Forthright Magazine http://forthright.net/ Straight to the Cross Richard Mansel goes to the Bible to answer ... "The Most Important Question." Great for classes, groups, evangelistic studies and individuals. http://richardmansel.com/most-important-question/ COLUMN: LIVING THE FAITH Holy by grace by Richard Mansel, managing editor http://tinyurl.com/cuvoen4 God's grace is powerful beyond human comprehension and the sole source of salvation. Sin separates us from God and creates a gulf that we cannot bridge (Isaiah 59:1-2; Romans 3:10-18; 3:23). Grace allows us to be liberated from the slavery of sin and a destiny in hell (Matthew 25:46). In Romans 5, we find the most comprehensive explanation of salvation. Paul says that by faith we have justification and access to God (Romans 5:1-2). While he seemingly contradicts himself a few verses later, the fuller picture is illuminating. "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:9, NKJV). The shed blood on the cross allowed man to return to God to be justified and reconciled. Christ brought salvation to the world by his sacrifice on the cross (Revelation 5:1-5). Justification and reconciliation are possible by grace, which is through the blood. Grace allows us the opportunity to have faith, so we can be saved (Hebrews 11:6). We cannot do anything to earn grace (Ephesians 2:8-9). In Christ and in his church, we live and labor to glorify Christ because we love him and his church (Ephesians 1:22-23; 3:20-21). The blood of Christ continues to remit our sins as we walk and work in Christ (1 John 1:5; Ephesians 1:7). This shows our love and allegiance to Christ, since we will be judged by our works at judgment (Ephesians 4:1; Revelation 20:11-15). However, in the end, we will still need the grace of God to enter heaven (Luke 17:5-10). “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ” (Ephesians 1:3). By grace, we attain everything a Christian can want. Why would we give that up and walk away (Hebrews 6:4-6; 10:26-29)? Holiness and sanctification are only possible because of grace. Yet, they are maintained by grace and faith. Gratitude for salvation should empower us to walk in them daily. Without the blood of Christ, grace and hope would be meaningless. So, how can we turn our backs on such blessings? Why would we not come to Jesus for salvation today? ---- Read this article online, write your reaction, and read others' comments as well. Click here: http://tinyurl.com/cuvoen4 You can help get the word out. Here's how: http://forthright.net/help/