Great grace
It seems to me that the infant, first century church learned a lot about itself through its experiences, both good and bad. Most obvious is the bad; namely, that racial tension between Jewish and Gentile Christians developed (Acts 10-15; Romans 1-2; 14-15). The most astounding of the good developed prior to the ensuing racial tensions.
Take, for instance, the manifestation of agape one for another in Acts 2-4. In fact, the essence of the good is expressly summarized by Luke himself,
Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things that belonged to him was his own, but they had everything in common. And with great power the apostles were giving their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. There was not a needy person among them, for as many as were owners of lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold and laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need. Acts 4:32-35, ESV.
What was responsible for sacrifice of that magnitude? The answer lies in the “great grace” that “was upon them all.” Kindness manifested through benevolent action was the embodiment of God’s grace in action (2 Corinthians 8:1ff).
The grace we receive from God becomes a catalyst for us to offer the same (1 Peter 2:1-3). Our growth in grace (2 Peter 3:18) is manifested through the actions of the Christian graces (2 Peter 1:5ff). As recipients of God’s grace, we become the bestowers thereof.
Can it be said that “great grace” is upon us?
douglasryoung.net
Keep searching Doug, maybe you will find the peace you seem to be looking for…..who knows, it may be in blogs, or maybe being popular and important will make you happy, or it may be fighting against truth and/or re-arranging it to fit yourself! Something should work. If all else fails, try pleasing God rather than man by preaching the exact truth, and forgetting self!
Bill,
You left this yesterday in a comment to another post. No need to duplicate.
Doug
OK Doug….just trying to help you settle down, and simply preach the whole word. That is what the world needs….not OUR thoughts and wild imaginations….philosophical writings can never replace the word of God with true believers. The truth, whole truth, and nothing but the truth will save us. Mans words, beliefs, and thoughts mean nothing to our salvation. Jesus said…THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE….It is plain black and white Doug.
We all have to flee youthful lusts, and strive to follow THE WORD.
By the way Doug….I know you have read this before..I believe it….don’t you…
Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. – - Ecc. 12:13
Bill,
No need to flatter yourself. You have no need to settle me down. I was trying to prevent another debacle like at Jason’s blog.
As for my fear of God, I know how great my fear of God is. What you might think doesn’t matter.
Doug
2 Corinthians 13:5
Just wanted you to know I see Christ in you daily by your actions and your preaching of the word. The Bible teaches us that God blesses those who serve him faithfully. It is obvious to me He has blessed you and our family because of your desire to please him and grow in His word. Even when nay-sayers come, pls just remember how God has showered us with His love. I thank God every night for allowing me to be a part of your life.-Tisha