Sermon Recap
This sermon challenged us to reflect on the incredible gift of God’s grace. Grace is what allows you to follow Jesus and walk the narrow path of discipleship. Without it, you wouldn’t have the opportunity to know Him. Through the well-known hymn "Amazing Grace" and the story of its author, John Newton—a former slave trader transformed by God’s grace—you see how this gift can radically change even the hardest hearts.
Pastor defined grace as God’s unmerited favor and undeserved love, noting that it is freely given to those who deserve the opposite. Various forms of grace were mentioned, including seeking grace, saving grace, sanctifying grace, and sustaining grace. The simplest definition of grace is “gift,” and it is through this gift that we experience joy, both in receiving it from God and in offering it to others. An example of grace is showing grace to your children and reinforces how grace brings joy, especially when met with a repentant heart.
A central biblical example of grace is the story of Saul’s conversion to the Apostle Paul. Saul, known for persecuting Christians, encounters Jesus on the road to Damascus. This encounter transforms him from a fierce opponent of the faith to one of its greatest advocates. Despite his past, God’s grace not only forgives Paul but also commissions him to spread the gospel and write many of the New Testament books. This transformation shows how grace can completely change a person’s heart, life, and purpose.
We were reminded of five important truths about grace:
God’s Grace is a gift, not a reward.
God’s Grace is for all people.
God’s Grace is sufficient in our weakness.
God’s Grace abounds where sin abounds.
God’s Grace is not a thing, it’s a person.
Grace is at the heart of the gospel, and it’s through Jesus’ sacrifice that you are invited into a life of freedom, joy, and intimacy with God. God’s grace is always available to a humble and repentant heart, no matter where you find yourself.
Key Scripture
Read through these passages together:
Discussion Questions
Discuss together, pushing yourself toward transparency. The more we are authentic and humble with one another, the more we can grow in Christ.
How would you define grace in your own words, and how have you experienced God’s grace in your life?
In what areas of your life do you feel most in need of God’s grace right now? How can acknowledging your weaknesses help you lean into His grace?
Why do you think it’s important to remember that God’s grace is a gift and not something you can earn? How does this change the way you approach your relationship with God?
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the incredible gift of Your grace. I am reminded today that without it, I would be lost, but through Your love, I am forgiven and made new. Help me to live in the reality of Your grace daily and extend it to those around me, just as You have so freely given it to me. Open my eyes to see where I can reflect Your grace in my relationships, and empower me to show love and forgiveness to others. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Life Application
Reflect on Your Personal Experience of Grace
Take time this week to reflect on moments in your life when you’ve experienced God’s grace. Journal about a time when you received undeserved forgiveness, kindness, or help, either from God or from others. Let this remind you of the constant presence of God’s grace in your life.Extend Grace to Someone Else
Identify someone in your life who needs grace—perhaps a friend, family member, or colleague who has wronged you or is struggling. Instead of focusing on their faults, choose to offer forgiveness or kindness, reflecting the grace that God has given to you.
Don’t Forget
Find a NEW Class or Group to go deeper with this fall
Additional Resources
Discussion Guide Index| Sermon Playback & Video | Spotify Playlist | Church Center App