Title: Assurance of Salvation: Extending Mercy and Grace Through Faith (06/07/'24) -Statement

Title: Assurance of Salvation: Extending Mercy and Grace Through Faith Assurance of salvation is the foundation for extending mercy and grace. It is not found in the wonders we behold, nor in the miracles that stories have told, but in the faith we hold so dear in Christ our Savior. The parable of the rich man and Lazarus illustrates that even the most miraculous signs cannot replace the need for faith and grace in achieving salvation. Jesus teaches in Luke 10:20: "Don't rejoice because evil spirits obey you; rejoice because your names are registered in heaven." This reminds us that the true joy and assurance come from knowing we are saved and have eternal life with God, which enables us to extend mercy and grace to others genuinely and meaningfully. Extending the mercy and grace received through Christ to others is tied to the assurance of salvation. Without this assurance, it is difficult to genuinely extend such grace to neighbors. The assurance of salvation comes from faith in Christ, not from believing in miracles or the power of miracles. As believers, we are called to embrace this truth and live it out by sharing the mercy and grace we have received with every soul, to foe, to friend. Assured of heaven's promised land, with faith secured, we take our stand, embracing the call to love and the call to grace. Pastor Steven G. Lee (June 7, 2024)