INTRODUCTION
Outline.
1. By Grace Ye Are Saved (Part I)
Introductory Remarks.
1. First, we will notice how God has justified us freely by His grace through Christ Jesus. In this lesson: "By grace ye are saved," of course, we are talking about the God of heaven. He calls all believers by His Grace. We must appreciate the truth outlined in the scriptures, that salvation is procured: "by grace through the faith in Christ Jesus," Ephesians 2:8-9. Grace is solely bestowed upon us through our "faith and obedience" to the gospel of Christ, Romans 1:16. This lesson will be presented in two parts. You have them now.
2. Second, we will observe how Christ has become the Propitiation for our sins. In Paul’s Letter to Rome, he wrote: “Being justified freely by His grace through the faith that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth [to be] the Propitiation through the redemption that is in His Blood, to declare His righteousness for the remission of sins that are passed, through the forbearance of God. To declare, [I say,] at this time His righteousness that He might be Just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus,” Romans 3:23-26. Please, open your bibles to this text while I continue my introductory remarks. I am asking you to open your bibles and your hearts. And to stay with me as we move through this lesson. Jesus promises: [“That the good and honest heart will hear, believe, and obey the gospel: sown through the preaching of the word of God,”] Luke 8:15.
3. Lastly, we will investigate how God has made His Plan of pardon and forgiveness known. With this brief introduction, let's consider how God called us by His Grace. Paul wrote to Titus: “Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God’s elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness: In the hope of eternal life, which God that cannot lie: promised before the world began. But hath in due times manifested His word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour,” Titus 1:1-4.
[Now, please turn to Romans 3:23-26]
As we dig a little deeper!
BODY OF LESSON
I BY GRACE, YE ARE SAVED (Part I)
A. Justified by His Grace. Paul wrote: "For all have sinned…Being justified freely by His Grace," Romans 3:23-26. "justified" means to render (i.e., to show or regard as) just or innocent: —to be free or declared righteous. To be considered just or righteous before God.
1. Paul affirms that we are justified freely by His Grace. The word "freely" means undeservedly gratuitously: —without a cause, freely, given by another.
2. By His Grace. The word “grace” means to show graciousness on behalf of another, to find one: —acceptable, favorable, to bestow Grace as a gift, to be Grace (- ious), to show liberality, good pleasure, loving-kindness, or divine favor. Illustrate,
[How God in every dispensation found favor with believers]
a. Noah. Moses wrote: “But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD,” Genesis 6:8. God saw in Noah righteousness that he approved: faith and obedience, Hebrews 11:7; 1 Peter 3:20-21; 2 Peter 2:5.
b. Mary. Luke wrote: “And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favor with God,” Luke 1:30. A young woman who waited and trusted in the Lord became the mother who gave birth to the Savior. Through her womb, a Savior was born into the world. The angel said to Joseph: “And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call His name Jesus: For He shall save His people from their sins,” Matthew 1:21. Paul wrote of his calling by Grace and conversion to Christ.
[Sometimes a person's faith is contrary to the will of God]
[Turn to Galatians 1:13]
c. Paul. He wrote: “For you have heard of my conversation in time past…And I profited in the Jew's religion…being exceeding zealous in the traditions of my fathers. But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb and called me by his Grace," Galatians 1:13-16; 1:21-24.
[Let’s notice how God has shed His Grace on us]
d. Believers. Paul to Titus later wrote: "But after that, the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared. Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; That being justified by his Grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life,” Titus 3:4-7. Consider this illustration,
[How Grace is given and received]
NOTE: While preaching this lesson in Arizona, in the Tonto Church of Christ: I asked the audience, will a brother give me a $5.00 bill, please? Well, I'm waiting, brothers. OK, Sisters, can one of you give me a $5.00 bill? Now, any little one in the audience who understands me. Come to me and accept this gift (I held the bill up for all to see). Grace is given, but the believer must accept God's Grace. God offers His Grace freely; we must willingly receive it! “For He came unto His own,” John 1:11-12.
[Believers must accept the Grace of God upon His terms]
3. God has given believers His mercy and Grace under the "first testament.” Grace is provided to all: "When it pleases God." Now let’s finish our review of Romans 3:23-26. Again, let's pick up: "Being justified freely by His grace,” Romans 3:24. Please,
[Return with me to Romans 3:24]
B. What God hath done. Paul wrote: "Being justified freely by His Grace…Whom God hath set forth [to be] the Propitiation through (the) faith in His Blood, to declare His righteousness for the remission of sins that are passed, through the forbearance of God. To declare, [I say,] at this time His righteousness that He might be Just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus,” Romans 3:24-26. Jesus' redemptive work at Calvary declared God’s righteousness in forgiving the sins under the “first testament, the Law of Moses.” Due entirely because Christ’s shed blood would also forgive the sins committed under this and other dispensations. To declare His righteousness in forgiving sins past, present, and future! What a wonderful God we serve. Although we cannot fully understand God's mercy and love. Observe,
[These examples of forgiveness under the Law]
1. David’s sin and forgiveness. It was Grace that permitted God to forgive him, 2 Samuel 12:1-7.
Note: David's sin, although terrible and wretched, there will be more liars in hell than adulterers!
2. The woman at the well. It was Grace that permitted the Lord to forgive her, John 4:16-18. Why?
3. The prodigal son. The prodigal son is a story of forgiveness, reconciliation, and restoration. Grace permitted God to forgive an erring brother: "who made waste of his substance," Luke 15:24.
4. It was God’s Grace that forgave my sins and transgressions. It was Grace that forgave your sins and disobedience. A wretch of a man, disobedient, stubborn, and a disbeliever! I have accepted God's terms of Grace and pardon. I thank Him for His mercy, love, and Grace!
5. Christ's death and shed Blood have provided cleansing and forgiveness for all humanity!
[Christ is our Propitiation – mercy seat]
C. Christ the Propitiation. God hath set forth Christ Jesus as the Propitiation: our mercy seat, Hebrews 9:5. Calvary was the place and means whereby Christ appeased and satisfied God: offering His Blood to atone for the world's sins, John 19:34; 1 John 2:1-2.
1. First, “Propitiation means a place or thing, i.e., an atoning victim, or a place behind the veil: —the mercy-seat. Isaiah wrote: “He (God) shall see of the travail of His (Christ) soul, and shall be satisfied…and my righteous servant shall justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities,” Isaiah 53:11.
[How was God satisfied?]
2. Further, "Through the redemption in His blood," Romans 3:25; Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 1:13-14. Redemption and forgiveness are only possible through His Blood. It was at Calvary Jesus shed it!
[Christ's atonement was necessary:]
a. One, "To declare God's righteousness for the remission of past sins." The sins passed over in the former ages (Patriarch, Mosaic). At times of ignorance: "God once winked at, but now commandeth all men everywhere to repent," Acts 17:30; Acts 14:16; Psalms 50:16-23.
b. Two, “Through the forbearance of God.”
c. Three, "The transgressions under the first testament."
3. Next, "To declare His righteousness, [I say,] at this time." To show His righteousness for these acts of Grace towards those he had called under the Old Covenant. For what reason:
a. First, "That He might be Just," Isaiah 45:21; Jeremiah 23:5-6.
b. Second, “The Justifier of him which believeth in Jesus,” Romans 3:26. Therefore, we have been,
4. Lastly, “Justified freely by His grace through the faith in Christ Jesus," Romans 3:24; Galatians 2:16.
[Please, turn to Titus 2:11-12].
[Grace hath appeared, for all men].
D. To Titus, Paul wrote: "For the Grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men. Teaching us that by denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in this world," Titus 2:11-12. The NRSV has it: "For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all, training us to renounce impiety and worldly passions, and in the present age to live lives that are self-controlled, upright, and godly," Page 742. Observe, of this Grace,
[It was made known: “in the fullness of time according to the Plan of God,” Ephesians 1:10-11.]
God's Plan was revealed to the world after He sent Jesus to fulfill His work of redemption. His Plan: “Was hidden unto the wise, but made known unto babes,” Matthew 11:25-27; Luke 10:21-24.
[Jesus here is speaking of His apostles.] [Turn now to Titus 1:1]. Notice,
1. The apostle wrote: “Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God’s elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness: In the hope of eternal life, which God that cannot lie promised before the world began. But hath in due times manifested His word through preaching, which is committed unto me (and the other apostles) according to the commandment of God our Saviour,” Titus 1:1-4; Jude 1:3.
[This Plan was]
a. Conceived by God, who cannot lie before the world began (in eternity).
b. Commission by God to be preached in due time (or in the fullness of time).
c. Committed to the apostles by the commandment of God our Savior.
[The Dispensation]
[Turn to Ephesians 3:1-6]
2. Fullness of time: “Is the dispensation of God’s grace,” or the “Christian Age,” Ephesians 3:1-6; Ephesians 1:10. The uncovering of the mystery of Christ: is the revelation of the “mystery of godliness,” 1 Timothy 3:16. The “dispensation of the grace of God” was:
a. Given by revelation. To the apostle Paul. He outlined: “How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery,” Ephesians 3:3a; Galatians 1:10-12. God granted it to me by the revelation of Christ!
b. Recorded by inspiration. “As I wrote afore in few words,” Ephesians 3:3b. I recorded it by the inspiration of God, in just a few words for you: the Gentile believers.
c. Learned by examination. “Whereby, when you read,” Ephesians 3:4a. That when you read it, you might obtain my knowledge into the “mystery of Christ.” Listen to Paul’s conclusion. That,
d. Acquire the illumination. “You may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ,” Ephesians 3:4b. Are you listening? I wrote it, so you may “understand my knowledge into the mystery of Christ.” That we might understand it alike! I wish I had some help! Amen, sister Ceilings.
[He continued,]
3. Which in other ages: “It was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto His holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; That the Gentiles should be fellow-heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ by the gospel,” Ephesians 3:3-6. This is the “gospel of the grace of God, the Lord Jesus sent Paul to testified,” Acts 20:24; Galatians 1:22-24. Some might say,
[I don’t see it like that!]
NOTE: Some argue I don’t see it like that; my preacher…what’s the problem? The truth of it is, "You ain't been reading." Here is why this is so important! All must read and study the Book of Acts and the Letters written by the apostles to the churches (i.e., Romans, Galatians, Ephesians, Colossians, etc.). To understand the mystery of Christ and the Grace of God: "That has brought salvation to both Jews and Gentiles.”
[Mystery of Godliness]
4. In these Letters, you will read about the “mystery of godliness” revealed unto us in the “dispensation of the grace of God!” This is the last dispensation, after which Jesus: “Shall appear from heaven” to complete His redemptive work in the saints, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; 1 Thessalonians 3:16.
5. Hear Paul again: "We wait for the blessed hope and the manifestation of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. He it is who gave himself for us that he might redeem us from all iniquity and purify for himself a people of His own who are zealous for good deeds. Declare these things; exhort and reprove with all authority. Let no one look down on you,” Page 742. The NRSV, Titus 2:13-15. Look here! Time has quickly escaped me. As I conclude Part I, let me review what we discussed…
CONCLUSION
C. Invitation. [Explain the pattern of conversion, i.e., hearing and believing the gospel; repentance of all past sins; confessing faith in Christ, as the Son of God; and then, by obeying the gospel; that is to: “repent and be baptized, in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost,” Acts 2:38; Romans 6:17-18; Ephesians 1:12-14.]
D. Exhortation. Let it not be said of us: “The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved,” Jeremiah 8:20.
E. Motivation. Do as Peter directed: “Save thyself from this untoward (wicked and ungodly) generation,” Acts 2:40; Acts 2:36-39; Acts 2:41.
[The End of Part I]
[The Beginning of Part II]
By Grace Ye Are Saved (Manuscript)
Scripture: Galatians 1:13-16, Romans 3:23-26, Ephesians 1:12-14, Ephesians 2:1-10
Summary: To establish that when we were dead in trespasses and sins, God, because of His great love and mercy, wherewith He loved us: "Hath quickened us together with Christ and by grace we were saved through the faith.”
INTRODUCTION
A. Outline.
1. By Grace Ye Are Saved (Part II)
B. Introductory Remarks.
1. First, we will review some examples of the forgiveness of Jesus during His earthly ministry. This is necessary to separate what Jesus did during His ministry from what the apostles were commanded to do as they made know the "pattern of conversion," which began on the Day of Pentecost when the apostles: “Hath in due times manifested His word through preaching,” Titus 1:1-3. [I must caution each of you listening to my voice not to confuse any act of mercy and forgiveness of Jesus under the "first testament,"] as an example of salvation for us under the New Testament. Grace and truth came from Jesus Christ, John 1:17. After Jesus' death, burial, resurrection, and ascension into heaven, His will came into effect. Through the preaching of the "gospel of the grace of God" to all believers gathered in Jerusalem, Acts 2:5.
2. Second, we will consider the dispensation of Grace, the New Covenant in the New Testament. This Covenant is the record of the “final dispensation: the revelation of the grace of God.” God has made known unto the world His terms of pardon for sins for those living under “the dispensation of grace.” We must follow the commandments and examples of salvation outlined in the Book of Acts. This is the record of the “pattern of conversion,” revealed by the Holy Spirit unto the apostles, by the commandment of God our Savior, John 16:12-15; Acts 1:8; Acts 2:1-4.
3. Lastly, we will investigate how Grace has been bestowed upon the believers. God has granted the world His mercy and grace "through the faith in Christ Jesus." All must accept Christ through hearing, believing, and obeying the "gospel of Christ." And I might add: we cannot have the man (Jesus) without accepting His Plan (as revealed by God)! No man has the authority or right to add to, or to take away, anything God has commanded in our faith and obedience to the gospel of Christ, Romans 1:16. [We are going to witness Paul’s pictorial message of how Grace saved the Ephesians.] When they were with Jesus: dead in trespasses and sins. There God quickened: made them alive (or saved them by His Grace), and raised them to sit in heavenly places in Christ! I pray the eyes of your understanding will be enlightened in this lesson. If you stay with me, you will know when, how, and where: God saved us by His Grace! Are you ready to "dig a little deeper" into the word of truth? Alright!
4. With this brief introduction, let’s continue discussing how “By grace, ye are saved."
[Examples of Jesus’ forgiveness during His ministry]
BODY OF LESSON
II BY GRACE YE ARE SAVED (Part II)
A. Examples of forgiveness of Jesus. Preachers, ministers, evangelists, and religious leaders, are cautioned not to propose any examples of the miracles of Jesus, acts of healing, cleansings, forgiveness, or saving: as an example of "the pattern of conversion," being taught by Him during His ministry. The Holy Spirit revealed this truth to the apostles: on Pentecost, Acts 2:1-17. Some of you, probably listening and considering my words, maybe extremely puzzled (and I understand). Because this is different from what we had learned from those who were, and are, our spiritual leaders and advisors. The Master saw the same look in the face of His apostles! He told them, “I have many things to say unto you, but you cannot bear them now. Howbeit, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth…He will show you things to come,” John 16:12-15. Wait a minute, Lord: you mean we do not have all the truth NOW? Jesus said to those Jews that believed in Him: "If you continue in my word, then are you my disciples indeed; And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free," John 8:30-36. Paul revealed: “The truth which is after godliness,” Titus 1:1-3; Titus 2:11-12; Titus 3:4-7.
[Here are a few examples,]
1. The woman at dinner. This woman washed Jesus’ feet with her tears and dried them with her hair. “And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven…Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace,” Luke 7:48-50.
2. The woman who touched Him. That had an issue with Blood. Jesus: “Said unto her, Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made you whole; go in peace,” Luke 8:48.
NOTE: Grandchildren can't go to "big momma's house." They could not visit her. To touch her or anything in her house would cause them to be unclean. They would have to be washed and isolated until evening. But she found Jesus: and with her touch of faith, Jesus removed her social disgrace! She was healed and made clean after touching the hem of His garment.
3. The blind man. Jesus said: “Unto him, receive thy sight: thy faith hath saved you,” Luke 18:42.
4. Thief on the cross. “And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise,” Luke 23:42-43. Let's be clear he did not ask to be saved but to be remembered. I sadly state,
NOTE: The entire doctrine of salvation by faith, apart from obedience: has been built upon the thief on the cross. Mr. Billy Graham often spoke of the "thief" in his Crusades, on his website, and in his book: “How to be Born Again.” [I confess I believe he was saved by Christ then, but I cannot confidently testify that he was NOT baptized by John the Baptist.] He and other evangelicals seem to know more about the: "thief’s spiritual condition” than God’s Plan to save believers outlined in the New Testament.
[Finally, Jesus’]
5. Healing the man with palsy. Seeing their faith: "He said, son, thy sins be forgiven you,” Mark 2:5. Look how personal Jesus was with the man: calling him a son. This man had four friends. These men overcame every obstacle to get their friend before Jesus. That He might heal him of this paralyzing affliction. Jesus saw their faith, being moved with compassion: He healed him and forgave his sins.
B. These acts of love and mercy were done under the “first testament.” These believers were healed, cleansed, forgiven, and saved by Jesus at the close of the Old Testament while He was on earth.
[Here’s why,]
1. Jesus said: “That you may know, that the Son of man hath power while on earth to forgive sins,” Mark 2:1-12. Jesus’ will or the “new testament” was not yet in force. He has yet to die, be buried, rise from the dead, and ascend into heaven.
[That’s why He could say,]
2. To the thief: “Today thou shalt be with me in paradise.”
3. The Master could save all who had faith in Him in any way He desired.
4. All these were saved, forgiven, or made whole under the "first testament," the "Old Covenant," or the Law of Moses, Galatians 3:16-17; Hebrews 8:7; Hebrews 9:1. What evangelicals, preachers, and spiritual leaders don’t seem to understand and believe: is that we are under the “New Covenant,” the New Testament Age: “the dispensation of the grace of God,” Ephesians 1:10-11; Ephesians 3:3-6.
[God’s “pattern of conversion” was revealed]
NOTE: Paul emphasized in His Letter to the Ephesians what these ministers and teachers have minimized in their preaching. We must have the Plan to have the Man! You can’t come to Jesus without faith and obedience. Jesus said: “No man can come to me…It is written in the prophets,” John 6:44-45. The Master said elsewhere: "He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living Water. (But this Jesus spoke of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because Jesus was not yet glorified),” John 7:38-39. He was to come after Jesus had passed into heaven, Luke 24:49; Acts 1:8; Acts 1:9-11. We are now under the "covenant of Christ," having better hope, and “more exceeding great and precious promises,” 2 Peter 1:3-4. Amen, beloved in the Lord!
[The New Covenant]
C. In this Covenant, we must seek out the Lord's terms of pardon and forgiveness. Matthew wrote: "And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed it…and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. And he took the cup…and gave it to them, saying…For this is my Blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins,” Matthew 26:26-29.
1. We observe this sacred feast each Lord’s Day, Acts 20:7.
2. When we gather around the Lord’s table, 1 Corinthians 10:16.
3. When we break the bread and drink the cup to remember Him, 1 Corinthians 11:23-30.
[When was His Blood shed?]
4. When did Jesus shed His Blood? On the cross at Calvary. John wrote: "But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced His side, and immediately came out blood and water,” John 19:34.
a. Blood for forgiveness and purification of sins. When: “He had made purification of sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high,” Hebrews 1:3; Hebrews 9:13-17; 1 Peter 1:18-19. He has fulfilled all that has been said of Him in the Law and prophets.
1) His work of redemption for our sin is now complete. He said: “It is finished,” John 19:30. He also said: “I have not come to destroy the Law and the prophets, but to fulfill them,” Matthew 5:17-18.
2) Salvation, hope, and eternal life are now possible. We know “the way, the truth, and the life,” John 14:6. What Jesus now commands, through His apostles: “Is the faith of God’s elect, and the truth which is after godliness,” Titus 1:1-3. These make up “the apostles’ doctrine,” Acts 2:42; 1 Corinthians 14:37.
3) God's mercy and Grace have: “Called us out of darkness into His marvelous light,” 1 Peter 2:9.
[As saints of light]
4) Let us: “Give thanks unto the Father…Who delivered us from the power of darkness, and translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son: In whom we have redemption…the forgiveness of sins,” Colossians 1:12-14. We now serve an extraordinary God and Savior: "Being made free from sin, and become servants to God, we having our fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life," Romans 6:19-22; Romans 6:1-7. For the “wages of sin (is) are death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord,” Romans 6:23.
[Water for our washing]
b. Water for the washing away our sins, Acts 22:16; 1 Corinthians 6:11; Titus 3:4-7.
1) Let us: “Draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our heart sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water,” Hebrews 10:22.
2) The veil of separation has been removed. The "temple veil was rent from top to bottom," Matthew 27:50-51. After Jesus bowed His head and gave up the ghost (His Spirit).
a) Signifying the way to the throne of God is now open to all through our "great high priest," Hebrews 4:15-16. He that compassionately listens to our prayers and grants unto us the desires of our hearts: that are in keeping with the will of God.
b) Paul wrote: “Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus; By a new and living way, which He hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, His flesh; and having a great high priest over the house of God,” Hebrews 10:19-21.
c) Heaven's intervention made human intercession possible through the veil.
3) Jesus Christ, “the same yesterday, today and into the ages,” Hebrews 13:8. The NRSV, page 784.
[Mediator of the New Testament]
[Please turn your bibles to Hebrews 9:14-15]
D. Mediator of the New Testament. Paul wrote: “For if the blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a heifer sprinkling the ones having been defiled, sanctifieth to the purifying of their flesh: By how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself unblemished to God, will purify the conscience of us from dead works, to serve the living God!” Hebrews 9:13-14; 1 Peter 3:20-21.
[Observe, for this cause,]
1. First, "He is the mediator of the New Testament, so that through death:"
a. “For the redemption of the transgressions under the first testament.” The Old Testament!
b. “That the ones having been called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance,” Hebrews 9:15. “Having obtained eternal redemption for us,” Hebrews 9:8-12.
c. Jesus’ Blood covered all of them included in the: “Roll Call of Faith,” Hebrews, 11:1-40; Hebrews 12:1-3; Hebrews 1:1-3.
2. Further, "For where a testament is, there is also the necessity:"
a. "The death of the testator." Jesus had to die first!
b. “For a testament is of force after men are dead,” Hebrews 9:16-17a.
3. Lastly, “Otherwise, it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth,” Hebrews 9:17b. The will of Christ was not in effect during His earthly ministry. It came into force after His resurrection and ascension into heaven. Once in effect, the first testament passed away, Hebrews 8:13.
[How was Grace bestowed upon us?]
[Please turn to Romans 5:1-2]
E. By faith in Christ. Paul wrote: “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by (the) faith into this (the) grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in the hope of the glory of God," Romans 5:1-2. Let's put it all together; please turn to Ephesians, chapter 1. I will give you a little time to get there! Are your eyes on this text?
[Observe how Paul]
1. Describes how God's Grace: called and saved the Ephesians. This is their example of faith and obedience to the: "pattern of conversion," as revealed by the Holy Spirit in Ephesians chapter 1, verses 12-14. Here he wrote: how they were called, received, and obeyed the gospel of Christ. It was to the elders at Miletus: “He testified unto them the gospel of the grace of God,” Acts 20:24.
[He wrote to them,]
2. In whom you also trusted: “After that, you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that, you believed, you were sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise: Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of His glory,” Ephesians 1:12-14; Galatians 3:14; Galatians 4:6.
[Paul explains,]
a. After we “heard the word of truth, the gospel of our salvation: we believed, obeyed, and were sealed.” Paul states: “We were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise."
1) God’s seal of the Holy Spirit is His (surety) of our eternal redemption.
2) He is God's pledge that He will fulfill His eternal promise at the “last day,” John 6:44; John 11:23-26.
b. He is the earnest, or “down payment” of our “eternal inheritance,” Hebrews 9:14-15.
NOTE: Illustrate earnest money, or a down payment, as a pledge to pay the bill in full.
c. Until the redemption of the purchased possession (our bodies), Romans 8:23; Ephesians 4:30.
1) The resurrection and “changing of our vile bodies to be fashioned,” Philippians 3:20-21.
2) The saints shall all "sleep in Jesus” until He returns to raise them, 1 Thessalonians 3:13; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18.
3) “Every eye shall see Him,” Revelation 1:7.
4) At that day, all the dead in the grave, both good and evil, shall rise, John 5:28-29.
5) Every "tongue shall confess Jesus as Lord to the glory of God the Father,” Philippians 2:5-11.
d. Unto the praise of His glory, Ephesians 1:14.
e. conclusion. Paul explains how Ephesus received the gospel. How they trusted in Christ, heard the word of truth, the gospel of their salvation, and were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise.
[Paul explains their conversion]
NOTE: Paul now transitions from the “in whom” of chapter 1; to the “with Christ, with Him, and in Christ” in chapter 2. Please, turn your Bible to Ephesians, chapter 2, verses 1-3.
[We being]
3. Dead in trespasses and sins. Paul first deals with the Ephesians’ past state: “Being dead in trespasses and sins…by nature the children of wrath, even as others.” He transitions to their call by God's Grace.
[Painting a vivid word picture]
NOTE: Our minds see pictures of the words we speak and hear, Luke 8:4-15.
Paul will paint for the readers a vivid “word picture" of the Ephesians’ conversion in Ephesians, chapter 2, verses 4-10. Using words to describe their spiritual change from sinners to saints. Observe,
[Lively prepositional phrases]
Finally, he uses lively prepositional phrases, like: “with Christ, in Christ, or with Him” in verses 4-10. Are your eyes on the text? Paul, in verse four, begins with, why God saved the Ephesians by His Grace!
[Please put your finger on verse 4]
[He begins, but God,]
a. He wrote: “Who is rich in mercy, for His great loved wherewith He loved us,” Ephesians 2:4.
b. God is good: “For His mercy endureth forever,” Psalms 106:1; Psalms 86:5; Psalms 100:5.
c. For His great love wherewith He loved them and us. Paul included himself in this Letter.
1) Jesus said: “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life,” John 15:13-14.
2) Paul wrote: “But God commended His love toward us,” Romans 5:8-11; 2 Corinthians 5:14-15.
3) John wrote: “Hereby perceive we the love of God because He laid down His life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren,” 1 John 3:16; John 3:16.
[Even when we were]
[Looking at verse 5]
d. Dead in trespasses and sins. This was our spiritual condition when God called us by His Grace. Beloved, are you looking at this text? Now, wait a minute.
[Quickened us together]
4. Paul uses a verb to describe this action: “quickened” us together. What doth “quickened” mean in this context? 1) To make one alive together; 2) to reanimate (conjointly) with; or 3) to revive spiritual life with Christ, imparted to believers at their conversion.” This is God's means of granting His Grace to the believer “through the faith in Christ Jesus,” Ephesians 2:8-9; Philippians 3:9.
NOTE: Reference, W. E. Vine, page 241; BLB, Cross-References, KJV Phrase, “Grace ye.” In Gr., “(by whose grace ye were saved)," Ephesians 2:5; Romans 5:1-2.
[Vivid word picture of their conversion]
[Verse 1 & 5]
The apostle is NOW giving us a vivid word picture: of what occurred during our conversion to Christ. We, too, have believed and obeyed what the Ephesians had done. Consider,
a. When we were “together with Christ,” dead in our trespasses and sins, Ephesians 2:1; Ephesians 2:5.
b. God quickened us: “made alive again, reanimated, and revived us from the dead,” Romans 14:9.
c. While we were together with Christ (with Him), Ephesians 2:4-5, Colossians 2:13.
d. He “Saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and the renewing of the Holy Ghost…That being justified by His Grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life,” Titus 3:5; John 3:3-5; 1 Peter 1:22-23. Please listen to me now, and hear me good, beloved in the Lord!
[Only time we will be with Jesus in our sins]
[Verse 5]
NOTE: This is the only time we will ever be with Jesus in our sins! And this is the real blessing! Visitors, friends, and saints: "When were we with Jesus in our sins?” Some might say: “We can never be with Jesus in our sins!” However, what word picture is Paul painting about the Ephesians?
e. This happened when they “were together with Christ!”
NOTE: I invite all of you to confirm what I’m preaching. Just ask your minister, pastor, or spiritual leader this question: “When were we together with Christ: dead in our trespasses and sins?” Then, judge for yourself whether their answer agrees with Paul's. And what your eyes are reading right NOW! How did Paul describe this experience? We are getting to the truth of the entire matter. He continued by writing,
[By Grace, ye (you) are saved]
[Verse 5; and verses 8-9]
5. Paul wrote: “(By grace, you are saved).” Are you looking at this sentence? Now, according to Paul,
a. When WE WERE with Christ:
1) Dead in our trespasses and sins.
2) God quickened us together with Him: and made us alive! Reanimated, revived, renewed, and regenerated! I can say like Jesus: “Reborn, born again, or born anew,” John 3:3-5.
3) It was THEN: “(by grace, we were saved!),” Ephesians 2:5. Paul uses a parenthesis in this verse.
[Definition of a parenthesis]
NOTE: It is “an amplifying or explanatory (word, phrase, or sentence) inserted in a passage (a text) from which it is usually set off by punctuation: that are explained further (in the parenthesis).” See Merriam-Webster Dictionary. This is not a sermon on the English language. It is a sermon on Grace! In his Letter to the Ephesians, Paul emphasized where God's Grace was obtained. He did that by offsetting the word "quickened" to mean: "by grace, you have been saved" in the parenthesis. Amen!
[In this parenthesis]
4) Paul, explains that the phrase: “Hath quickened us together” means: “(by grace, you were saved).” The truth of this is undeniable! Read the text yourselves!
5) To be: “quickened,” or made alive, is synonymous with being: “saved by grace” or “forgiven of all trespasses and sins,” Ephesians 2:5; Colossians 2:13. We will see this in a few moments! NOW!
b. Where did all this happen, according to Paul?
c. What picture do you have in your mind right NOW? What truth do you see in this text?
d. Here’s the long and short of it: “When we were dead in trespasses and sins; God quickened us together with Christ (making us alive); and it was then, by grace, we were saved.”
e. These are not my words, but the words of the beloved apostle Paul!
[Surprisingly,]
The New Greek/English Interlinear New Testament reads: “Even when we were dead in the trespasses, He made us alive together with Christ, [by grace you have been saved],” page 644. The NRSV, for Ephesians 2:5. The only thing missing in this word picture: is the place or location that we were with Jesus. Don’t be alarmed. Paul told us where it was in two other acts of conversions. In these, he describes,
[Our union with Christ]
f. This word picture could only describe our "union with Christ in baptism.” Observe,
1) To Colossae, he wrote: “Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye have risen with Him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised Him from the dead. And you, being dead in sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath He quickened together with Him, having forgiven all trespasses,” Colossians 2:11-13. Do you see the same picture in Paul's Letter to the Colossians?
Let's look at his Letter to the Romans.
2) To Rome, he wrote: "Know you not that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ we were baptized into His death? Therefore, we are buried with Him by baptism into death: like Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so, we also should walk in newness of life…For he that is dead is freed from sin,” Romans 6:3-7; Romans 6:11; Romans 6:22.
3) What word picture did Paul paint to the Colossians and the Romans? He painted the same picture of them that he did of the Ephesians.
4) Conclusion: The place or location where all this occurred: was their baptism. This explains to any person with a “good and honest heart" why sinners are commanded to believe and be baptized, Mark 16:15-16. Evangelicals, and other religious institutions, practice baptizing: “the saved to become members of their denominations.” Most, however, do not practice this act of faith at all. To these, it is unnecessary!
[The New Testament] however,
5) Commands that sinners (repentant believers) are to be “baptized for the remission of sins, to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost,” Acts 2:36-41; Ephesians 1:12-14. We are almost done! Finally, God,
[Raised us together]
6. Raised us in Christ. Paul concluded: “And (God) hath raised us together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus,” Ephesians 2:6-7; Romans 6:4-5. Amen, somebody!
[The pattern of conversion]
NOTE: We have witnessed the Ephesians’ "pattern of conversion" in picture form: after the gospel was preached, it was believed and obeyed. The facts of the gospel are believed in the heart, and the form of the doctrine: is obeyed from (Gr., ek, out of) the heart, Romans 10:9-10; Romans 10:16-18. The facts of the gospel were heard, believed, and received, Acts 2:41; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4. And then, the "form of the doctrine," baptism, was obeyed by the Ephesians, Acts 19:1-7; Ephesians 4:5; Ephesians 5:26-27.
[Paul’s preaching of the “tupos” or form]
7. To Rome, he wrote: “But God be thanked, that you were the servants of sin, but you have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being made free from sin, you became the servants of righteousness,” Romans 6:17-18. Please observe,
a. What do you think that form of doctrine is? That they “obeyed from the heart.” The gospel of Christ requires our "faith and obedience,” Acts 6:7; Romans 1:5; Romans 15:18-19.
b. The doctrine that we preach; contains the "form" that we obeyed that freed us from our sin.
c. Everyone in this assembly knows what that is: "Belief in Jesus, repentance of sin; confessing Christ to be the Son of God, and then, be baptized for the remission of sins,” Acts 2:38. The sinner,
d. Gets in the Water with Jesus; to be quickened, saved by His Grace, and raised to “walk in the newness of life,” Romans 6:3-4; Ephesians 2:10. Do I have some help in this house?
[We have become new creatures]
8. Just like these Ephesians, Ephesians 2:10. We are new creatures, born again, made alive in Christ, 2 Corinthians 5:17; John 3:3-5. No longer are we dead in our trespasses and sins, Romans 6:6-7. Now, in Christ, we, too, are:
a. The children of God by (the) faith in Christ Jesus, Galatians 3:26-27. The article "ho" has not been translated as "the" in most English translations. The article when inserted into this sentence, changes its meaning, entirely. It is through the faith (doctrine of Christ) we are instructed to "believe and be baptized" to be saved, Mark 16:15-16. Peter profoundly expresses this truth when he wrote in his Letter to the scattered Jews. He penned,
1) First, “Seeing you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that you love one another with a pure heart fervently,” 1 Peter 1:22.
2) Further, “Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth forever,” 1 Peter 1:23. This no doubt is Peter’s recollection of Jesus’ discussion of the “new birth” or being “born again,” John 3:3-5. When he and the other disciples were “baptizing in Judea,” along with John, “who was baptizing in Aenon near to Salim,” John 3:22-23; John 4:1-3.
3) Lastly, “Which sometime were disobedient when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by Water. The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ,” 1 Peter 3:20-21.
4) Conclusion: Peter outlines how these scattered Jews, as well as himself: had conformed to the message of the gospel of the Grace of God. By purifying their souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit, by faith and baptism: “Which doth also NOW save us and provides an answer of a good conscience toward God.” He outlines their “faith and obedience to the gospel of Christ.” Their faith and obedience were the same messages he preached on Pentecost. Notice,
b. These repentant believers were told to: “repent, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins and to receive the gift of the Holy Spirit,” Acts 2:38; Ephesians 1:13-14.
c. Ananias instructed Paul: “To arise and be baptized to wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord," Acts 22:16; Acts 18:8; 1 Corinthians 6:11. Sadly,
NOTE: Too many believe and teach: there is nothing in the water. Tell the man at the Pool of Bethesda that there is nothing in the water. He attempted to get in the pool while the angel was agitating the water. He knew healing and cleansing were possible in the water when troubled, John 5:1-16.
1) Get in the water with Jesus. In baptism, “man's faith and God's Grace come together!” You, too, can be cleansed by the precious Blood of Christ and be forgiven of all your sins and trespasses.
[Salvation in Christ]
2) As God had placed his cleansing in that pool. He has placed our cleansing in Christ! The question before us is this: “Are you in Christ?” And if so: “how did you get in Christ?” Listen to Paul,
3) He wrote: “Therefore, I endure all things for the elect’s sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory," 2 Timothy 2:10; Mark 16:15-16. Those who are in Christ are saved, having become,
d. "New creatures in Christ Jesus," Ephesians 2:10; 2 Corinthians 5:17. We should all know why these acts of faith and obedience are so important! Amen, church. Again, my time has come and gone. As I conclude this lesson….
CONCLUSION
C. Invitation. “Come unto me all ye that labor,” Matthew 11:28-30. [Explain the pattern of conversion, i.e., hearing and believing the gospel; repentance of all past sins; confessing faith in Christ, as the Son of God; and then, by obeying the gospel; that is to: “repent and be baptized, in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost,” Acts 2:38; Romans 6:17-18; Ephesians 1:12-14.] What kind of Soil are we?
D. Exhortation. Let it not be said of us: “The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved,” Jeremiah 8:20.
E. Motivation. Do as Peter directed: “Save thyself from this untoward (wicked and ungodly) generation,” Acts 2:40; Acts 2:36-39; Acts 2:41. Come now; God is calling you to accept His love, mercy, and grace. As we stand and sing the song of invitation.
[The End of Part II]
Credit to my Contributors
I, therefore: "Render to all their dues: tributes to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; and honor to whom honor, (is due)," Romans 13:7. I thank and acknowledge my consultation with these distinguished authors in this lesson.
References
1. Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible, by Matthew Henry, Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Grand Rapids, MI, 1706.
2. The People's New Testament, by B. W. Johnson, Christian Publishing Company, Grand Rapids, MI, 1891.
3. The New Greek-English Interlinear New Testament; United Bible Societies,’ Fourth, Corrected Edition, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, IL, 1990.
4. Textus Receptus, taken from the Greek Text of Stephens 1550, The Englishman’s Greek New Testament, Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan, First Zondervan Printing, 1970.
5. Clarke Commentary on the Bible, Eight Volumes, Published 1810-1826, New York, Published by J. Emory, and B. Waugh, for the Methodist Episcopal Church, at the conference office, 13 Crosby-Street., J. Collord, Printer, 1831.
6. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, by W. E. Vine, Fleming H. Revell Company, Old Tappan, NJ, Copyright, 1981.
7. Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary © 2015 by Merriam-Webster, Incorporated; Springfield, Massachusetts, 01105.
8. Merriam-Webster Online Thesaurus © 2015 by Merriam-Webster, Incorporated; Springfield, Massachusetts, 01105.
9. Smith's Bible Dictionary, William Smith, Grand Rapids, MI: Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Printing 1884.
10. The Pastor’s Manual, by J. R. Hobbs, B & H Publishing Group, One Lifeway Plaza, Nashville, TN, 37234, Published, 1940.
11. The Standard Manual for Baptist Churches, by Edward T. Hiscox, D. D., American Baptist Publication Society, 1420–1422 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, Published, June 1903.
12. How to be Born Again, by Billy Graham, Word Publishing, Dallas, Texas, Copyright 1977, 1989.
Websites mentioned in the lesson.
1--We thank Billy Graham for his dedication to undertaking the work of World Evangelism. However, I'm saddened that he fell short in his efforts to declare the "whole counsel of God," Acts 20:27. Especially in his presentations of the necessity of baptism in the Christian faith. Just copy and paste this link into your browser, and hit enter. You can then read about Mr. Graham’s belief on baptism: https://billygraham.org/answer/is-baptism-necessary-for-salvation/
2--We thank Charles H. Spurgeon for his work and sermon on this biblical truth. Just copy and paste this link into your browser, and hit enter. You can then read Spurgeon’s sincere belief and teaching on the subject of: “faith and baptism," at https://godsbreath.net/2010/01/05/charles-spurgeon-about-baptism/
Ron Freeman, Evangelist
Worldwide Ministry Church of Christ.org
https://wwmchurchofchrist.org
Contact me at: wwmcoc@earthlink.net
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Visit and worship with the Church of Christ at Pickensville, AL, every Sunday at 11:00 AM and Wednesday at 6:00 PM. The call-in number is: 1-302-202-1110, Pin # is 214733. These men “know the Shepherd!”
