The Discipline of Grace

Romans 5:20–6:16 KJV 1900

Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord. What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin. Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid. Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?

Text:

Title: Disciplined By Grace

Introduction:

The concept of grace has changed over the years. In many Christian circles today, Grace is the primary excuse given for an attitude of selfishness and indulgence. The culture has corrupted our churches with it’s self-centered, “my truth,” “find your own path,” “do what feels right” philosophies.

In fact the subtitle to the book, “Disciplined By Grace” read “Studies in Christian Conduct.”

God did not intend for grace to be the “all day pass” at the world’s carnival. Grace is a discipline, not a license for depravity.

Note – The differences about grace do not primarily revolve around the matter of salvation by grace. But, rather the work of sanctification…

Illustration – All “Christian” churches (truly) believe salvation is wholly of Grace…

-When we are saved by Grace we are instantly Justified.

-Then there is the work of Sanctification – becoming separated unto God. (Justification removes the guilt and penalty of sin – sanctification removes growth and power of sin.)

Note – is a pivotal passage dealing with Grace. However the chapter is primarily a discussion on the holy life of a believer…vs 22 (We must beware of teachings about grace while de-emphasizing righteous living.)

rom 6 22

Romans 6:22 KJV 1900

But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.

Note – Teachings about grace which de-emphasize righteous living have snared many Christians in the past, and many people in strong churches today are being influenced by false doctrines about grace.

*1st Century Example –

13 For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.

Galatians 5:13 KJV 1900

For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.

Illustration – Dr. McGhee – –

Illustration – Dr. McGhee – – “This section deliveres us from the prevelant idea can do as he pleases. Union with Christ means He is Lord and Master.

“This section delivers us from the prevalent idea that one can do as he pleases. Union with Christ means He is Lord and Master.”

*In this day and age many professing Christians not only want freedom to live their way, but are resentful toward anyone who holds to the belief that Grace should discipline us toward Holiness. (Many times these who claim to be filled with Grace have resorted to referring to conservative churches as legalistic.)

Illustration —

Fundamental Churches are under attack because of the concept of sanctification. The concept of “by their fruits shall ye know them.” Because we stand by the transformation power of the Gospel to take you out of the world and change you into the image of Christ. And that image is more than just attitudes and emotions [expand?], but actions, and standards, and separation from sin. By sticking by the peculiar life we are called to live, by stepping back from the ways of the world, and the expectations of the lost, we find ourselves being called legalists, and judgmental, and “grace-killers.”

Dr. Earnest Pickury, in his booklet, “Are Fundamentalists Legalists?”, “The viewpoint espoused in his writings find a sympathetic audience with fundamentalists who have become bent out of shape with what they view as some of the ------- of Fundamentalist thinking? (Some Fund. Churches are feeling pressure…)

I do not believe that in this church we harbor any hatred of the lost, or even of the misguided, buy I do believe that we hold to the doctrines of Biblical Sanctification, and Spiritual Growth, and that as we draw closer to Jesus, and deeper in our relationship with Him, we become more and more like Him, and in doing so, less and less like the world around us.

We do not hold standards for standards sake. We do not check off a list of righteousness for heavenly kudos. We love and adore a pure and sinless Saviour — and a deep relationship with Him, a daily saturation with His word, a desire to be an effective gospel witness, and a life lived by walking in the Spirit will naturally develop a “peculiar people, zealous of good works.”

Note – Why this attitude toward Fundamental churches?

Factors Within Fundamentalism – Wide-eyed fundamentalists (every idea since the 1970s is bad)

1) Some Fundamental churches lack balance – love is not seen – (Past Discerning and too hypercritical. Not willing to deal with people personally, and instead deal with people through policies)

2) Some Fundamental churches lack scripture foundation for standards. (Because we say so, is never a good answer)

Factors Outside Fundamentalism –

1) The world is becoming more evil

1 Peter 4:1–6 KJV 1900

Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God. For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries: Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you: Who shall give account to him that is ready to judge the quick and the dead. For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.

1 Peter 4:4 KJV 1900

Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you:

Turn –

2) Evangelical churches are loosening – our position is very salty – and stings

2) Evangelical churches are loosening – our position is very salty – and stings

Illustration –

Church growth movement (by any means necessary)

Social drinking

Ecumenicism

Rebellion against authority

Rock music

3) Society is generally in rebellion toward authority – – Proud, disobedient, high-minded.

3) Society is generally in rebellion toward authority – – Proud, disobedient, high-minded.

2 Timothy 3:1–5 KJV 1900

This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

Swindoll – Message grace to let people be –

Illustration – Smoking, forgiven – Rock music

Note – Tonight, we want to discover what it means to be UNDER GRACE – If I am controlled by Grace will I become more or less holy?

Sin is dangerous, and it always leads in a downward spiral.

James 1:15 KJV 1900

Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.

Sanctification is an ongoing process:

James 1:25 KJV 1900

But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.

Are the words Perfect Law of Liberty a contradiction or can they co-exist? Let’s begin our overview – “If I am under grace, I will…..

Are the words Perfect Law of Liberty a contradiction or can they co-exist? Let’s begin our overview – “If I am under grace, I will…..

Identify With Christ

Crucified With Christ

Romans 6:3 KJV 1900

Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?

“When He died, I died.”

Note – Many Christians are digging up the old life…

We are to find our NEW identity in Him…Not a beer or dance hall or club

2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV 1900

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

We have “put off the old man and his deeds.” Don’t go back to the life you were saved out of, don’t long for the ungodly lifestyle that left you hopeless and afraid and depressed and let down time and time again.

Resurrected With Christ

A saved man can experience new appetites – we are seated with Him in the heavenly places

Ephesians 2:6 KJV 1900

And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:

Colossians 3:1–3 KJV 1900

If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.

(Identify with Christ)

6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:

(Identify with Christ)

Die To Sin

Romans 6:2 KJV 1900

God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?

Romans 6:1 KJV 1900

What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?

rom 6 11-1

vs 2,11

Romans 6:11–14 KJV 1900

Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.

Note – Reckon – Account, estimate, impute to God’s account

Note – If we are focused on being alive to self over Christ – we are missing the purpose of Grace

Note – Reckoning ourselves dead to sin involves establishing what is right and wrong

Note – What will I abstain from?

Note – Modern day Grace teachers say – to tell anyone what is right or wrong is not a pastor’s or anyone’s job.

Note – The challenge facing Pastors is incredible!

*Should the church even have a member convenant anymore?

*Should Sunday School teachers be held to higher standards?

*Should a choir have dress and conduct guidelines?

Many are giving in to simple peer pressure!

Many are giving in!

Do Rules & Restrictions Rob Us of Joy? We are told that man-made rules and restrictions, passed off as biblical, become “joy-killers.” Those who defend standards of living which they believe to be based upon Scriptural principles are guilty of being legalists.

In , Paul is not dealing with “rules” but with “sin.” We are not to yield to the desires of the flesh simply because we are now living under grace and not under law.

In this passage Paul is not dealing with “rules” but with “sin.” We are not to yield to the desires of the flesh simply because we are now living under grace and not under law. Through Christ’s death we have been given the power to live victoriously over the constant tug of our old nature (v. 6). Since we died to our old sin nature in Christ, we are to “reckon” (count upon, accept by faith) ourselves to be “dead indeed unto sin.” (v. 11)

Through Christ’s death we have been given the power to live victoriously over the constant tug of our old nature (v. 6).

Romans 6:6 KJV 1900

Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.

Since we died to our old sin nature in Christ, we are to “reckon” (count upon, accept by faith) ourselves to be “dead indeed unto sin.” (v. 11)

Romans 6:11 KJV 1900

Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.

It is apparent by a study of the passage that Paul is not teaching that believers are free from all restrictions upon their lives. The very fact that we are “dead unto sin” means that there are some things we ought not to do. Our “members” [parts of our body] are to be yielded to God as “instruments of righteousness” (v. 13)

Romans 6:13 KJV 1900

Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.

“Righteousness” is an inhibiting word, a narrowing word, a restrictive word. While Paul teaches us that we are freed from the power of sin, he also reminds us that we are “servants [slaves] to righteousness.” (v.18)

Romans 6:18 KJV 1900

Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.

As Christ’s slaves we are restricted by the wishes of our Master. We are “slaves to God” (v. 22)

Romans 6:22 KJV 1900

But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.

and as such are to aim toward “holiness.” (vs. 19,20)

Romans 6:19–20 KJV 1900

I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness. For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness.

It is this element of “holiness” which is conspicuously absent in modern evangelical churches. Holiness is (or should be) the outgrowth of grace. Today’s modern churches treat the concept of grace as liberation from all (or most) restrictions that have normally been associated with the practice of the Christian faith.

(Identify with Christ)

(Die to Sin)

Yield To God

Romans 6:13 KJV 1900

Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.

vs 13

Note – Yield = 5 times in this section

Note – Yield = complete surrender – “based on the work that Christ has done – we completely yield.”

Why? – In Response to Grace!

Illustration – I do not refrain from wicked movies because of law – but because of grace – under grace I am compelled to abstain from anything that would grieve Him – () Quench not the Spirit

THE FACT THAT WE ARE SAVED BY GRACE DOES NOT GIVE US AN EXCUSE TO SIN, BUT A REASON TO OBEY.

Note – Whatever you yield yourself to becomes your master – so yield to God!

Note – The function of grace is not only to liberate but to enslave us to Christ. – James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ — Why? Because of Grace!

James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ — Why? Because of Grace!

The Holy Bible: King James Version. (2009). (Electronic Edition of the 1900 Authorized Version., ). Bellingham, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc.– Why? Because of Grace!

The Discipline Of Grace –

Modern Christians, in championing their misinterpretation of grace, seem to behave as if they were throwing off the shackles of an oppressor, but why do they feel that way in the first place?

I was raised in a strict enough home. I attended a Christian college that would be viewed as having very restrictive rules. I have worked in churches with high standards, and as pastor have preached high standards of conduct for members and leaders. In my Christian life, I have never felt that I was in bondage to any human nor misused. I have never felt uneasy under “rules” or “restrictions.”

It is interesting that in recent years this seems to have become a problem for some. Why? I believe it is because of the tremendous pressure of the wicked age in which we live.

Holy, godly, and separated living is no longer “in style.” It is viewed as “old-fashioned” and a “bother.” We are in a day and age where even the most basic of ideas, marriage between a man and a woman, gender being male or female, are being constantly adjusted and reevaluated by our culture. In some churches, and among certain Christians, God’s grace is being used by some as a way by which to allow Christians to do things they have not done before with the idea that it is perfectly acceptable. Some Christian leaders and their followers are “caving in” to the spirit of the age.

And now, having seen this movement growing for a decade or two, we are seeing the fruit of it, as men and women who have been viewed as great Christian leaders, writers, and singers of our day are completely abandoning and publically denouncing their faith, and the teachings of the Bible, and returning to the ways of the world, apologizing for ever holding to the Bible in the first place.

While it is certainly true that grace liberates us, it is equally true that grace enslaves us. If this is not so, then James was terribly mistaken when he introduced himself as “James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Ja. 1:1) The New Testament is not all about what we can do, but it is also about what we cannot do while walking in the Spirit. The “grace awakening” emphasis neglects this aspect of grace.

Note – Grace teaches to deny ungodliness.

Titus 2:11–12 KJV 1900

For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;

Conclusion –

Conclusion – I am convinced we must not only celebrate the liberation of grace, but also the purification of grace.

I am convinced we must not only celebrate the liberation of grace, but also the purification of grace.

I pity Christians who determine to loose themselves from supposed “bondage” or “control” – they will find their new found freedom to lead to further bondage and their pride will never let them admit it.

And it always strikes me as peculiar that those that claim to be champions of grace are some of the most critical and judgmental people I know.

“control” – they will find their new found freedom to lead to further bondage and their pride will never let them admit it.

Illustration – Prodigal Son — indulged himself until he came to the end of himself.

Note – It is Possible – and It is Biblical to live under grace and hold to personal standards of conduct at the same time!

Finally, remember that:

Romans 14:7 KJV 1900

For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself.

We do have liberty - but we also have responsibility to a future generation.

As we saw for 2 years in 1 Corinthians – We do have liberty - but we also have responsibility to a future generation.