Why is acknowledging "the Lord Jesus Christ" essential for receiving grace and peace? Setting the Scene: 1 Corinthians 1:3 “Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” Grace and Peace—What Are We Talking About? • Grace: God’s unearned favor that forgives, saves, and empowers (Ephesians 2:8–9). • Peace: Wholeness, reconciliation with God, and settled inward rest (Romans 5:1; Philippians 4:7). • Scripture presents these two blessings as a package, always sourced in God and mediated through His Son. Why the Lord Jesus Christ Must Be Acknowledged • He is the channel: “Grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” (John 1:17) • He paid the price: “Having made peace through the blood of His cross.” (Colossians 1:19–20) • He grants access: “No one comes to the Father except through Me.” (John 14:6) • He embodies the blessing: “For in Him all the fullness of Deity dwells bodily.” (Colossians 2:9) • Apostolic pattern: Every New Testament epistle links grace and peace directly to Jesus’ name (Romans 1:7; Galatians 1:3; Ephesians 1:2), showing that believers never separate the gift from the Giver. What Happens When We Acknowledge Him? 1. We admit our need—humbling ourselves opens the door for grace (James 4:6). 2. We receive forgiveness—His finished work removes guilt and hostility (Romans 5:10). 3. We enjoy reconciliation—peace is not just a feeling but a restored relationship (2 Corinthians 5:18–19). 4. We walk in new power—grace teaches and enables us to live godly lives (Titus 2:11–12). 5. We rest secure—knowing the Prince of Peace anchors our hearts amid turmoil (John 16:33). Practical Takeaways for Daily Life • Begin each day acknowledging Jesus as Lord; expect fresh grace and peace. • Trace every blessing back to Him—gratitude reinforces dependence. • When sin or anxiety surfaces, return immediately to Christ’s sufficiency (1 John 1:9; 1 Peter 5:7). • Speak the same greeting Paul used—reminding fellow believers where true help resides. Summing It Up Grace and peace do not float in mid-air; they flow from the Father through the Lord Jesus Christ. Acknowledging Him is essential because He alone purchased, embodies, and dispenses these priceless gifts. To know Jesus is to know grace; to rest in Jesus is to rest in peace. |
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