We have come to our final sermon in our Advent Series: Christmas in the Doctrines of Grace. So far, we have explored from scriptures what God has done from eternity past and how he applies it to us in salvation. But what happens now that we are in Christ? How will we make it to the end when we see Jesus face to face? This biblical doctrine shows us that those God has accepted in Christ can neither totally nor finally fall from God’s grace. They will certainly persevere in grace to the end and be eternally saved, because the gifts and callings of God cannot be revoked.
John 3:1-8 // Irresistible Grace
What is the biblical doctrine of Irresistible Grace: At God’s appointed time, He applies the finished work of Jesus to those God the Father has predestined to life. The Holy Spirit renews their mind and heart, gives them new life, and effectually draws them to Jesus Christ in such a way that by grace and through faith they come to Jesus freely and willingly.
John 10 // Perfect Atonement
The doctrine of Perfect Atonement (also commonly referred to as Limited or Definite Atonement) answers the question: What was the original purpose of God in sending Christ into the world to die on the cross? Was the Father’s purpose to send His Son to die on the cross to make salvation possible? Or did God have a plan of salvation by which, according to the riches of his grace, he designed the atonement to ensure the definitive and perfect salvation of his people?
Ephesians 1:3-6 // Unconditional Election
In Ephesians 1:3-6, Paul reminds us that God’s children were chosen before the creation of the world to be his through Christ. God did this as he does all things, for his glory. It is essential for God’s people to understand unconditional election so we can properly grasp the good news of Christ’s redemption.
Romans 3:9-18 // Total Depravity
Romans 3 provides an honest and brutal assessment of the human condition. According to Paul, we are not merely decent people who sometimes do bad things. Instead, we are wretched sinners who have turned away from God. It is essential for God’s people to understand the bad news of depravity so we can properly grasp the good news of Christ’s redemption.