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Growing in Grace


Sunday, March 17, 2013
Led by Eric Gintert

Ephesians 4:1-32
  • Grace is given; not earned, bought or attained. It is a gift.
  • Christ earned it that He may give to us.
  • He gave apostles, teachers, pastors, etc. for the perfecting of the saints and edifying of the body that they be not tossed to and fro.
  • Speak with edification that you may minister grace to the hearers.
  • Grieve not the Spirit by going back to the "old man".

2 Peter 3:18
  • Grow in Grace and the knowledge of Jesus Christ.
Greek definition of Grace = the divine influence upon the heart, and it's reflection in the life; including gratitude. Acceptable, benefit, favor, gift, joy, liberality, pleasure, thanks worthy. 

Do we proclaim God's grace in good times or do we proclaim His grace in the good and the bad.

His grace isn't about getting everything we want.

Growing in Grace - Four Stages

1.  The baby stage: Living to be served, but never serves other. Selfish, jealous, etc.
  • 1 Corinthians 3:1-3 - Professing to be born again but never serving God. Not seeking to grow in the Lord
2.  The child stage: Easily puffed up and will take praise from anyone for anything.
  • 1 John 2:12 - Spiritual children who need to grow in maturity.
3.  The young man/woman stage: Have vision for the future and strength to resist the enemy.
  • 1 Corinthians 13:11 - Put away childish things that you used to do as a babe in Christ.
4.  The father/adult stage: Lives in contentment, enjoys an abundant life, lives in peace. (Few will attain it)
  • 1 John 2:13 - The different stages of growth.
  • Romans 5:1 - Justified by faith, peace with God
  • Philippians 4:7 - The peace of God passes all understanding. We don't have to understand God, we just live in peace.
  • 1 Thessalonians 2:19 - Growing in the joy of His presence.
  • 1 Timothy 1:2 - Have grace, mercy, and peace from God
  • Philippians 4:11 - Whatsoever (good or bad) state, being content
  • Philippians 4:13 - Do all thought Christ who strengthens me
  • Philippians 3:13-14 - Forget  the past and reach for the future
  • Romans 8:28 - God works good for those who love Him
  • Ephesians 2:1-8 - Remembering the riches of His mercy in us.

Prayer Requests

Eric G.  -  6mo contract job
Fields Family  -  moving next week
Joel N. - wrestling, traveling
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