GRACE WITH ALL WHO LOVE CHRIST

GRACE WITH ALL WHO LOVE CHRIST

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Ephesians 6:21-24

Key Verse: “Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen.” — Ephesians 6:24 (KJV)

Supporting Texts: John 1:14-17; Romans 5:1-2; 1 Corinthians 16:22-23; 2 Corinthians 12:9; Galatians 6:18; Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 2:11-14.

Description: This sermon teaches that God's grace is the divine provision for every believer who sincerely loves Jesus Christ, enabling us to live faithfully, grow spiritually and remain steadfast in our walk with Him.

INTRODUCTION

The grace of God is one of the greatest blessings available to every believer in Jesus Christ. It is God's unmerited favour, His divine assistance and His sustaining power at work in our lives. We are saved by grace, strengthened by grace, taught by grace and enabled by grace to fulfil God's purpose. Without His grace, we cannot successfully live the Christian life or accomplish anything of eternal value.

At the conclusion of his letter to the Ephesians, Apostle Paul offers a remarkable benediction: “Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen.” These words are more than a formal closing greeting. They express Paul's desire that God's grace should continually rest upon those whose love for Christ is genuine. After teaching extensively about our position in Christ, Christian conduct, unity in the Church, family relationships and spiritual warfare, Paul concludes by pointing believers to the grace they need to remain faithful.

This benediction remains relevant to every Christian today. We need God's grace in our homes, ministries, workplaces, relationships and spiritual battles. We need grace to love Christ sincerely, obey His Word, overcome temptation and remain faithful until the end. The Christian life does not begin by grace and continue by human strength; we must depend on God's grace every day. His grace is available to all who genuinely love the Lord Jesus Christ.

1. UNDERSTANDING THE MEANING OF GRACE

To appreciate Paul's final blessing, we must understand what grace means. Grace is not merely a religious expression; it describes God's generous and undeserved favour towards humanity. It is His willingness to bless, forgive, strengthen and work in the lives of those who trust Him.

Grace is also God's divine enablement. It does not only forgive our past; it empowers us to live differently in the present and prepares us for His purpose in the future. Every believer needs grace continually.

a. Grace is God's unmerited favour (Ephesians 2:8-9)

“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” — Ephesians 2:8–9 (KJV)

Grace means receiving what we could never earn by our own efforts. We did not purchase salvation through good works, religious activities or personal achievements. God freely offers salvation through Jesus Christ, and we receive it by faith.

This truth should keep us humble and grateful. Never imagine that your position in Christ is the result of your personal righteousness. You are saved because God is gracious. Therefore, live every day with gratitude for the salvation you have received.

b. Grace is God's divine enablement (2 Corinthians 12:9)

“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness...” — 2 Corinthians 12:9a (KJV)

Grace does not merely bring us into God's family; it strengthens us to fulfil His will. When Paul faced a difficult situation, the Lord assured him that His grace was sufficient. God's grace supplied the strength Paul needed in his weakness.

There are challenges that human strength cannot overcome. There are responsibilities that may appear greater than our abilities. In such moments, depend on God's grace rather than surrendering to fear or discouragement. His strength is sufficient for every assignment He gives you.

c. Grace teaches us to live righteously (Titus 2:11-12)

“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world.” — Titus 2:11–12 (KJV)

God's grace is not permission to continue in sin. It teaches us to reject ungodliness and live in a manner that pleases Him. True grace produces transformation, discipline and godliness.

Do not use grace as an excuse for careless living. Allow God's grace to change your attitudes, desires and behaviour. The grace that saves us also trains us to live for Christ.

d. Grace gives us access to God's presence (Romans 5:1-2)

“Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand...” — Romans 5:1–2a (KJV)

Through Jesus Christ, believers have been brought into a position of favour with God. We no longer approach Him as strangers but as people who have been reconciled to Him through faith.

This access gives us confidence to pray, seek His help and depend on His promises. When you face difficulties, remember that you have access to the Father through Jesus Christ. Draw near to Him with faith and confidence.

Biblical Example: The Apostle Paul (1 Corinthians 15:9-10)

Paul acknowledged that he was unworthy to be called an apostle because he had persecuted the Church. Yet he testified that God's grace made him what he had become and enabled him to labour abundantly. His life demonstrates that grace can transform a person's past and empower that person for a fruitful future.

2. GOD'S GRACE IS AVAILABLE TO ALL WHO LOVE CHRIST

Paul's benediction is addressed to “all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity.” This expression reveals that God's grace is not limited to a particular class, tribe, nationality or social position. Every person who genuinely loves Christ can depend on His grace.

The Church is made up of people from different backgrounds, abilities and experiences, but all believers share one Lord and one source of grace. God's grace is sufficient for every sincere follower of Jesus.

a. Grace is available to every believer (Romans 5:17)

“For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.” — Romans 5:17 (KJV)

God does not reserve His grace for a select few. Through Jesus Christ, believers receive an abundance of grace and the gift of righteousness. His provision is sufficient for everyone who comes to Him by faith.

Do not disqualify yourself because of your background, weakness or previous mistakes. If you have received Christ, you can depend on His grace. Never compare your spiritual journey with another person's experience; trust God to work in your life.

b. Grace is available in every season of life (Hebrews 4:16)

“Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” — Hebrews 4:16 (KJV)

The throne of God is described as the throne of grace. Believers are invited to approach God confidently to receive mercy and timely help. This means that grace is available not only when life is comfortable but also when we are under pressure.

You may be facing financial difficulties, family challenges, ministry responsibilities, sickness or spiritual opposition. Whatever the season, do not withdraw from God. Come to Him in prayer and receive the grace you need for that moment.

c. Grace is sufficient for different assignments (1 Peter 4:10)

“As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” — 1 Peter 4:10 (KJV)

God's grace is described as manifold, meaning that it is expressed in different ways through the gifts and assignments He gives His people. Every believer has a responsibility to use God's gifts faithfully in serving others.

Do not despise the grace God has placed upon your life because your assignment differs from someone else's. Whether you teach, preach, encourage, give, lead or serve quietly, depend on His grace and fulfil your responsibility faithfully.

d. Grace is not limited by human weakness (2 Corinthians 9:8)

“And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work.” — 2 Corinthians 9:8 (KJV)

God is able to make His grace abound towards His people so that they may have what they need to accomplish good works. His provision is not restricted by the limitations that people see.

When you feel inadequate, remember that God's ability is greater than your limitations. Trust Him to supply the wisdom, strength, resources and opportunities necessary for the work He has entrusted to you.

Biblical Example: The Macedonian Churches (2 Corinthians 8:1-5)

Paul testified that the grace of God was evident in the Macedonian churches. Despite their deep poverty and severe trials, they demonstrated remarkable generosity. Their willingness to give themselves first to the Lord showed how God's grace can enable believers to serve beyond what their circumstances might suggest.

3. SINCERE LOVE FOR CHRIST IS THE MARK OF TRUE DISCIPLESHIP

Paul does not simply say, “Grace be with all people.” He specifically identifies those who love the Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. This teaches us that genuine love for Christ is central to Christian identity.

Christianity is not merely a religious profession or outward association with a church. It is a relationship with Jesus Christ that influences our desires, decisions and conduct. Our love for Him must be sincere, consistent and demonstrated through our daily lives.

a. We must love Christ above everything else (Matthew 10:37)

Jesus taught that anyone who loves father, mother, son or daughter more than Him is not worthy of Him. This does not encourage us to neglect our families; rather, it establishes Christ as the supreme priority in our lives.

Our love for Christ must be greater than our attachment to possessions, ambitions, relationships or personal comfort. Nothing should take the place of Jesus in our hearts.

Examine your priorities. Do not allow success, money, pleasure or human approval to become more important to you than the Lord. Give Christ the first place in your life.

b. We must demonstrate our love through obedience (John 14:15)

“If ye love me, keep my commandments.” — John 14:15 (KJV)

Jesus connects love with obedience. Genuine love for Christ is not merely expressed through songs, declarations or emotional experiences. It is demonstrated by our willingness to obey His Word.

If we claim to love Jesus, our conduct must reflect His instructions. Forgive those who offend you, reject dishonest practices, maintain sexual purity and treat others with kindness. Let your obedience provide evidence of your love.

c. We must remain faithful to Christ (John 15:9-10)

Jesus instructed His disciples to continue in His love and explained that they would abide in His love by keeping His commandments. This shows that sincere love is not a temporary feeling but a continuing commitment.

Some people are enthusiastic about Christ when life is easy but become discouraged when they face opposition. True love remains faithful through changing circumstances.

Do not allow disappointment, temptation or persecution to separate you from your commitment to Jesus. Remain steadfast in your relationship with Him.

d. We must love Christ with an undivided heart (James 4:8)

James calls believers to draw near to God and cleanse their hands and purify their hearts. This is a call to wholehearted devotion rather than a divided commitment.

A sincere believer does not reserve one part of life for Christ and another for sinful practices. Our thoughts, words, relationships and ambitions should increasingly come under His lordship.

Reject double-mindedness and spiritual compromise. Give Christ your whole heart and allow Him to govern every area of your life.

Biblical Example: Mary of Bethany (John 12:1–8)

Mary demonstrated her devotion to Jesus by anointing His feet with costly ointment and wiping them with her hair. Her action revealed a heart that valued Christ above material possessions and public opinion. Her example teaches us that sincere love for Jesus is expressed through wholehearted devotion and sacrificial giving.

4. GRACE ENABLES US TO STAND FIRM IN THE CHRISTIAN FAITH

The Christian journey involves challenges, temptations and spiritual opposition. We cannot remain steadfast by relying solely on human determination. We need God's grace to strengthen our faith and keep us faithful.

The preceding verses in Ephesians 6 address the armour of God and the spiritual battle believers face. Paul's final benediction reminds us that, beyond our spiritual responsibilities, we must continually depend on God's grace.

a. Grace strengthens us in difficult times (2 Timothy 2:1)

“Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.” — 2 Timothy 2:1 (KJV)

Paul instructed Timothy to draw strength from the grace found in Christ. The responsibility of ministry and Christian service requires strength that comes from God.

Do not attempt to carry every responsibility through personal effort alone. Depend on the Lord for strength to serve, lead, endure and remain faithful. His grace will sustain you when your own strength is insufficient.

b. Grace helps us overcome temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13)

God is faithful and will not allow His people to be tempted beyond what they are able to bear, but will provide a way of escape so that they may endure it.

Temptation is a reality of Christian life, but believers are not helpless before it. God provides help through His Word, the Holy Spirit and practical ways of escape.

Do not deliberately expose yourself to situations that encourage sin. Depend on God's grace, exercise spiritual discipline and take the way of escape He provides.

c. Grace sustains us in spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:10-11)

Paul commands believers to be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might and to put on the whole armour of God. Spiritual victory depends on the strength God supplies.

The believer must remain watchful, prayerful and grounded in God's Word. Do not face spiritual battles with pride or carelessness. Depend on the Lord, put on His armour and stand firm in faith.

d. Grace keeps us from falling away (Jude 24)

“Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy.” — Jude 24 (KJV)

God is able to preserve His people and bring them safely into His glorious presence. This assurance should encourage us to continue trusting Him and depending on His power.

Do not become overconfident in your own strength. Maintain a close walk with God, take His warnings seriously and remain committed to prayer and obedience. Trust the Lord to keep you as you continue in faith.

Biblical Example: Peter (Luke 22:31-32; John 21:15-17)

Peter failed when he denied Jesus three times, but the Lord restored him and strengthened him for future service. Jesus had prayed that Peter's faith would not fail and instructed him to strengthen his brethren after his restoration. Peter's experience demonstrates that God's grace can restore a repentant believer and empower that person to continue in service.

5. THE EVIDENCE OF A LIFE THAT RECEIVES GOD'S GRACE

God's grace should produce visible results in the life of every believer. Grace is not simply something we talk about; it is God's work within us, changing our character and influencing our conduct.

A person who truly receives and depends on grace should increasingly demonstrate the fruit of a transformed life. Our words, relationships, service and spiritual commitment should testify that God's grace is at work in us.

a. Grace produces humility (1 Corinthians 15:10)

Paul acknowledged that he was what he was by the grace of God. Although he laboured abundantly, he refused to take personal glory for what God had accomplished through him.

Grace teaches us to recognise that everything we have comes from God. Our gifts, opportunities, achievements and ministry accomplishments should make us grateful rather than proud.

Give God the glory for every success. Never look down on others because of your position or achievements. Remain humble and acknowledge the grace of God in your life.

b. Grace produces godly character (Titus 2:11–14)

God's grace teaches believers to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts and to live soberly, righteously and godly. It also calls us to be zealous for good works.

A person who claims to live under grace should not be comfortable with sin. Grace should produce purity, honesty, self-control, kindness and righteousness.

Allow God's grace to influence your private life as much as your public testimony. Let your character reflect the transforming power of Christ.

c. Grace produces generosity and service (2 Corinthians 8:7)

Paul encouraged the Corinthian believers to abound in grace, including the grace of giving. God's grace makes us conscious of the needs of others and willing to serve beyond personal convenience.

A selfish Christian has not fully understood the generosity of God. We have received freely, and we should be willing to give, encourage and support others as God enables us.

Look for opportunities to bless people. Use your resources, gifts and time to advance God's work and demonstrate Christ's love.

d. Grace produces perseverance and spiritual growth (2 Peter 3:18)

“But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.” — 2 Peter 3:18 (KJV)

Peter calls believers to grow in grace and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ. This means that our experience of grace should lead to continuous spiritual development.

Do not remain spiritually stagnant. Continue to study Scripture, pray, fellowship with believers and practise obedience. As you grow in grace, you will become more mature and fruitful in your Christian life.

Biblical Example: The Early Church (Acts 4:32-35)

The early believers demonstrated the transforming influence of God's grace through their unity, generosity and concern for one another. They shared their possessions and ensured that those in need received assistance. Their lives showed that grace produces a community marked by love, sacrifice and practical service.

6. WE MUST CONTINUE IN GRACE UNTIL THE END

Paul's prayer in Ephesians 6:24 is not merely that believers should experience grace at the beginning of their Christian journey. He desires that grace should remain with them. This reminds us that we need God's grace continually, from the day we receive Christ until the day we finish our earthly assignment.

The Christian life is a journey of faith, and we must remain dependent on God throughout it. Yesterday's spiritual experience cannot replace today's fellowship with Christ. We must continue to walk with Him, trust His promises and remain faithful.

a. Begin each day by depending on God's grace (Lamentations 3:22-23)

The mercies of God are new every morning, and His faithfulness is great. Every new day provides another opportunity to depend on His goodness and receive His help.

Do not face each day as though you are sufficient in yourself. Commit your plans, decisions and responsibilities to God. Seek His wisdom and strength before you act.

b. Remain rooted in Christ (Colossians 2:6-7)

Paul encourages believers to walk in Christ, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith. A rooted Christian is not easily moved by every wind of doctrine, temptation or difficulty.

Develop a consistent relationship with Jesus through prayer, Scripture and obedience. Do not allow your spiritual life to depend only on occasional excitement or special programmes. Establish deep roots in Christ.

c. Keep growing through every season (Philippians 1:6)

“Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” — Philippians 1:6 (KJV)

God is committed to completing the good work He has begun in the lives of His people. This gives us confidence to continue growing, even when we recognise areas of weakness.

Do not become discouraged by the fact that you are still growing. Keep responding to God's Word, receive correction and depend on His grace. Allow Him to continue shaping your life.

d. Finish your race faithfully (2 Timothy 4:7-8)

Paul declared that he had fought a good fight, finished his course and kept the faith. His words reveal the importance of perseverance and faithfulness until the end.

It is not enough to begin the Christian journey with enthusiasm; we must remain faithful throughout our lives. Refuse to abandon your faith because of temporary challenges or worldly attractions.

Keep your eyes on Jesus, remain committed to His purpose and trust His grace to sustain you until you finish your course.

Biblical Example: The Apostle Paul (2 Timothy 4:6-8)

At the close of his earthly ministry, Paul could testify that he had fought the good fight, finished his course and kept the faith. His life was marked by hardship, opposition, sacrifice and perseverance, but God's grace sustained him. He reminds us that the goal is not merely to begin well but to remain faithful to Christ until the end.

CONCLUSION

Paul's final prayer in Ephesians 6:24 is a powerful reminder that every believer who sincerely loves the Lord Jesus Christ needs the grace of God. Grace saves us, strengthens us, teaches us, sustains us and enables us to fulfil our divine assignments. It is not a reward for human achievement but God's gracious provision for those who trust in Christ. We must therefore depend on His grace in every area of our lives and allow it to produce genuine transformation in our character and conduct.

Make a fresh commitment to love Jesus sincerely and walk faithfully with Him. Do not depend on your own strength, achievements or abilities. Receive His grace daily, obey His Word, serve others with humility and remain steadfast through every season of life. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you, your family, your ministry and all who sincerely love Him. Amen.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, let Your grace abound in my life in Jesus name.

2. Lord Jesus, help me to love You sincerely and wholeheartedly in Jesus name.

3. Father, strengthen me by Your grace in every difficult situation in Jesus name.

4. Lord, let Your grace empower me to overcome every temptation in Jesus name.

5. Father, transform my character and make me more like Christ in Jesus name.

6. Lord, remove every form of spiritual lukewarmness from my life in Jesus name.

7. Father, help me to serve You faithfully with the gifts You have given me in Jesus name.

8. Lord, let Your grace sustain my family and ministry in Jesus name.

9. Father, keep me steadfast in faith until the end in Jesus name.

10. Lord Jesus, let Your grace remain with all who sincerely love You in Jesus name.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. The grace of God will abound in your life in the mighty name of Jesus.

2. You will receive strength to overcome every challenge in the mighty name of Jesus.

3. Your love for Jesus will remain sincere and unwavering in the mighty name of Jesus.

4. You will not fall away from the faith in the mighty name of Jesus.

5. God's grace will empower you to fulfil your divine assignment in the mighty name of Jesus.

6. Your character will increasingly reflect the nature of Christ in the mighty name of Jesus.

7. You will overcome temptation and stand firm in spiritual warfare in the mighty name of Jesus.

8. Your family and ministry will enjoy the sustaining grace of God in the mighty name of Jesus.

9. You will grow in grace and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ in the mighty name of Jesus.

10. You will finish your Christian race faithfully and receive your eternal reward in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.