In what ways can we recognize God's grace in our community?

The Grace Barnabas Saw in Antioch

Acts 11:23 — “When he arrived and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with devoted hearts.”

- Barnabas “saw” something tangible. Grace was visible, not abstract.

- What he witnessed stirred joy and a call to perseverance.

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Marks of Grace Then—and Now

Lives transformed

- 2 Corinthians 5:17 — new creations, old ways gone.

- Addictions broken, marriages healed, character reshaped.

Overflowing love

- John 13:35 — disciples identified by love.

- Practical care for widows, single parents, refugees, the unborn.

Cross-cultural unity

- Ephesians 2:14 — Christ “has made both groups one.”

- Fellowship across ethnicity, class, age, political preference.

Generous giving

- 2 Corinthians 8:1-2 — grace produced “rich generosity.”

- Time, talent, and treasure shared without compulsion.

Joyful worship

- Philippians 4:4 — constant rejoicing.

- Eager singing, heartfelt testimonies, contagious gratitude.

Bold gospel witness

- Acts 4:33 — “abundant grace was upon them all.”

- Neighbors hearing about Jesus, baptisms multiplying (Acts 2:47).

Holy living

- Titus 2:11-12 — grace teaches us to say “no” to ungodliness.

- Integrity in business, purity in relationships, honesty in speech.

Spiritual gifts in motion

- 1 Peter 4:10 — grace stewarded through gifts.

- Teaching, mercy, administration, hospitality operating for the common good.

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How to Spot God’s Grace in Your Community

1. Look for fruit, not flash

- Galatians 5:22-23 traits flourishing in ordinary believers.

2. Trace the source

- Ephesians 2:8-10 reminds us every good work originates in saving grace.

3. Notice the unlikely

- Hardened sinners softened; divided groups reconciled; scarce resources multiplied.

4. Measure the perseverance

- Ongoing faithfulness under trial signals sustaining grace (James 1:12).

5. Listen for Christ-centered praise

- When glory goes to Jesus, grace is on display (1 Corinthians 1:31).

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Respond Like Barnabas

- Rejoice: celebrate openly when you see grace at work.

- Encourage: urge believers to “remain true to the Lord with devoted hearts.”

- Join in: let visible grace move you to deeper commitment and service.

Grace recognized becomes grace multiplied.