Living the Gospel: Faith, Action, and the Grace of Christ (02/17/'24)*

Living the Gospel: Faith, Action, and the Grace of Christ Individuals who find peace within themselves yet overlook the importance of safeguarding others may not fully comprehend the essential duality within Christ's teachings. While recognizing self-care's significance, they might not see how it extends to protecting others. In contrast, those deeply rooted in Christ's teachings draw strength from God's mercy and grace. Their commitment to the gospel involves rejecting deceit and adhering to Christ's directives with steadfast dedication, trusting the uncertain future to God's providence. Rather than fearing possible adversities, they focus on righteous living in the here and now. Their unwavering faith guides them to live out the gospel's teachings actively, avoiding the enticements of false wonders and temptations. The Holy Spirit's impact is revealed not just through intellectual engagement with the gospel's tenets but, more crucially, through genuine actions that embody these teachings. As Ephesians 2:8 highlights, the grace of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of our salvation. Our deeds both reflect our salvation, which is a gift of God's grace, and act as a witness to that grace. This perspective encourages a life of faith that is not merely theoretical but practiced, demonstrating the transformative power of living in alignment with divine principles. -Pastor Steven G. Lee (February 18, 2024)