Amazing Grace: Receiving and Reflecting God’s Unmerited Favor
Text: Ephesians 2:8-9 (NIV) - "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast."
I. Introduction
Hook: Share a personal story or illustration about receiving something you didn’t deserve (e.g., forgiveness, a gift, or a second chance).
Definition of Grace: Grace is God’s unmerited favor—His love, mercy, and kindness given to us freely, even though we don’t deserve it.
Thesis: Today, we will explore the depth of God’s grace, how it transforms our lives, and how we can respond to it.
II. The Nature of God’s Grace
1. Grace is Unearned (Ephesians 2:8-9)
- Salvation is a gift, not a reward for good works.
- We cannot boast because it is entirely God’s work.
2. Grace is Abundant (Romans 5:20)
- Where sin increased, grace increased all the more.
- God’s grace is greater than our failures.
3. Grace is Sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:9)
- God’s grace is enough to sustain us in weakness.
- His power is made perfect in our weakness.
III. The Manifestation of God’s Grace
1. Grace in Salvation (Titus 3:4-7)
- God saved us not because of our righteousness but because of His mercy.
- Through grace, we are justified and made heirs of eternal life.
2. Grace in Daily Life (Hebrews 4:16)
- We can approach God’s throne of grace with confidence to find mercy and help in time of need.
- Grace empowers us to live for Christ daily.
3. Grace in Relationships (Ephesians 4:32)
- We are called to extend grace to others as God has extended it to us.
- Forgiveness and kindness are expressions of God’s grace through us.
IV. Responding to God’s Grace
1. Receive It Humbly (James 4:6)
- God gives grace to the humble.
- Acknowledge your need for His grace and surrender your pride.
2. Live Gratefully (Colossians 3:15-17)
- Let gratitude for God’s grace overflow in worship and obedience.
- Reflect His grace in your words and actions.
3. Share It Freely (Matthew 10:8)
- Just as you have received grace, give it to others.
- Be a vessel of God’s love and mercy in a broken world.
V. Conclusion
Recap: God’s grace is unearned, abundant, and sufficient. It saves us, sustains us, and empowers us to live for Him.
Call to Action:
- If you’ve never received God’s grace, today is the day to accept His gift of salvation.
- If you’ve experienced His grace, commit to living a life of gratitude and sharing His grace with others.
Closing Prayer: Thank God for His amazing grace and ask for His help to live in light of it.
Optional Benediction:
"May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all." (2 Corinthians 13:14)