The Freedom to Stand

Let us look to another aspect we are free to experience within the context of the Unconditional Good News of Jesus Christ, the freedom to stand in grace.  Let us consider Paul’s words in Romans 5:1-2 (ESV).

Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

What an amazingly beautiful picture! We have been justified. Justification takes place when we put our faith in Christ.  This leads to peace with God, as we discussed last week.  But look! We also obtained access or entry into this grace in which we currently stand.

Think of God’s grace, getting what we don’t deserve, as something we have available in such abundant measure that it must overflow and spill onto those around us because we can’t contain it. Grace is something we get from God, we give to others and also something that flavors our spirits, allowing us to be gracious souls.

 It is this grace in which we stand, as a soldiertakes up position to wage battle. Not kneeling or hunched over but upright and planted, head held high. Planted on our faith in Christ which can’t be shaken. Our firm foundation allows us to be steadfast and unwavering in the storms of life.

 Standing in grace is such a beautiful picture.  Such an amazing gift!

So this Unconditional Good News, that God views us differently though our justification in Christ, allows us freedom from performance, condemnation, punishment and fear. This then leaves us free to experience peace with God and to stand in grace.  Such Good News!