Grace Upon Grace John 1:16
Introduction:
Today, we delve into the profound truth of God's abundant grace as revealed in John 1:16. This verse illuminates the endless wellspring of God's favour and blessing poured out upon us through Jesus Christ.
Bible Verse:
John 1:16 (NLT): "From his abundance we have all received one gracious blessing after another."
"Grace is the empowering presence of God that enables you to become who He created you to be and to do what He has called you to do." — Christine Caine
Point 1: The Source of Abundant Grace
The apostle John begins by highlighting the source of our abundant grace—Jesus Christ. The phrase "from his abundance" underscores the infinite nature of Christ's grace. Jesus, being fully God, possesses an unlimited reservoir of grace that flows freely to all who believe in Him.
Ephesians 2:8-9 (NLT): "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."
In Ephesians 2:8-9, the apostle Paul articulates a foundational truth of the Christian faith: salvation is a gift of God's grace, received through faith in Jesus Christ. This grace is not earned through our own efforts or merits but is freely bestowed by God's unmerited favour. It is a profound demonstration of His love and mercy towards humanity.
Paul emphasises that salvation is solely a product of God's grace, highlighting the inability of human works to earn or achieve salvation. This underscores the foundational principle that our relationship with God is initiated and sustained by His grace alone.
2 Corinthians 12:9 (NLT): "Each time he said, 'My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.' So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me."
In 2 Corinthians 12:9, Paul recounts the words of Christ affirming the sufficiency of God's grace in the midst of weakness and adversity. God's grace not only saves but also empowers believers to endure trials and challenges. It is through weakness that the strength and power of Christ are made manifest.
Paul's personal testimony underscores the transformative nature of God's grace, which empowers believers to navigate life's difficulties with confidence and faith. God's grace not only covers our sins but also enables us to live victoriously in Christ.
"Grace is the free, undeserved goodness and favour of God to mankind." — Matthew Henry
Point 2: Receiving Grace Upon Grace
John emphasises that "we have all received one gracious blessing after another." This statement reveals the ongoing nature of God's grace in our lives. As believers, we experience a continual outpouring of blessings from Christ's inexhaustible abundance.
Romans 5:20 (NLT): "God’s law was given so that all people could see how sinful they were. But as people sinned more and more, God’s wonderful grace became more abundant."
In Romans 5:20, Paul highlights the contrast between the law, which exposes human sinfulness, and God's abundant grace, which triumphs over sin. The increase of sin only serves to magnify the surpassing greatness of God's grace.
Paul reveals the transformative power of God's grace, which not only forgives sin but abounds in the face of human rebellion. As sin abounds, God's grace exceeds it, offering redemption and reconciliation to all who believe.
James 4:6 (NLT): "But he gives us even more grace to stand against such evil desires."
James 4:6 reinforces the concept of God's abundant grace, which empowers believers to resist temptation and live in obedience to His will. God's grace not only saves but equips us for spiritual warfare against the forces of evil.
James emphasises the necessity of relying on God's grace to overcome sinful desires and lead a life of holiness. As we submit to God, He provides the grace needed to resist temptation and walk in righteousness.
"Grace means undeserved kindness. It is the gift of God to man the moment he sees he is unworthy of God's favour." — Dwight L. Moody
Point 3: Living in Response to Grace
Understanding the depth of God's grace compels us to respond in gratitude and obedience. We are called to reflect Christ's grace to others and live transformed lives empowered by His unmerited favour.
Titus 2:11-12 (NLT): "For the grace of God has been revealed, bringing salvation to all people. And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God."
Titus 2:11-12 encapsulates the transformative impact of God's grace, which not only saves but also instructs believers to live in holiness and devotion. Grace empowers us to renounce sin and pursue godliness in a fallen world.
Paul underscores that God's grace initiates and sustains the process of sanctification in the lives of believers. Salvation is not merely a one-time event but a continual transformation empowered by God's grace.
"Grace is the free, sovereign, undeserved, unmerited favour of God to sinners." — J.I. Packer
Ephesians 4:7 (NLT): "However, he has given each one of us a special gift through the generosity of Christ."
In Ephesians 4:7, Paul acknowledges that every believer receives spiritual gifts from Christ, bestowed through His grace. These gifts are expressions of God's favour and are intended for the edification and unity of the body of Christ.
Paul highlights the diversity of spiritual gifts distributed among believers by Christ's grace. Each gift is essential for the functioning and growth of the Church, serving to glorify God and advance His kingdom.
"Grace is the overflowing favour of God, and you can always count on it being available to draw upon as needed." — Charles Stanley
Application:
These passages collectively affirm the transformative power and boundless nature of God's grace in the life of believers. May we continually rely on His grace to walk in obedience, resist sin, and fulfil our divine calling. Let us embrace the gift of grace with gratitude and humility, recognising that it is through Christ's sacrifice that we have been reconciled to God and empowered to live for His glory.
Receive God's Grace: Embrace the reality of God's abundant grace in your life, acknowledging His unmerited favour.
Reflect Grace: Extend grace and kindness to others, mirroring Christ's love in your relationships and interactions.
Live Transformed: Allow God's grace to transform every aspect of your life—thoughts, words, and actions.
Call to Action:
Let us embrace God's abundant grace with open hearts and respond with lives that reflect His love and mercy. As recipients of grace, may we be conduits of His blessings to a world in need of His transformative power.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the immeasurable grace poured out through Jesus Christ. Help us to fully grasp the depth of Your love and live in response to Your abundant favour. May Your grace empower us to impact the world around us for Your glory. In Jesus' name, amen.
May this sermon inspire a deeper appreciation for God's grace and encourage a life transformed by His unmerited favour.
