God's Lavish Wisdom Series

Introduction

Have you ever received a gift that was not only generous, but incredibly thoughtful? A gift that showed the giver knew you and had a perfect plan? In verse 7, Paul told us that we are forgiven "according to the riches of his grace." Now, in verse 8, he describes the character of that grace. He shows us that God’s grace is not a chaotic, uncontrolled force. It is a lavish, overflowing river, but one that is guided by the banks of perfect, divine intelligence.

1. The Quantity of God's Grace: A Lavish Abundance

Paul begins by describing the sheer volume and generosity of God's saving grace.

A. An Overwhelming Outpouring: "Wherein he hath abounded..."

The word "abounded" means to be superabundant, to exist in lavish excess. God does not dispense His grace sparingly. He is not frugal with His forgiveness. He has poured it out upon us in an overwhelming, extravagant flood that far exceeds our sin and need.

B. A Personally Directed Gift: "...toward us..."

This extravagant grace is not an abstract force in the universe; it has been intentionally channeled toward us. You are the personal recipient of this divine abundance. God's overflowing favor has been aimed directly at your heart.

2. The Quality of God's Grace: A Perfect Intelligence

This abundant grace is not given carelessly. It is administered with flawless, divine skill.

A. Guided by Divine Wisdom (Sophia): "...in all wisdom..."

"Wisdom" here refers to God's master plan, His ability to see the ultimate goal and design the perfect way to achieve it. The plan of salvation—where God could remain perfectly just while forgiving guilty sinners through the cross of Christ—is the ultimate and most brilliant display of God's wisdom. He devised a plan that no angel or man could have ever conceived.

B. Executed with Divine Prudence (Phronesis): "...and prudence."

"Prudence" is practical insight and skill in application. It's about flawlessly carrying out the wise plan. God executed His plan of redemption with perfect timing and precision. From the prophecies of the Old Testament to sending Jesus "in the fulness of the time" (Galatians 4:4), every step was carried out with divine prudence. God’s grace is not only a brilliant idea; it was perfectly put into action.

Conclusion

The grace that saved you is a masterpiece of God's character. It is abundant in its measure, more than enough to cover all your sin. And it is perfect in its method, designed by a wisdom that is infinite and carried out with a skill that is flawless. You can have absolute confidence in your salvation, because the God who planned it and accomplished it did so with perfect wisdom. And you can trust Him with your life today, because the same wise and prudent grace that saved your soul is now at work in all your circumstances.