From the Inside Out
A Grace Filled Life
Wrath and Grace (1|2)
Pages 57-62
Titus 3:3-7 (NIV) At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived, and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.
Psalm 138:6-8 (NIV) The LORD is exalted, he looks kindly on the lowly; though lofty, he sees them from afar. Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life. You stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes; with your right hand, you save me. The LORD will vindicate me; your love, LORD, endures forever - do not abandon the works of your hands.
Hebrews 1:1-4 (NIV) God’s Final Word: His Son In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. So he became as much superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is superior to theirs.
Why do you think many people today are comfortable talking about God’s grace but avoid the topic of His wrath? What might we lose when we separate the two?
How does knowing that Jesus was both fully like us and yet completely without sin affect the way you relate to Him in your own struggles and faith journey?
What are your thoughts on Mike’s illustration of a towel soaked in water?
Why do you think so many believers still feel the need to “add” something to what Christ has already done? What helps us truly rest in the completeness of His work?