MEP - Incapable

April 6 @ Grace Community Church (Brent Detwiler)

Text: Ephesians 2:1-10

Well, it was certainly a memorable start. Grace Community Church of Mooresville/Kannapolis/Davidson/Iredell/Mecklenburg/Rowan met for the first time yesterday. Amidst the Sunday School check-in at the stable, the well-used but sufficient sound system, and the call to 'bring your own chairs' since the order shipment didn't arrive in time, we had many lasting images. Priscilla noted to me that she felt like we were going to church in the pioneer era. It did have a unique feel to it. But diving into gospel-centered lyrics and a cross-centered message was wonderfully familiar.

As a family, we have recently been reviewing Bible passages on the topic of salvation. As we summarized Ephesians 2:8-9, we noted that God is the initiator and even provides for our response. We had the privilege yesterday of hearing this passage in the context of the first ten verses of chapter 2 of Paul's letter to the church at Ephesus. The one thought that has been echoing in my mind is the humbling truth that we are incapable of saving ourselves. Lots of 'not's': NOT of yourselves, NOT a result of works, NO ONE may boast. Salvation is all of Christ. God saves us BY grace, THROUGH faith and FOR His work.

As one who is incapable, I am filled all the more with gratitude for God's amazing grace. All God's best!