A LIFE OF DIVINE GRACE

Sermon Notes, February 17, 2013

Rev. George Stevenson

 

Rev. Stevenson brought us greetings from District Superintendent Fuller, and gave us a brief report on the state of the Virginia District: 105 worship centers, the Hispanic ministry is growing, and for about 15 minutes, all pastoral slots are filled.  He reminded us that the end of the church year is approaching: the end of April.

The sermon was based on Romans 8, a chapter of encouragement, especially after chapter 7 where the theme is “I want to serve God, but I have a problem in my heart.”  Chapter 7 is the story of a frustrated Christian.  Romans 8:1-6 tells us that life for a Christian is a life of Divine Grace.  Cheer up—Jesus is the answer.

The life of grace is a life of no frustration.  Some Christians live in worry and frustration, but Romans 8:28 says that all things work together for good—eventually.  God’s ways are not our ways.  We don’t always understand why things happen, but we can depend on God to give peace in the storm.

The life of grace is a life of no want, in the sense of want being need.  God supplies all our needs, and he gives us grace to take care of what he gives.  We ask ourselves “Do I NEED it, or do I just want it?”  When you obey God, you have peace. (Psalm 32:1)  God meets every need (Philippians 4:19) and sometimes a little extra.

The life of grace is a life of no condemnation.  All our sins were covered by Christ’s death on the cross.  Satan points us back to our sins to defeat and discourage us.  But all your sins are under grace.

The life of grace is a life of no fear.  The words “fear not” are found 365 times in the Bible—one for each day.  We don’t need to fear the future—we can hold the hand of the one who holds the future.  What can separate us from God?  Nothing.  We are more than conquerors.

Life for a Christian is a life of divine grace.