Scandalous Grace Day 2
Day 2: When Grace Divides
God's grace creates both unity and division, as seen in Acts 14 through Paul and Barnabas's ministry. While grace transforms lives completely, it also offends human pride and self-righteousness. Many reject grace because it challenges their belief in earning salvation through good works, religious performance, or personal merit. The appropriate response to rejection includes perseverance, dependence on God, and wisdom in ministry. True biblical grace remains scandalous because it freely gives what we could never earn - perfect righteousness, forgiveness, and eternal life through Christ.
View Sermon HERE
Devotional
It might surprise us to learn that grace doesn't always unite - sometimes it divides. When truth meets pride, conflict often follows. This isn't a modern phenomenon; it's been happening since the early church. Some people embrace grace with joy, while others resist it fiercely. This resistance doesn't mean we're doing something wrong. In fact, when people strongly oppose the message of grace, it might be evidence that we're presenting it accurately. The gospel of grace is meant to comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable. It challenges our natural inclination to earn our way to God.
"Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division." - Luke 12:51
Reflection Question
How has your understanding of grace affected your relationships with others, both positively and negatively
Rejection does not mean failure. Hostility doesn't mean the gospel isn't working.
In fact, the very opposition you face may be the very evidence that it is.
~Pastor Mike Mura
Prayer
Father, give me courage to stand firm in the truth of Your grace, even when it creates division. Help me to respond with love to those who oppose this message. Amen.