Knowing the Depths of Me :: Week 3

March 7, 2007

Verses: John 5:24; Romans 8:1; 2 Cor 5:21; Eph 1:6; Exodus 24:7; Deut. 8:1, 6-8; Luke 22:20; Heb 9:15; Galatians 2:19-21; Romans 7:4-6; Ezekial 36:26-27; Hebrews 10:16; Galatians 3:21-26

This week we learned about Law and Grace, and the incredible effect they have on our lives and on our identity.

We learned that acceptance is being welcomed and received without fear of ever being judged, criticized, or rejected. As Christians, we have this acceptance from Christ - though we do not deserve it, in mercy He gives us His acceptance and approval. This is GRACE.

Unfortunately, we do not always embrace this Grace. There are two systems we live under: the Law System, and the Grace System.

The Law System says:
"I have to prove myself in order to be acceptable." - DO to BE.

The Grace System says:
"God has extended to me acceptability." - BE to DO.

The Law is useful, as it motivates us to realize our need for Jesus and salvation. However, if we live under the law system as Christians, we live under the weight of standards and expectations that were met by the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The Law is the Old Covenant, Grace is the New Covenant. In GRACE we have FREEDOM!

Remember -- disappointment is what happens when we feel the failure to meet the expectations of someone else. This can send us on a roller coaster of emotions that will end in self destruction as we constantly try to meet everyone's expectations and live up to unreachable standards. The TRUTH we must cling to here, is that your life is not a roller coaster based on how well you perform, because God has given you GRACE! God is NOT disappointed in you! Jesus died to give you freedom from expectations- freedom from the bondage of the Old Covenant (the Law System).

Students: re-read the verses from this week. Reflect on the TRUTH you find in God's word. Rest in His grace, believing that you have His acceptance. Your Heavenly Father has paid your price. His Grace covers ALL your faults! You do not have to DO anything to meet God's expectations, to gain His acceptance, or to make Him love you! Just abide in Him- just BE. He is so pleased by you, and so proud of you! You meet His expectations. You are accepted by Him! His love for you will NEVER change!

(if you missed Week 2 and would like the workbook, contact me [Ericka] and I’ll get you a copy!)