ACCESS TO GRACE by steve finnell
What is God's grace and how do men access that grace? Grace is not earned, it is obtained.
Romans 5:1-2 Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ 2 through whom we have gained access by faith unto this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. (NIV 1973)
A. Justified through faith, which is obtained by hearing and believing the gospel. (Romans 10:17 Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.) NIV 1973
B. Grace is accessed by faith. Faith is not accessed by grace.
Ephesians 2:8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--- and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God--(NIV 1973)
What is the gift of God? Answer: Salvation through faith.
Grace is the reason salvation is available through faith. Grace in and of itself cannot save anyone. Grace must be obtained.
Grace is available only because of the shed blood of Jesus Christ.
Titus 2:11 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. (NIV 1973)
Salvation is available to all men that meet God's terms for accessing His grace.
Hebrews 9:28 so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him. (NIV 1973)
The truth is, many are waiting for Jesus to return who have not accessed God's grace.
HOW TO ACCESS GOD'S GRACE
1. Faith--John 3:16
2. Repentance--Acts 2:38, Acts 3:19
3. Confession--Romans 10:9-10
4. Water Immersion--Mark 16:16, Acts 22:16