Statement on Faith, Grace, and Mercy (04/13/'24) -Viewpoint

Statement on Faith, Grace, and Mercy Faith and Grace Relationship: Faith without grace does not align with the true spirit of faith in Christ. Grace Amidst Human Struggle: Despite human shortcomings and struggles, such as addiction, the flow of God’s grace remains unabated. Nature of Grace: Grace represents God’s unmerited favor towards those who neither deserve it, can earn it, nor repay it. Grace in Action: Running alone is merely a race; running with God’s accompaniment is grace, which has the power to overcome our struggles, including addiction. Abundance of Grace: God provides grace in abundance, sufficient not only for personal sustenance but also for sharing with others. Transformative Power of Grace: Grace possesses the transformative power to change everything, potentially restoring and improving what is broken. Essential Quotes on Faith and Grace: "God can restore what is broken and change it into something amazing. All you need is faith." (Joel 2:25) "If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." (Matthew 17:20) Faith and Mercy Relationship: Faith devoid of mercy does not reflect true Christian faith. Justice and Mercy: In the absence of mercy, justice turns to cruelty. Grace and Righteousness: The grace of God is crucial, for without it, the death of Christ would be in vain. (Galatians 2:21) Mercy’s Role in Healing: The walls of mental separation fall, delivering us from selfishness through the encompassing mercy of Christ, leading to repentance. Opportunity for Repentance: Christ’s mercy offers the profound blessing of repentance. Forgiveness and Divine Mercy: "Whenever you stand praying, forgive if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father in heaven may also forgive your trespasses." (Mark 11:25) Pastor Steven G. Lee (April 13, 2024)