“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”
Ephesians 2:8-9
Salvation is a central theme in Christianity, and understanding its significance is crucial for everyone. It is a gift so we cannot boast because it is by grace and not because of our desires, worthiness, or our good works. Salvation is based on God’s character and nature; He is inherently good and gracious. We see God’s compassion and favour perfectly displayed in Jesus Christ, who willingly sacrificed Himself for us while we were still sinners, setting us free from the bondage of sin and death (Rom 5:8). God the Father is willing and has given us the gift of salvation, Jesus Christ paid the price for it and the Holy Spirit brings it to us by grace through faith. The gift of salvation is not just a ticket to heaven, but a way of life (Acts 17:28; 2 Peter 1:3-4; Gal 2:20).
BENEFITS OF THE GIFT
We are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we also have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God (Rom 5:1-2). We receive the Holy Spirit to help us live a godly life. We are delivered from the penalty and power of sin and receive eternal life in Christ Jesus. The veil that covered our hearts has been removed by believing in Jesus, consequently, we can see, savour, and reflect the glory of God (2 Cor 3: 14-18). Salvation restores us to an intimate and eternal relationship with the Father.
ACCEPTING THE GIFT
God’s grace serves as the foundation of our salvation, while faith acts as the means of salvation. We accept the gift of salvation only through faith. God sent His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life (John 3:16). God chose Jesus to be the only one who can atone for our sins. The Bible says that if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved (Rom 10:9).
Imagine presenting a loved one with a special gift that you put your heart and soul into, yet they never even bothered to open it. The beautifully wrapped gift box sits neglected in their home, untouched. Let us not treat the gift of salvation in the same way by allowing the gift to collect dust in our homes, but rather let’s embrace it, live by it, and share it with others.
If you would like to accept this gift pray the prayer below and believe in your heart:
“Lord Jesus Christ, I admit that I am a sinner, and I ask for Your forgiveness. I believe You died for my sins and rose from the dead. I recognise that salvation is a gift you offer to me because of your great love and kindness, not because of anything I have done. I repent from my sins and accept You as my Lord and Savior.”
Further Study: Romans 5; Titus 2:11-14
Sign up to be notified every time there is a new post!