How Grace Works

Series: "howstuffworks.God"
October 10, 2010


Opening
Coming to God’s word is an act of worship. So, after a time of welcome, we encourage you to spend some time in prayer or in singing to start your bible study. Create and atmosphere of praise to start your study on grace.

Learn It
Gordon MacDonald wrote: “You need not be a Christian to build houses, feed the hungry, or heal the sick. There is only one thing the world cannot do. It cannot offer grace.”   Discuss this proposition and the primacy of grace in Christian faith.

Read Ephesians 2:1-10
This passages teaches that we are saved by God’s grace. What does it means to be dead in our sins? Why does the bible teach that we need to be saved? What does is mean to be saved? Do you think most people agree that we need saved? What role does God’s love play in His grace and our lives?

Perhaps the most popular acronym to define it is ”God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense.” Does this help capture what is taught in this passage? What are some of God’s riches? What is the expense that Christ Jesus had to pay for us?

Live it
Do you have any personal stories of experiencing God’s grace?  If so, please share as much as you are comfortable.

Do you have any favorite bible stories that have helped you understand and embrace God’s grace?   If so, please share.

In the message we talked about the difference between you trying to work for God’s grace, and letting God’s grace work for you. Look at the following lists. Examine your life, and assess where you are at in these contrasting positions. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself on both sides. Use this exercise to help you let God work his grace deeper into your heart:

1. Holier than Thou             1. Humble
2. Critical                            2. Encouraging
3. Loathes others                3. Likes others
4. Unforgiving                    4. Eager to forgive
Lonely and Secretive          5. Joyful and Communal
6. Prayers of petition          6. Prayers of adoration
7. Insecure faith                  7. Assurance of salvation

The bible teaches that we are sinners saved by the grace of God.  But also, we are made saints by the grace of God, alive in Christ and filled with the Holy Spirit.  Discuss how holding to the truth of this revelation- we are both sinner and saint- can help us rely more on God’s grace.

Remember: we are saved by grace, and we live by grace! Grace is our regeneration, justification, sanctification and glorification! It’s all about God’s grace!

Leave time to pray for one another!

E 100 Challenge Readings, October 10-16
Day 17: Exodus 3-4
Day 18: Exodus 6-11
Day 19: Exodus 12
Day 20: Exodus 13-14
Day 21: Exodus 19-20
Day 22: Exodus 32-34
Day 23: Joshua 1