The Abundant Life: Embracing God’s Complete Grace by Faith

Jamie Pantastico writes for Mesa Bible Study

by Jamie Pantastico

On July 21, 2023

wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; 

Ephesians 1:8

 

‘Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, ‘

Ephesians 3:20

 

The abundant life, oh how can we truly put it into words? It’s beyond explanation, yet its essence is found in the complete package of God’s grace. In Ephesians 1:8, we glimpse the riches of His grace poured out upon us, leading to assurance of salvation, eternal security, and His constant presence.

 

Ephesians 1:3 reminds us that God has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in Christ, and Ephesians 1:18 opens our eyes to the hope of His calling and the glorious inheritance awaiting us. The abundant life doesn’t always promise constant happiness, but the joy of the Lord remains steadfast.

 

In Ephesians 3:18, we are encouraged to grasp the vastness of Christ’s love that surpasses all understanding, enabling us to experience the fullness of God. Our circumstances may not always be ideal, but the abundant life is living in the joy of our salvation and constant communion with our Heavenly Father.

 

Even in the midst of trials, as Paul demonstrated in Philippians (remember, Paul was in prison when he wrote Philippians and Ephesians), we can rejoice because “the abundant” life doesn’t depend on material possessions. It is the assurance of our redemption, eternal life, and unhindered access to God’s presence. The wisdom and prudence He grants freely through His word allow us to navigate life’s challenges victoriously.

 

So, if you feel overwhelmed or burdened, remember that the abundant life is not about worldly possessions, or how we feel but it’s the immeasurable richness of God’s grace, the depth of His love, and the unshakable hope in Christ. Embrace His complete grace, and you will find strength, joy, and assurance in every step of your journey. Because His grace is sufficient.

 

Trust in Him, for the abundant life is a gift He longs for you to enjoy fully.

 

Thank you for reading.

Please consider sharing this post on social media.

 

Jamie Pantastico

Mesa Bible Study

Faith, Sine Qua Non

“What is Not Properly Understood can “Not” be Properly Applied”

 

 

 

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What Saith the Scripture?

Most problems in interpreting Bible passages arise from neglecting a passage’s context. The guiding principle of sound interpretation is to take a passage literally. Not maintaining this discipline, interpreting Scripture becomes made up, man’s idea, fantasy, and the passage can mean almost anything. The result is erroneous and ridiculous interpretations.

Another important principle to sound Bible interpretation is to read Scripture “in-time”. In other words, we have to read and study the Bible as a progressive revelation. Not getting ahead of God’s revelation.

God’s plan of redemption for mankind wasn’t revealed all at once to Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, Isaiah, or any of the other old testament prophets. Not even Peter and the eleven were given the full counsel of God. The Lord revealed to each of the aforementioned what they needed at their particular time in Biblical history. A hermeneutical method that does not approach Scripture as a progressive revelation leads to erroneous interpretations.

To be a good bible student one must maintain a literal, grammatical and historical (in-time) hermeneutic. There has been much too much of man’s theology governing Scripture when it is God’s Word alone that reigns over theology.

 

Z

Who's writing?

Identify the author of the book and passage.

Z

Who is the author writing too?

Who is the audience? Yes, all Scripture is for us but not all of Scripture is directed to us our salvation and doctrine (how to live our daily lives). To say all of Scripture is, is erroneous interpretation.

Z

When was the Book or Passage written?

This is necessary to identify the time and historical context.

Z

What were the circumstances when it was written? (what was going on)

Z

What was going on before and after it was written?

What happen before and after the particular Book or Passage you’re reading?

Z

What is the HISTORICAL CONTEXT OF THE VERSE?

Where does the Bible verse fit in Biblical history. Use the answers from the list of these questions to identify the “historical context”.

Z

Are there other passages that the Author has written to help expand on the verse your reading?

Z

Utilize the full counsel of God to illuminate the passage

All of Scripture fits perfectly.

 

The Good News

salvation

Salvation is a FREE GIFT from God. You don’t have to do anything but believe by faith that God sent His only Son Jesus Christ to die for your sins, was buried, and rose from the dead 3 days later.

THE GOOD NEWS

SALVATION

Salvation is a FREE GIFT from God. SALVATION IS BY FAITH ALONE & FAITH IS BELIEVING WHAT GOD SAYS.

  1. God declares all mankind sinners and we all fall short of Glory of God. Romans 3:23
  2. The payment for our sin is death. Romans 6:23
  3. But God…because he loved you so much sent His own Son, Jesus Christ, to die in your place, for your sins, was buried, and rose from the dead three days later. 1 Cor 15:1-42cor 5:21

All God asks is that you believe by faith alone in 1, 2, & 3. That you’re a sinner, separated from God but God sent his Son to die for your sins, was buried & rose again 3 days later.

that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.

Romans 10:9

Do You Believe?

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