The radical and stunning glory of the Gospel is that the grace we receive through Christ is not earned. This gracious salvation is a gift that comes to us through the Word of the Gospel. This gracious Word is proclaimed by both the Scriptures and the Sacraments.
But we must assert that that grace is not a carrot that God dangles before us. If you’re quick enough, or smart enough, or strong enough you can get it in your grasp. Rather, God brings His grace to us. He speaks to us in Scripture by revealing the great sufferings and subsequent glories of Christ. In the Sacraments, God sets us apart, sealing us as those to whom His redeeming work should be applied. In both the Word and Sacraments God freely gives us grace. The grace of a written testimony, and the grace of a covenant sign.
Not one bit of it earned by us. We are completely on the receiving end of this gracious life He gives to us.
So welcome our sisters to Jesus Christ…
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