In this engaging discussion, Michael Reeves, president and professor of theology at Union School of Theology, unpacks the true meaning of God's grace as contrasted with traditional Roman Catholic views. He explores Martin Luther's groundbreaking insights on salvation through grace alone, emphasizing faith in Christ. Reeves warns against the dangers of 'cheap grace' and highlights the transformative power of authentic grace in believers' lives. His thought-provoking examples challenge listeners to embrace a relationship with Christ and share the message of true grace.
Michael Reeves emphasizes that true grace, as taught by Martin Luther, is a free gift from God, not contingent on human efforts.
The understanding of grace as a relational gift of Christ transforms believers' identity, encouraging righteousness as a natural response to gratitude.
Deep dives
The Transformation of Grace Understanding
Martin Luther's understanding of grace evolved significantly before and after the Reformation. Initially, he taught that while salvation is by grace, it is contingent upon individuals preparing themselves and doing what lies within them. This medieval Roman Catholic perspective viewed grace as a kind of divine assistance that bolstered one's efforts toward holiness, akin to a spiritual energy boost. However, Luther later distinguished his views by asserting that true grace is given freely by God, independent of human merit, thus emphasizing that salvation is achieved solely through faith in Christ.
The Nature of True Grace
Luther's perspective on grace fundamentally changed the concept from a mere 'thing' to a relational understanding of God's kindness. He posited that grace is not something granted abstractly, but rather the personal gift of Christ himself, who embodies righteousness and salvation. This transformative view means that believers receive Christ, who imparts not only salvation but also the power to live righteously. Therefore, the distinction between grace and merely 'grace without Christ' illustrates that accepting God's gift requires engaging with the person of Christ, who brings about true holiness and transformation in the believer's life.
Living Under Grace Alone
Understanding salvation as achieved through grace alone leads to profound implications for Christian living and identity. The assurance of being accepted by God based on Christ's righteousness allows individuals to embrace their new identity without the burden of earning favor through works. This realization fosters a desire for holiness and good works as a natural outpouring of gratitude rather than a means of securing salvation. Consequently, true grace liberates the believer not only from the fear of condemnation but also from the power of sin, encouraging them to live righteously by the transformative influence of Christ in their lives.
According to Roman Catholic teaching, the Lord will give us grace as long as we do our best. Today, Michael Reeves repudiates this view with the true vision of God’s grace presented gloriously in Scripture.
Get Michael Reeves’ teaching series Reformation Truths on DVD, plus lifetime digital access to the messages and study guide, for your donation of any amount: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/3660/reformation-truths Meet Today’s Teacher: Michael Reeves is president and professor of theology at Union School of Theology in the United Kingdom. He is the featured teacher for the Ligonier teaching series The English Reformation and the Puritans. He is author of many books, including The Unquenchable Flame, Delighting in the Trinity, and Rejoice and Tremble. Meet the Host: Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of ministry engagement for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, host of the Ask Ligonier podcast, and a graduate of Presbyterian Theological College in Melbourne, Australia. Nathan joined Ligonier in 2012 and lives in Central Florida with his wife and four children.
Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
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