By Grace Are Ye Saved - Part 601

What is grace? Further, what does it mean when we say "by grace are ye saved." (Ephesians 2:5)

Certainly, the second chapter of Ephesians acknowledges that as believers in our Lord God and Saviour Jesus, we have come a long way since the time we were without Christ. The scriptures actually liken us -- that is in our former life -- to aliens and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, being without God in the world. But the Bible states that it does not have to be this way. Why? Because when we ask Jesus into our heart, those of us who were afar off are now made nigh to Him through the blood of Jesus. As a consequence, we have tasted His mercy. That the Lord is gracious. (I Peter 2:3)

Moreover, as a consequence of our faith, we become a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people that you show forth the praises of Him who hath called us out of darkness into His marvelous light. Which in time past were not a people but are now the people of God. Sons and daughters of the Most High King that had not known mercy until we believed on Jesus.

Trusted the He who is rich in mercy. Who because of His great love (wherewith He loved us even when we were dead in sins) hath quickened us together with Christ and hath raised us up and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. So that He might show us the exceeding riches of His grace toward us through the shedding of blood. 

Furthermore, for those of us who were once dead in trespasses and sins, wherein we walked according to the course of this world, and according to the prince of the power of the air, Jesus has made a way of salvation when none was available. For through Him -- Jesus -- God in the flesh -- we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. We are no more strangers and foreigners but instead fellow citizens with the saints. 

Other scriptures validate the breadth and depth of our heavenly Father's love. For example, He giveth more grace -- particularly to the humble. (James 4:6) Sin no longer has dominion over us for we are no longer under the law --- but under grace. (Romans 6:14) As such, we are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief corner stone. In whom all the building fitly framed together grows unto a holy temple in the Lord. In whom ye also are built together for a habitation of God through the Spirit. (Ephesians 2:18-22) 

It is He who said in II Corinthians 12:9 that "My grace is sufficient for thee. For my strength is made perfect in weakness." Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast. (Ephesians 2:4-9) God commends His love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8) Amazing grace -- how great thou art! Grace be with you in the name of Jesus. Stand in the offering plate.