By the Grace of God

In the 16th Century, John Bradford is alleged to have said these words:
"There by the grace of God goes John Bradford." 
It may seem a little strange that he was speaking these words about himself, but actually he was watching a group of prisoners being led to their execution. He recognised the potential for himself to be walking in their shoes. However, he saw the fact that he had been 'saved' as an act of God's GRACE. And I think he is right!

As I have reflected on many things of late, I keep coming back to that simple, yet profound truth. I am where I am, ONLY by the grace of God! Nothing more - nothing less!

Ephesians 2:8-9 - For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. 

Acts 20:24 - However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.

Living in Grace

D3LM3

What do you think?

I am leading a series of Bible Studies at our District Synod over the weekend and I have been given this theme - "Igniting Mission - Breaking Barriers." I would love to have some of your thoughts on this topic if you have a minute. Perhaps I could be so forward to ask you to reflect on these questions and if you can give me your opinion I would value your time.

1. What does Mission (being a Witness for Christ) mean to you?
2. How do you think we can 'Ignite' Mission in our local contexts?
3. What are you currently doing in your Church that you feel has "caught alight" and is being effective for the Gospel?
4. How can we break barriers in our communities through our Witness for Christ?

Thanks for helping out. Please reply to the email address (delmelinscott@hotmail.com) or on the actual blog itself. In the meantime think on this quote:

Michael Green – “God’s church exists not for itself but for the benefit of those who are not yet members …and the church which lives for itself will be sure to die by itself.”

Acts 20:24 (Message) - What matters most to me is to finish what God started: the job the Master Jesus gave me of letting everyone I meet know all about this incredibly extravagant generosity of God.

Living in Grace

D3LM3