The sermon "Electing Grace" by Mike McInnis focuses on the doctrine of divine election and its implications for the believer's life and community. McInnis argues that the election of the saints, as evidenced by their faith, love, and patience, is observable and serves as an encouragement among brethren. He references 2 Thessalonians 2:13-15, emphasizing that God has chosen believers from the beginning for salvation and sanctification through the Holy Spirit, which in turn enables a labor of love and genuine faith. The practical significance lies in the communal aspect of faith, where believers strengthen one another by sharing the visible fruits of election, thus highlighting their dependence on God's grace rather than their works. The sermon ultimately reaffirms key Reformed doctrines such as total depravity and the sovereignty of God in the election process.
Key Quotes
“The election of the saints can more readily be observed by their brethren than it can be by themselves.”
“Religion can produce all sorts and extents of labor. Yet only the Spirit of God can produce a labor of love.”
“The Lord is faithful to keep his children from falling. He causes patience to have its perfect work in those whom he loves and calls.”
“May the Lord of electing grace make us to shine as lights in a dark world by the work of his Spirit in us.”
The Bible teaches that God has chosen certain individuals for salvation from before time began.
The concept of election is rooted in Scripture, particularly in passages like 2 Thessalonians 2:13, which affirms that God has chosen believers to salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth. This doctrine emphasizes God's sovereignty in salvation, indicating that His choice is not based on any foreseen merit or action on our part but solely on His grace and purpose. As articulated in Ephesians 1:4-5, believers are chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world, underscoring the profound mystery and grace inherent in God's electing love.
2 Thessalonians 2:13, Ephesians 1:4-5
The evidence of being among the elect is seen in our faith, love, and hope demonstrated through good works.
Knowing one's election involves observing the work of the Holy Spirit in one's life, particularly through the fruits of faith, love, and endurance. As Paul notes in his letter, he recognized the election of the Thessalonians through their work of faith and labor of love. These characteristics serve as visible signs of God's saving grace at work in our lives. Additionally, in Philippians 2:13, we are reminded that it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure, thus reinforcing that true faith and love are divinely produced and serve as evidence of our election.
1 Thessalonians 1:3, Philippians 2:13
Understanding God's grace is crucial as it assures us of our salvation and motivates our service and worship.
God's grace is fundamental to the Christian faith; it is by grace that we are saved, through faith, and this is not of ourselves but a gift from God (Ephesians 2:8-9). Recognizing this grace fosters humility, as it reminds us that our salvation is not based on our own efforts but on Christ's sacrificial work on the cross. Furthermore, understanding and embracing this grace compels us to live in a manner that honors God, producing the good works that He has prepared for us to walk in (Ephesians 2:10). Thus, grace becomes the foundation for our love and service to God and others, encouraging a true and vibrant Christian life.
Ephesians 2:8-9, Ephesians 2:10
'Labor of love' refers to selfless acts done for the glory of God and the well-being of others, stemming from genuine faith.
In the Christian context, a 'labor of love' is an expression of active faith that seeks to serve others without seeking recognition or reward. This concept is drawn from 1 Thessalonians 1:3, where Paul acknowledges the Thessalonians' labor as not merely work but born out of love. True Christian love manifests itself in actions that glorify God, as seen in 1 Peter 1:22, which encourages believers to love one another earnestly from a pure heart. Such labor is empowered by the Holy Spirit and reflects the transformative work of God's grace in the lives of believers. This labor is a response to the immense love and grace that God has shown us, prompting us to extend that same love to others.
1 Thessalonians 1:3, 1 Peter 1:22
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