Scandalous Grace Day 4
Day 4: Standing Firm in Grace
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
In a world that constantly changes its values and beliefs, standing firm in God's grace can feel like swimming against the current. The pressure to adapt our message to make it more palatable is real. But grace doesn't need our improvements or adjustments. It needs our faithfulness. When we face rejection or criticism for our faith, the temptation might be to soften the message or make it more acceptable. However, true grace, while always loving, will always challenge human pride and self-sufficiency.
"And I, when I came to you, brothers, did not come proclaiming to you the testimony of God with lofty speech or wisdom. For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified."
- 1 Corinthians 2:1-2
Reflection Question
What pressures do you face to compromise or soften the message of grace in your life?
Stay faithful, not trendy.
When you face rejection for your faith,
you don't need to rebrand the gospel or reinvent your method.
~Pastor Mike Mura
Prayer
Lord, give me the strength to remain faithful to Your message of grace, even when it's unpopular. Help me to seek Your approval above all else. Amen.