LIKE OUR TEACHER Luke 6:40 , "A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher.". Becoming Like the Master The core of Luke 6:40 is the profound idea that as disciples, our ultimate goal is to become like our Teacher, Jesus. This isn't about mere imitation, but a deep, internal transformation that allows us to do the same things He did, empowered by the same Spirit. Think about Jesus's life – His compassion, His wisdom, His unwavering faith, His power over sickness and sin. These weren't just admirable qualities; they were active expressions of God's love and power. As His fully trained disciples, we are called to embody and express those same attributes in our own lives and contexts. The Necessity of Training Just as an apprentice learns from a master craftsman, we, as disciples, undergo a period of training. This isn't a passive process; it requires intentional engagement, discipline, and a willingnes...
Understanding Salvation by Grac e When considering the profound concept of salvation, one cannot overlook the crucial role of grace. Grace is the unmerited favor and love of God extended to humanity. It is through grace that salvation becomes accessible to all, regardless of individual merit or works. A pivotal scripture that encapsulates this truth is found in Ephesians 2:8 : "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God." The Scriptural Basis for Salvation by Grace Grace Through Faith Ephesians 2:8 emphasizes that salvation is a gift from God, not something earned through human effort. This verse highlights the divine generosity and unconditional love that God extends to us, offering salvation freely to those who believe. Purpose and Grace in Christ "He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus be...