We continue looking at some of what makes us Lutherans unique. Last week we considered the second of the three “Solas.” The word is Latin for “alone.” The early Lutherans developed three prongs to their theological differences with the Church at that time. They were: Sola Scriptura (Scripture alone), Sola Fide (faith alone) and Sola Gratia (grace alone). This week we consider grace alone.
When I taught confirmation, I always told the students to remember this fact: God does everything, we do nothing and even the little bit that we do is in response to what God has done for us.
In many ways, this sentence captures the essence of “grace alone.” Saint Paul writes in his letter to the Ephesians, “for by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing, it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Just as we said about faith, we cannot “earn” our way to heaven or “earn” points with God. In the life, death and resurrection of Jesus, God gives us the gift of salvation. “Well, you have to do something!” most people think, but you do not…only trust that the promises of God are true.
“Well, God doesn’t willy-nilly save everyone!” The truth is that this grace is available to everyone. Remember that God so loved the world that God gave Jesus and that Jesus once said, “And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” (John 12:32. Jesus was referring to his being lifted up on the cross). Finally, this also means that no one, no one, is beyond the grace and mercy of God. That is Good News indeed!
Blessings in your week!
Pastor Nancy