How do we know that our acceptance with God is in Christ?

The sermon emphasizes that the believer's standing and acceptance with God is always in Christ (Matthew 17:1). This truth is grounded in the belief that our relationship with God does not depend on our actions or failures but on the completed work of Jesus Christ. As illustrated through the example of Peter, despite his shortcomings, Jesus includes him in the inner circle, demonstrating that God's acceptance is based on Christ's faithfulness, not our own merit. This assurance encourages believers to cling to Christ continually for their salvation and acceptance.