17 September 2025
Paul’s conclusion could not be clearer. “In the same way, then, there is also at the present time a remnant chosen by grace. Now if by grace, then it is not by works; otherwise grace ceases to be grace” (Romans 11:5–6). Grace and works do not mix. As Mark said, “Grace and works are like oil and water. They do not mix. Grace is God’s unmerited favour to those who deserve His wrath. Works is man’s merited effort to earn God’s favour.” That is why salvation is all of grace.
Grace alone means God gets the glory. It means salvation rests not on what you bring, but on what Christ has done. Mark reminded us, “Salvation is all of grace. The theological principle that we are saved by grace alone means God can be faithful to save whosoever He wills. He saves. By grace. Through faith. In Christ. To the glory of God alone.” Your performance cannot secure God’s love. Your failures cannot undo His grace.
This truth humbles us. Mark pressed the point, “Look at your hands. Are they empty? They are. You did not bring anything of worth in your hands to the foot of the cross when you got saved. You are not a part of the remnant because you were smarter. You are not here because you were better. You are here by His unmerited favour.” Grace strips us of pride. It places us low, so we see Christ clearly.
This truth also frees us. Mark declared, “Grace has freed you. The crushing weight of self-justification is lifted. You no longer need to prove your worth. You no longer need to perform for approval. The verdict is in. Not guilty. You have been declared righteous in Christ.” For the man caught in the pressure of deadlines, parenting, and performance reviews, this is life. God’s grace declares your identity before you step into the office or walk into your home.
So pause today. Take five minutes. Thank God that your identity is not built on achievement but on His grace in Christ. Let grace correct your drift back into “works mode.” Let grace humble you and free you.
Question: What are some ways you slip back into “works mode,” and how does grace correct you?
Prayer: Lord, thank You that I am saved by grace alone. Keep me from trying to earn what Christ has already given. Help me rest in Your unmerited favour today. Amen.
Read the sermon notes here.
Watch the sermon here.
This devotional content is not penned by the preacher. It is derived from the sermon notes. We aim to provide bite-sized reflections throughout the week for devotion and reflection.