Page 152 - GRACE
P. 152
The Dangers of Grace
make myself a transgressor. For I through the law
died to the law that I might live to God. I have
been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who
live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I
now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of
God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. I do
not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness
comes through the law, then Christ died in vain.”
It is vital that we stress why we should not relate to the grace
of God on one hand, then engage in practices and lifestyles
that cannot coexist with the awesome grace of God which
we have received. Already we know that the grace of God
has appeared to all men: young, old, male, female, poor,
rich, single, married, self-righteous or wicked. Grace
brings understanding to its recipients; brings capacity to
comprehend and how to apply the mysteries of the
Kingdom. Grace makes us able to refuse the allurements of
worldly lusts. It divinely enables us to live a pleasing life to
God: living soberly, righteously and godly in this present
age. Grace also enables us to serve God reverently and
acceptably. It equips us to look forward to the glorious
appearing of our God and Christ. Grace works noticeable
changes in the life of the believer. It brings Transformation
and Conformity in the Christian.
Transformation happens within, the renewing of the mind.
It is the unmerited work of grace by the Holy Spirit, who
uses the instrumentation of the word of God. Yes, inner
transformation does affect outward appearance, but not
141