The Doctrine Of Grace
"God hath saved us, and called us with an holy
calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and
grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began." II
Timothy 1:9
In these times of great religious error, easy believism,
decisionism, and mass evangelism, I urge you, my
brethren, not to be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, "Hold fast that
form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in
Christ Jesus." In this verse, Paul describes for us the doctrine of grace.
We must reject anything which is contrary to it. Read the verse again, and
grasp its lessons.
1. God Is The Author Of
Salvation. There is not a word in this text about man's morality,
righteousness, or will. It talks about God's salvation, grace, calling, and
purpose. The work of our salvation is the work of the eternal Godhead. It was
planned by God the Father in eternity, accomplished by God the Son at
2. God Saves Sinners In
3. Good Works Have Nothing To Do With Salvation.
"Not according to our
works." Grace and works are like oil end water, they will not mix.
Salvation is either all grace or all work, all God or
all man. "By grace ye are saved."
4. Salvation Is Accomplished According To God's Own Purpose And
Grace. God's eternal purpose and effectual grace are the source, cause,
power, and method of salvation.
5. This Grace Of God Was
Given To Us In Christ Jesus Before The World Began. Salvation is the
gracious gift of God to hell-deserving sinners. It is given to us in Christ. It
was given before the world began. It is not a payment. It is not an offer. It
is not a decision. Salvation is the gift of God!
Don Fortner