It’s impossible to fully understand how deep and genuine God’s love is for us. But how much are we able to accept, experience, and enjoy that love? Dr. Stanley explains how to live confidently in the love and grace of God—spiritual treasures that are ours because of our relationship with Him.
Sermon Outline
Did you know that every believer has unimaginable wealth in the gifts God bestows on His children? In today’s message, Dr. Stanley offers a close look at all that our God has given us through His Son Jesus.
Key Passage: Ephesians 1:3-9
Supporting Passages: John 15:4-5; Romans 3:24; Romans 5:17; Romans 5:20; Romans 8:16-17; Romans 8:29-30; 1 Corinthians 8:9; 2 Corinthians 5:18; Galatians 2:16; Galatians 2:21; Ephesians 2:10; Philippians 3:20; Colossians 1:15-17; Colossians 2:9-10; 1 Timothy 1:12-14; Hebrews 4:16; 1 John 1:6-7
Are you able to truly appreciate the immensity God’s love?
► “God is extravagant when it comes to loving you and me.”
The grace of God is …
His overwhelming kindness toward humanity.
A wealth that is ours because of sour relationship with Christ (Eph. 1:3-9).
The personal possession of every believer.
The characteristics of God’s grace:
Divinely bestowed (v. 3)—Only God can impart these riches.
Freely given (v. 6)—God’s gracious gifts have nothing to do with any merit on our part.
Lavish (vv. 7-8)—God’s grace is superabounding.
Instant—We receive all the riches of grace at salvation, but our capacity to enjoy them grows as we mature in Christ.
Simultaneous—All gifts are provided together at one time.
By the merit and work of Christ (vv. 4-7)—He is the source of all we have.
Eternal—God’s gifts cannot be removed by people, the enemy, or even death.
►“We’re brothers and sisters to the Lord Jesus Christ.”
In the riches of God’s grace, we are …
Placed into His great plan (Rom. 8:29-30).
Redeemed (Eph. 1:7).
Forgiven (1 John 1:6-7).
Justified (Rom. 3:24).
Reconciled (2 Cor. 5:18).
Freed from the Law (Gal. 2:16, 21).
Welcomed to live in union with God (John 15:4-5).
Children and heirs of God, along with Jesus (Rom. 8:16-17; Col. 1:15-17).
Made citizens of heaven (Phil. 3:20).
Sanctified for God’s purposes (Eph. 2:10).
Granted instant access to God’s throne (Heb. 4:16).
Seated in heavenly places with Christ (Eph. 1:6).
Made complete (Col. 2:9-10).
Glorified (Rom. 8:30).
After Watching
In his book God’s Ultimate Purpose: An Exposition of Ephesians 1, pastor David Martyn Lloyd-Jones says, “Our greatest need is to become who we already are in Christ” (emphasis added). We are both “already” perfected in Him and “not yet” finished. How does knowing your completion is guaranteed help you appreciate all that’s yours through God’s grace?
One of the best ways to focus on your blessings is to keep a gratitude journal. Begin one with the riches Dr. Stanley listed today, read the associated verses in context, and record your thoughts. How does the truth you’re exploring impact how you “live and move and exist” in everyday life (Acts 17:28)?
