How do we know that grace is essential for spiritual growth?

Spiritual growth is rooted in the reception of grace. As stated in the sermon, 'you must have grace before you can grow in grace.' This underscores the Reformed understanding that grace is a divine gift; we do not earn it or come to it by our own efforts. Grace must first come to us, as God actively works in our hearts. Without this foundational grace, believers cannot experience true spiritual growth. This grace, given through Christ, enables us to abide in Him and produce spiritual fruit, illustrating the mutual relationship between grace and growth.