In what ways can we extend Jesus' grace to others in our community? The Foundational Verse “The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you.” — 1 Corinthians 16:23 Grace Received, Grace Extended • Paul’s closing benediction reminds every believer that we daily stand in Christ’s unearned favor. • Because grace flows to us, it must also flow through us; it is never meant to be hoarded. • Jesus Himself declared, “Freely you have received; freely give.” — Matthew 10:8 What Grace Looks Like in Everyday Relationships 1. Kind Speech ‑ “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt.” — Colossians 4:6 ‑ Replace sarcasm, gossip, and harshness with encouragement and truth spoken in love. 2. Quick Forgiveness ‑ “Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you.” — Ephesians 4:32 ‑ Refuse to keep score; release grudges before bitterness takes root. 3. Hospitable Hearts ‑ “Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality.” — Romans 12:13 ‑ Open your home, table, and schedule to neighbors, church family, and the marginalized. 4. Bearing Burdens ‑ “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” — Galatians 6:2 ‑ Help with meals, childcare, rides, or simply sit and listen to someone’s pain. 5. Generous Giving ‑ “You know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor.” — 2 Corinthians 8:9 ‑ Support missions, benevolence funds, and community needs with joyful sacrifice. 6. Inclusive Fellowship ‑ “Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you.” — Romans 15:7 ‑ Welcome newcomers, people of different backgrounds, and those often overlooked. Grace That Confronts and Restores • Extending grace is not ignoring sin; it is addressing sin with truth and the desire to restore. • “Brothers, if someone is caught in a trespass, you who are spiritual should restore him with a spirit of gentleness.” — Galatians 6:1 • Speak truth, offer a path back, and walk alongside the repentant. Carrying Grace Beyond Church Walls • Volunteer at local shelters, pregnancy centers, or nursing homes. • Mentor youth, tutor students, or coach teams with a Christ-centered example. • Engage civic matters with humility, praying for leaders while standing for biblical righteousness. Living Streams, Not Reservoirs • Jesus promises, “Whoever believes in Me… rivers of living water will flow from within him.” — John 7:38 • Continual dependence on the Lord through Word and prayer keeps the river flowing. • Each act of grace becomes a testimony that points neighbors to the Source. Summary Christ’s parting gift to us is grace. Paul’s benediction in 1 Corinthians 16:23 nudges us to let that same grace color every conversation, decision, and relationship. As we mirror our Savior’s generosity, forgiveness, and compassion, our communities taste and see that the Lord is good. |
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