How does John 1:17 contrast law and grace in our daily lives? Foundational Verse “For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” (John 1:17) Why the Law Was Given • Reveals God’s holiness and our sinfulness (Romans 3:20) • Sets moral boundaries for society (Exodus 20:1-17) • Serves as a “guardian” leading us to Christ (Galatians 3:24) Limitations of the Law in Daily Life • Can diagnose sin but cannot cure it • Produces external conformity yet leaves the heart unchanged • When treated as a checklist, fosters pride or despair The Arrival of Grace and Truth • Grace: God’s unearned favor, empowering new life (Ephesians 2:8-9) • Truth: the full revelation of God’s character in Christ (John 14:6) • Both are personified in Jesus, not abstract principles Daily Implications—Living Under Grace Freedom from Condemnation – Romans 8:1 reminds us there is “now no condemnation.” – Guilt becomes conviction that drives us to Christ, not self-punishment. Heart Transformation – The Spirit writes God’s law on our hearts (Hebrews 10:16). – Obedience flows from love, not fear (John 14:15). Empowered Obedience – Grace does not lower the standard; it provides power to meet it (Titus 2:11-12). – Good works become fruit, not currency to buy favor. Overflowing Gratitude – Knowing all is a gift, thanksgiving replaces striving (Colossians 3:17). – Generosity, patience, and forgiveness mirror the grace received. Balancing Grace and Truth • Grace without truth becomes permissive; truth without grace becomes crushing. • Jesus embodies both, calling sin what it is while offering complete pardon (John 8:11). Practical Steps to Walk in Grace 1. Begin each day recalling the Gospel—Christ fulfilled the law for you. 2. Confess sin quickly, trusting 1 John 1:9 for cleansing. 3. Depend on the Spirit’s power through prayer and Scripture meditation. 4. Extend to others the same grace you’ve received (Ephesians 4:32). 5. Celebrate obedience as evidence of God’s work, not grounds for boasting (Philippians 2:13). |
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