The meeting of Grace Christian Church. We meet in person and stream services every Sunday at 10:30 AM EST in Manalapan, New Jersey.
Have you ever pondered, dear seeker, what it means to fully grasp the "Finished Work of the Cross," a phrase echoing through Christian circles as a testament to Christ’s death and resurrection (John 19:30)? This work completes God’s plan to atone for our sins, offering salvation to those who believe and repent (Romans 10:9-10, 1 John 1:9). Yet, as Romans 5 reveals, it extends beyond initial forgiveness to a life of spiritual growth, countering the evil one’s deceptions that pull us toward self-reliance and law over faith (Matthew 13:18-23, Galatians 3:3). Reflect: How might understanding this truth align us with God’s will (Psalm 119:105)?
The text highlights four transformative truths from Romans 5, grounded in Scripture:
1. **Standing Forever in Grace (Romans 5:1-2):** Through faith, we are justified and stand firmly in God’s unmerited favor, unshaken by sin. Grace empowers us to overcome, not indulge, as Titus 2:11-12 teaches. Is this not a call to rest in God’s steadfast love (Psalm 36:7)?
2. **God’s Love in Our Hearts (Romans 5:5b):** The Holy Spirit pours God’s unconditional agape love into us permanently, free from the fluctuations of worldly affection. Reflect: How does this assure us of our identity in Christ (1 John 4:16)?
3. **Reconciled to God (Romans 5:10):** Christ’s death restores us to God, breaking sin’s dominion and granting a ministry of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18). Might this restoration inspire us to share His peace with others (Matthew 5:9)?
4. **Reign in Life (Romans 5:17):** Believers, made righteous, wield Christ’s resurrection power to reign over evil, alive in Him (Revelation 5:10). How can we exercise this authority to glorify God (Ephesians 2:10)?
These truths, revealed through Romans 5-8, urge us to seek the Spirit’s guidance (1 John 2:27) and bear fruit, resisting the enemy’s lies. As we gather today, September 7, 2025, at 2:09 PM EDT, consider: How has this work shaped your walk with God? Explore more at njgrace.org.
**Prayer Prompt:**
Lord, open my heart to the Finished Work of the Cross. Reveal Your grace, love, reconciliation, and power within me. Guard me from deception, and help me bear fruit for Your glory (John 15:8). Amen.
