Today, I want to share a vital message that has the power to transform your life: the nature of grace. For the next few moments, let’s pause and dive into this incredible doctrine from the Word of God, focusing on the book of Romans. Grace, as we will see, is God’s unearned, unlimited favor, extended to us not because of what we have done but because of who He is.

Romans is a rich source of teaching on grace. While books like Galatians address grace amidst struggles and failures, Romans takes a broader, deeper look. It speaks of grace in its purest form—God’s provision for salvation and transformation. Romans reveals how God gives us faith and grace, enabling us to receive Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

I’m also offering my Commentary book on Romans that explores this truth in greater detail. I encourage you to get a copy—get two or three! When you start reading and realize the life-changing truths within, you’ll want to share it with someone else. Let’s study together to understand the beauty of grace.

Grace and Sin

Romans 6:14 says, “For sin shall not have dominion over you, for you are not under law but under grace.” Paul’s words here are powerful. He’s not saying that sin will never be a struggle or that you won’t have moments of failure. Instead, he declares that sin will no longer have dominion over you.

When you are born again, Jesus becomes the one who reigns over your life. He has promised never to leave or forsake you. Even when sin seems to gain temporary control, you can turn to the Lord. By confessing your sins, God is faithful and just to forgive you and cleanse you from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).

Here’s the key: grace doesn’t just help you overcome sin; it empowers you to live free from its control. As you immerse yourself in God’s Word, trust His promises, and rely on the Holy Spirit, you’ll find that sin loses its grip. Over time, you may even look back and realize how far God’s grace has brought you. This isn’t a reason for pride but for profound gratitude to God.

Growing in Grace

The Christian life is a journey of growing in grace. You don’t achieve perfection overnight, but day by day, God works in you to conform you to the image of His Son. As you remain faithful—studying His Word, fellowshipping with believers, and listening to the Holy Spirit—you’ll notice a transformation.

There will come a day when you look back and say, “I can’t remember the last time I was tempted by that sin.” This isn’t because of your strength but because of God’s grace. Sin no longer has dominion over you because you are under grace, not law.

Remember, grace is not a helper to our efforts. It doesn’t complete what we start. Grace replaces our works entirely, building on a foundation laid by God alone.

What Is Grace?

Grace is a concept often misunderstood, so let’s define it clearly:

1. Grace Does Everything
   Grace isn’t a partner to our works—it’s the sole actor. It sets aside our efforts and starts anew on God’s terms.

2. Grace Is Uncaused
   There is nothing within us that prompts God’s grace. It flows from His love and character.

3. Grace Looks to Christ
   We don’t receive grace because of who we are but because of who Jesus is. He is the author of grace, who gave His life for us while we were still sinners.

Grace vs. Law

Romans also helps us understand the difference between grace and law. The law was given to Israel to reveal sin and show the need for a Savior. The sacrifices prescribed under the law pointed to Jesus, the ultimate sacrifice.

• The Law Reveals Sin
  The law shows us that we fall short of God’s standard.

• Grace Provides Salvation
  Where the law condemns, grace redeems.

While the law could only offer a temporary covering for sin, Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross provides eternal forgiveness. His blood, shed once for all, accomplishes what no animal sacrifice ever could.

Here’s an important truth: the law was given to Israel alone, but grace is extended to all nations. The blood of Jesus covers every race, tribe, and tongue, bringing salvation to all who believe.

Near vs. In

Being near to the truth is not the same as being in Christ. Israel was near—they had the law, the prophets, and the promises of God—but that didn’t guarantee salvation. Many people today make a similar mistake. They think that attending church or living in a religious culture is enough. But proximity to the truth doesn’t save you.

Salvation comes only through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. When you confess Him as Lord and Savior, you move from being near to being in.

Living Under Grace

Living under grace doesn’t mean you’ll never face temptation. Sin will still try to assert itself, but the difference is this: grace gives you the power to resist. When you stumble, you can turn to Jesus, who is faithful to forgive and restore you.

Discipleship is the process of growing in grace. It’s about deepening your relationship with God, walking in His Word, and relying on His Spirit. Salvation gets you in, but discipleship brings you close to God’s presence and His purposes for your life.

A Picture of Grace in the Law

The sacrifices of the Old Testament were a foreshadowing of Jesus. They taught that sin required a price—innocent blood had to be shed. Yet, these sacrifices were temporary, repeated again and again.

When Jesus came, He became the perfect sacrifice, once and for all. His blood doesn’t just cover sin; it removes it entirely for those who believe.

An Invitation to Grace

If you haven’t yet accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, now is the time. Grace is not something you earn or deserve. It’s a free gift from God, offered through Jesus Christ.

Pray this simple prayer: “Lord Jesus, I know I cannot save myself. I accept You as my Savior. Thank You for Your grace, which covers my sin and makes me righteous before God.”

Once you are in Christ, God calls you to grow in grace. This means studying His Word, fellowshipping with other believers, and sharing the message of grace with others.

The Beauty of Grace

Let me leave you with this thought: grace is God’s gift to humanity, given freely out of His love. It replaces our efforts, forgives our failures, and empowers us to live righteous lives.

If you’ve already received this gift, share it with others. If you haven’t, don’t wait another moment. Open your heart to Jesus today and experience the transforming power of His grace.