GRACE UPON GRACE

Title: GRACE UPON GRACE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text:
John 1:16 (NKJV) – "And of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace."

Supporting Texts:
Romans 5:1-2
2 Corinthians 12:9
Ephesians 1:6-7
Colossians 2:6-7

INTRODUCTION:
The concept of "Grace upon Grace" encapsulates the richness of God’s grace and its overflowing abundance in our lives. Grace is not just a one-time event; it is a continuous gift from God that strengthens, sustains, and transforms us. As we delve into this topic, we will explore how we can receive and experience this divine grace in our daily lives.

1. THE FULLNESS OF GRACE
Understanding the fullness of grace is foundational to experiencing grace upon grace.

a) Definition of Fullness: The fullness of grace refers to the complete and overflowing nature of God’s grace in our lives (John 1:16).

b) Grace in Salvation: Salvation itself is a manifestation of grace, highlighting God’s desire for us to be in relationship with Him (Ephesians 2:8-9).

c) Grace as a Daily Necessity: We need grace not only for salvation but also for our everyday challenges and decisions (Hebrews 4:16).

d) The Overflowing Nature of Grace: God’s grace is abundant and can be poured out continually in various areas of our lives (2 Corinthians 9:8).

e) Biblical Example:
The Apostle Paul experienced God’s grace fully, as evidenced in his letters, where he consistently acknowledged grace as foundational to his ministry (1 Timothy 1:12-14).

2. RECEIVING GRACE UPON GRACE
Receiving grace is an active process that involves faith and openness to God’s work in our lives.

a) The Role of Faith: Faith is the channel through which we receive grace; believing in God's promises activates His grace (Romans 5:1-2).

b) Approaching the Throne of Grace: We are invited to approach God boldly to receive mercy and find grace in times of need (Hebrews 4:16).

c) Humility as a Key: Grace is attracted to humility; when we acknowledge our need for God, His grace is poured out (James 4:6).

d) Continuous Reception: Grace is not a one-time gift but a continuous flow that we must be open to receive (Colossians 2:6-7).

e) Biblical Example:
The woman with the issue of blood demonstrated faith by reaching out to touch Jesus, resulting in her healing—a clear illustration of receiving grace (Mark 5:25-34).

3. LIVING IN GRACE UPON GRACE
Living in grace upon grace transforms our lives and impacts those around us.

a) Transformative Power of Grace: Grace changes us from the inside out, enabling us to live in alignment with God’s will (Titus 2:11-12).

b) Grace in Our Weakness: In our weaknesses, God’s grace is sufficient, giving us strength to overcome challenges (2 Corinthians 12:9).

c) Sharing Grace with Others: As we receive grace, we are called to extend that grace to others, creating a culture of kindness and forgiveness (Ephesians 4:32).

d) Bearing Fruit of Grace: Living in grace leads to spiritual growth and the manifestation of the fruit of the Spirit in our lives (Galatians 5:22-23).

e) Biblical Example:
Joseph exemplified grace in his dealings with his brothers, showing forgiveness and kindness despite their past actions (Genesis 45:4-8).

4. GRACE AND THE CHALLENGES OF LIFE
Even amidst trials, grace remains a sustaining force in our lives.

a) Grace in Suffering: God’s grace supports us during difficult times, assuring us that we are never alone (2 Timothy 1:12).

b) Grace for Endurance: We are empowered to endure hardships through the grace given to us by God (Romans 5:3-4).

c) Transforming Trials into Triumphs: God uses our trials to demonstrate His grace and faithfulness, turning our struggles into testimonies (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).

d) Resting in Grace: In times of uncertainty, we can rest in the assurance that God’s grace will sustain us (Psalm 46:1).

e) Biblical Example:
Job’s story reflects unwavering faith and the sustaining grace of God through immense suffering (Job 1:20-22).

5. THE EXAMPLE OF JESUS
Jesus embodies grace upon grace, showing us how to live and extend grace to others.

a) Jesus as Grace Personified: In Him, we see the fullness of grace and truth (John 1:14).

b) Compassionate Grace: Jesus demonstrated grace through His compassion towards the broken and needy (Matthew 9:36).

c) Extending Forgiveness: His willingness to forgive is a powerful testament to grace, as seen in His interactions with sinners (Luke 7:48-50).

d) Grace in Relationships: Jesus taught us to love one another, exemplifying grace in our relationships (John 13:34).

e) Biblical Example:
The parable of the unmerciful servant illustrates the expectation of extending grace after receiving it (Matthew 18:23-35).

CONCLUSION:
"Grace upon grace" is a profound reminder of God's abundant provision for our lives. It calls us to receive, live, and extend grace in every aspect of our journey. As we embrace this truth, we can experience transformation and empowerment, reflecting Christ’s love to the world around us.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, help me to recognise and appreciate the fullness of Your grace in my life.

2. I ask for an increase in faith to receive the grace You have for me.

3. Father, grant me humility to approach Your throne and receive mercy.

4. Help me to live in a way that reflects Your grace to those around me.

5. I pray for strength in my weaknesses through Your sufficient grace.

6. Lord, empower me to share Your grace generously with others.

7. May I experience Your grace in times of trial and hardship.

8. Help me to bear fruit that glorifies You as a result of Your grace.

9. I declare that I will extend forgiveness and grace to those who have wronged me.

10. Lord, may my life be a testimony of grace upon grace for Your glory!

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:

1. I declare that you are entering into a season of grace upon grace in your life!

2. Every barrier to receiving grace is being removed in the name of Jesus!

3. You will experience an overflow of God’s grace in your relationships and endeavours!

4. The grace you extend to others will bring healing and restoration!

5. You are empowered to rise above challenges through God’s abundant grace!

6. Your testimony will be one of grace, reflecting God’s goodness!

7. You are marked by grace, and it will open doors for you!

8. You will walk in divine favour as you live in grace!

9. Grace will guide your steps and lead you into greater blessings!

10. Your life will be a shining example of grace that draws others to Christ!