THE EXPERIENCE OF GRACE
1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by God’s will, and Timothy our brother:
2 To the saints in Christ at Colossae, who are faithful brothers and sisters. Grace to you and peace from God our Father.
Colossians 1:1-2 (CSB)
The hymn 'Amazing Grace' has been sung across multiple generations. It has been incorporated into modern worship with added tags and verses. The song remains familiar even outside religious contexts. The power of 'Amazing Grace' does not solely lie in John Newton's words but in the grace of the Lord. We sing it joyfully because we have personally experienced God’s grace. The apostle Paul highlights God’s grace as present within the church of Colossae.
God’s Unconditional Love and Favor. Like the church in Colossae, we experience grace but cannot create genuine grace ourselves. Grace is given by God as eternal life—a gift we don’t deserve, can’t earn, and will never force. This act of grace stems from His unconditional love and favor. God’s love isn’t based on our deserving it or being lovable; He loves us despite our flaws. His love is unconditional. As His children, we’re assured that He will never abandon us. This promise is rooted in His character, meaning His love and favor are inherently unconditional and not dependent on us.
God’s Unmerited Love and Favor. The people in Colossae could never be good enough to earn God’s love and favor. Not enough good activities and obedience exist to overcome the human flawed, sinful nature. God’s grace extends as amazing grace because we receive the love and favor of God even when we don’t deserve it. When Paul spoke grace to the church in Colossae, he was reminding them of the amazing nature of God’s love and favor. When we reflect that God allows us to experience unmerited grace, we become overwhelmed by the greatness of God's love and grace.
God’s Uncaused Love and Favor: The church in Colossae could not compel God to show His grace or demand His action. This truth remains valid today: we cannot force or demand God's intervention. Grace by its very nature is unmerited, unconditional, and uncaused. When we receive God's grace, it is because He has chosen to give us this gift—something we could never earn, deserve, or buy. Therefore, grace is an unconditional, undeserved blessing that flows from the Lord to His children.
QUESTIONS
How would you define the amazing nature of God’s grace?
Can you think of a time in your life when God’s amazing grace was experienced?
