In what ways can you share the message of grace from Ephesians 2:9? Anchored Truth: What Ephesians 2:9 Says “not by works, so that no one can boast.” Why Grace Matters • Works can’t earn salvation—grace is God’s unearned gift (Ephesians 2:8). • Grace humbles every person and exalts Christ alone (Romans 3:27). • Grace assures believers that their standing with God is secure (Titus 3:5-7). Ways to Share This Grace-Centered Message • Tell Your Story – Explain how you realized you couldn’t save yourself. – Highlight the moment you trusted Christ’s finished work (1 Peter 3:15). – Emphasize freedom from striving and the joy of resting in grace. • Point to Scripture – Pair Ephesians 2:9 with Ephesians 2:8 to show the whole thought. – Use Romans 4:4-5 to underline that faith, not effort, justifies. – Share Galatians 2:21 to show that adding works empties the cross of power. • Celebrate Christ in Everyday Conversation – When compliments come, redirect praise to God’s grace. – When someone feels unworthy, remind them of Romans 5:8—Christ died “while we were still sinners.” – In discussions on morality, contrast human effort with God’s complete provision. • Serve Without Strings – Meet needs generously (Matthew 5:16). – Make it clear the help is a reflection of God’s free gift, not a reward to be earned. – Attach a short note or verbal reminder: “We serve because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19). • Use Creative Platforms – Social media posts highlighting “Grace > Works” with Ephesians 2:9 in the caption. – Artwork, music, or writing that depicts the emptiness of self-reliance and the beauty of divine rescue. – Short videos sharing testimonies or object lessons (e.g., tearing up a “good deeds résumé”). • Disciple Intentionally – Walk with new believers through passages like Colossians 2:13-14. – Encourage memorization of Ephesians 2:8-9. – Model confession and dependence, showing grace is a lifelong foundation. Common Barriers & Gentle Responses • “Surely I must contribute something.” – Share Isaiah 64:6; our righteous acts are “filthy rags.” – Emphasize that good works follow salvation (Ephesians 2:10), they don’t precede it. • “Grace seems unfair.” – Remind that fairness would demand judgment; mercy is God’s loving choice (Psalm 103:10-12). – Illustrate with the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-24). Encouragement to Continue • Keep the spotlight on Christ’s accomplishment, not your delivery. • Trust the Holy Spirit to open hearts as you faithfully present the simple, liberating truth: salvation is “not by works, so that no one can boast.” |
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