”Grace Alone” - 1 Corinthians 15:8-11 & Ephesians 2:1-10 - Dr. Nathan Edwards

How does Grace Alone set us free from fear?

Outline: Three truths about grace alone that secure us in the good news:

I. We are saved wholly undeservedly (Eph 2:1-3) “. . . by nature children of wrath.” (v. 3)

II. We are saved by God's determination (vv. 4-7) “But God, being rich in mercy . . .” (v. 4)

III. We are saved entirely as a gift (vv. 8-10) “We are his workmanship” (v. 10)

Personal Reflection Questions:

1. Have you had a time where you experienced it’s not me holding on to God, but God holding on to me? How did this experience make you more secure in the gospel?

2. Read Ephesians 2:1-3, what phrase of the sinfulness of our world and ourselves most catches your attention and why?

3. “You were dead in trespasses and sins” why is it important to remember Ephesians 2:1-3 is describing all of us? What effect does minimizing our own sin have on understanding the gospel and of having compassion toward the lost?

4. Read Ephesians 2:4-6. What reason does Paul give for why God shows mercy upon sinners? Why is it good news that God’s mercy is not grounded in something about us?

5. If someone were to say they don’t accept the gospel of grace because “God’s grace is unfair” how might you respond?

6. Read Ephesians 2:8-10. Do you struggle with faith being part of God’s grace? Why or why not? Why do you think Paul includes faith as part of God’s grace?

7. Pray for one another to be more aware of God’s grace and our security in His love.