https://www.gracelife.org GraceNotes is a concise quarterly Bible study on the important issues related to salvation by grace and living by grace. They are designed for downloading (pdf available) and copying so they can be used in ministry. No permission is required if they are distributed unedited at no charge. You can receive new GraceNotes by subscribing to our free quarterly GraceLife newsletter. en 2026 GraceLife Ministries Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:12:03 GMT Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:12:03 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=112&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=112&lang=eng The word antinomian means against the law (anti + nomos). The term is often used derogatorily of believers who hold to a dispensational and Free Grace understanding of Scripture. The controversy centers on the meaning of law, its relationship to the Christian life, the relationship of justification to sanctification, and the basis of assurance. Sat, 27 Jun 2026 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=111&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=111&lang=eng Two New Testament passages mention a sin that leads to death, often referred to as the 'sin unto death.' James 5:19-20 and 1 John 5:16-17. In both passages the context and language make it is clear that the authors are addressing believers about the sin of other believers. Wed, 25 Mar 2026 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=110&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=110&lang=eng Hypergrace, sometimes called the modern grace movement or radical grace, strongly emphasizes Jesus Christ’s finished work, grace, and the Epistles while minimalizing the Old Testament and the Gospels. Adherents claim they are restoring the true gospel of grace. But is this the case? Thu, 25 Dec 2025 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=109&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=109&lang=eng What is God’s desire for those saved by grace through faith in Christ? In the Gospels, it is to be a disciple of Jesus Christ on the path to Christlikeness. But in the Epistles, where the words disciple and discipleship are not used, we find a different perspective on God’s desire for believers. Thu, 25 Sep 2025 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=108&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=108&lang=eng In the New Testament, we see that those who misused the law at the expense of grace drew Jesus’ and the Apostle Paul’s harshest criticisms. Legalism is an attitude antithetical to grace. Christians need to understand what legalism is, what forms it takes, and what consequences it brings so that they will not be ensnared by it. Wed, 25 Jun 2025 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=107&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=107&lang=eng Free Grace teaches that salvation is absolutely free. Those who simply believe in the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior, being convinced that He died on the cross for their sins and rose again, have eternal life. But this is a problem for some who derogatorily call this “easy-believism.” Tue, 25 Mar 2025 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=106&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=106&lang=eng This passage is packed with language and theology that has generated various interpretations. These three verses are most easily understood within the flow of the preceding context of verses 8-27, which speaks of the restoration and return of creation to a glorious end with believers ruling with Christ over all creation, and the following context of verses 31-36 which assures believers that nothing can prevent them from realizing this destiny. Verses 28-30 explain how God’s eternal purpose for e... Wed, 25 Dec 2024 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=105&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=105&lang=eng Dismissed. Neglected. Forgotten. These words can describe how many treat the doctrine of the Judgment Seat of Christ (JSOC) in the New Testament. Wed, 25 Sep 2024 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=104&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=104&lang=eng Of Jesus Christ's seven last sayings on the cross, "It is finished!" is surely the most profound. Understanding what Jesus meant with this saying can encourage believers, witness to unbelievers, and clear up bad theology about the gospel of salvation. Sun, 16 Jun 2024 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=103&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=103&lang=eng What does Roman Catholicism (RC) teach about how a person can be saved eternally? The RC view of salvation is derived from their beliefs about grace, justification, and the atonement, but are they biblical? Fri, 01 Mar 2024 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=102&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=102&lang=eng Does faith come from God to a person as a gift, does faith describe a meritorious work that comes from a person, or is faith a person's response to a truth or promise? Fri, 01 Dec 2023 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=101&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=101&lang=eng We are defining Calvinists as those committed to the theology of the five-point TULIP. ...Deterministic Calvinism raises some significant questions. Fri, 01 Sep 2023 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=100&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=100&lang=eng Can a person obtain eternal life by doing good or be justified by keeping the law? Yes, of course—that’s what these verses in Romans say—at least speaking theoretically. Some would argue that these verses teach how one can obtain eternal life or prove they are justified by continuing to do good or obeying the law. But how are these verses used in context and can a person be good enough to satisfy God’s perfect justice? Sun, 25 Jun 2023 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=99&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=99&lang=eng Some believe that salvation can be lost. Considering all that transpires in one's salvation, if it were possible to forfeit that salvation, here's what someone should be told to do. Thu, 01 Jun 2023 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=98&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=98&lang=eng There are two ways to view the rewards to the overcomers in Revelation chapters 2 and 3. The recurring phrase “to him who overcomes” suggests Jesus is not making promises to every person in the church, but only to certain individuals. Though some rewards are a bit enigmatic, there is some biblical evidence that can help us interpret them. Thu, 01 Dec 2022 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=97&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=97&lang=eng In the seven letters to the churches of Revelation chapters 2-3, the overcomers can be seen as either 1) all believers who are promised entrance into the kingdom, or 2) individual believers who overcome trials and are promised rewards in the kingdom and in eternity. The churches and their problems are obviously familiar and thus contemporary with the apostle John, the author, but the exhortations are relevant for all times. Thu, 01 Sep 2022 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=96&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=96&lang=eng These three passages are similar in that they list sins and the consequence of those who commit them. The passages often confuse people. What kind of people do they describe, believers or unbelievers? What is the point of listing these sins for the original readers and for us today? Wed, 01 Jun 2022 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=95&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=95&lang=eng At the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, one of the two criminals who was crucified next to Him was eternally saved. What does his story teach about salvation? Tue, 01 Mar 2022 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=94&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=94&lang=eng Many assume that "perfect" (teleios) refers to total sinlessness Wed, 01 Dec 2021 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=93&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=93&lang=eng In Part 1 (GraceNotes no. 92) we cited historical sources on the meaning of repentance starting in the first century. We will see here that for two thousand years experts have overwhelmingly agreed that repentance is an inner change, a change of heart or mind. As with Part 1, the information below is selected from an article by Jonathan Perrault. Wed, 01 Sep 2021 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=92&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=92&lang=eng The meaning of repentance is a contemporary controversy. When we examine a sampling of quotes from historical sources there is general agreement that repentance is essentially an inner change of mind or heart. The information below is selected from an article by Jonathan Perrault. Tue, 01 Jun 2021 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=91&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=91&lang=eng The fullness of God's grace seems hard to grasp for some. Especially when it is taught in relation to salvation, some raise objections. In \GraceNotes no. 90: Answering Objections to Free Grace Mon, 01 Mar 2021 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=90&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=90&lang=eng Since the gospel was first preached, people have objected to the Free Grace teaching that people are saved by the unconditional grace of God through faith alone in Jesus Christ. Often, objections come from misunderstanding the nature of God's grace and what Free Grace teaches. Sometimes objections are merely parroted from others without much thought. Here's how to answer six common objections to Free Grace teaching about salvation. Tue, 01 Dec 2020 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=89&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=89&lang=eng Grace is not only a theological term that helps us understand how God shares His unconditional love towards us, it is also a moral term that should influence our conduct, especially in ministry. All believers in Christ are called to minister (serve) the body of Christ, but that ministry is most effective when it reflects God's love and grace. As a starting point, we must understand that grace not only saves us, but gives us the privilege of and the ability to minister to others (Rom. 1:5; 1 Cor.... Tue, 01 Sep 2020 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=88&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=88&lang=eng About 2000 years ago, the apostle Paul (with his co-laborer Silas) answered a frightened prison guard's question, "Sirs..." Mon, 01 Jun 2020 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=87&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=87&lang=eng Arminian theology (not Armenian, which is someone from the country of Armenia) is named after its proponent, Dutch theologian Jacob Arminius (1560-1609), who objected to the strong determinism of John Calvin. Arminius died before he could formally present his arguments, but his followers formalized them into five articles in the Remonstrance of 1610. Sun, 01 Mar 2020 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=86&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=86&lang=eng This passage, especially verse 22, raises the questions, who is the apostle Paul addressing?, what does it mean to be \cut off\"? Sun, 01 Dec 2019 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=85&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=85&lang=eng This familiar story depicts God's love for sinners, and indeed that is the main point, but there is much to learn here about God's magnificent grace. In the context, Jesus answers the Pharisees who criticize His love for sinners (Luke 15:2-3) with three stories. The story of the lost son especially illustrates God's love for sinners as an overcoming, amazing, and misunderstood love. Sun, 01 Sep 2019 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=84&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=84&lang=eng Though law is used in various ways in the Bible, The New Testament often uses the term for the Law delivered through Moses. It is important to understand how Christians should relate to the demands of the Mosaic Law. We will look at the nature and purpose of that Law and how it affects Christians. Sat, 01 Jun 2019 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=83&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=83&lang=eng Some who have trouble accepting that eternal salvation is by faith alone insist that repentance (as turning from sins) is also necessary. That is why they claim repentance is in John's Gospel even though the word is not present in verb or noun form (metaneo, metanoia). They argue that the concept of repentance is present in various passages, but their definition and assumptions of repentance in John cannot be supported. Fri, 01 Mar 2019 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=82&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=82&lang=eng A question often heard is \How were people eternally saved in Old Testament days?\" For a more comprehensive perspective Sat, 01 Dec 2018 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=81&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=81&lang=eng Most Bible commentators interpret this passage to say that these people at the Passover did not really believe in Jesus for salvation, therefore Jesus did not commit Himself to them because He knew the unbelieving condition of their hearts. Their faith was defective or insufficient for salvation because it was based only on the signs that Jesus performed and/or they believed only in His name, not His person. Sat, 01 Sep 2018 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=80&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=80&lang=eng In chapters 3 and 4 of Romans, The apostle Paul established beyond dispute that one is eternally justified before God only on the basis of faith alone in Jesus Christ alone. Why, then, does he say in chapter 10 that one must "confess the Lord Jesus" for salvation? Fri, 01 Jun 2018 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=79&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=79&lang=eng There are some who claim the saving message of the gospel is 'Believe in Jesus as the guarantor of eternal life, which can never be lost.' In other words, a person must know, understand, and express agreement with the doctrine of eternal security ... but does a person have to affirm this in order to be saved, or is this an unwarranted addition to salvation by faith alone in Christ alone? Thu, 01 Mar 2018 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=78&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=78&lang=eng Does this passage exhort professing believers to prove that they are true believers, or does it exhort true believers to demonstrate the faith they have? At stake in the first instance is eternal salvation; at stake in the second are eternal rewards. Careful observations answer this question. Fri, 01 Dec 2017 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=77&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=77&lang=eng On October 31, 1517, A Roman Catholic monk named Martin Luther publicly posted his objections to the doctrines of his church. Essentially, Luther had re-discovered the free grace of God obscured through the centuries by man's natural aversion to grace. Now, 500 years later, how is the Protestant church treating the gospel of grace? Fri, 01 Sep 2017 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=76&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=76&lang=eng Is there such a thing as carnal Christians, believers who persist in disobedience to God? Some say no. While conceding that Christians can and do sin, they deny that true believers will persist in sin until the end of their physical lives. Thu, 01 Jun 2017 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=75&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=75&lang=eng John 6:44 points to God's sovereign work that brings people to Jesus Christ, and from the context of John 6, they evidently believe in Him for eternal salvation. Some think this verse teaches that God draws people in such a way that they cannot resist. But would God force His salvation on people against their will? Is God's grace irresistible? Wed, 01 Mar 2017 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=74&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=74&lang=eng An incorrect understanding of justification can corrupt the gospel, undermine the foundation of the Christian life, and make assurance of salvation impossible. Thu, 01 Dec 2016 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=73&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=73&lang=eng Some people say the Free Grace view gives people false and damning assurance on the basis of their profession of faith. After all, they may not have believed with all their heart, turned from all their sins (in their of repentance), or done enough good works. Thu, 01 Sep 2016 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=72&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=72&lang=eng The doctrine of election always provokes a lively discussion among Christians who have a variety of ways to explain it. Wed, 01 Jun 2016 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=71&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=71&lang=eng The biblical record of Israel presents God's unrelenting grace that pursued the prodigal nation in the past and persists into the future. Tue, 01 Mar 2016 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=70&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=70&lang=eng Can an individual recently saved from an occultic background commit a serious sin? Or would that horrendous blunder prove he was never really saved? Tue, 01 Dec 2015 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=69&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=69&lang=eng If we read 2 Peter chapter 2, it is clear that the false prophets and teachers in view are doomed to eternal condemnation. But what about those deceived by them? Tue, 01 Sep 2015 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=68&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=68&lang=eng Many Bible interpreters assume there is only one judgment at the end of the age, a judgment that separates believers from unbelievers. This causes major problems in harmonizing some Scriptures. Mon, 01 Jun 2015 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=67&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=67&lang=eng Theological labels are a convenient way to summarize belief systems. Many labels have become an established part of theological dialogue, like Arminianism, Calvinism, amillennialism, or premillennialism. Many who hear the label 'Free Grace Theology' wonder what it means. Here is a brief summation. Sun, 01 Mar 2015 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=66&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=66&lang=eng A question often asked by those who hold the Free Grace position is Why is Lordship Salvation so popular? Mon, 01 Dec 2014 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=65&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=65&lang=eng When we look at the practical, theological, and biblical objections to this phrase, we may decide to use different language. Mon, 01 Sep 2014 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=64&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=64&lang=eng Some questions often posed about the new birth are: Does regeneration inevitably produce a changed life? Does a changed life therefore prove regeneration? Does a changed life give assurance of regeneration? Sun, 01 Jun 2014 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=63&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=63&lang=eng Some readers assume that Jesus invites Andrew, Peter, James, and John to salvation. Their view requires that salvation is obtained by following Jesus, with the implication that every Christian must be a committed follower. In other words, there is no distinction between being a Christian and being a disciple. Is the call to follow a call to be saved? Sat, 01 Mar 2014 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=62&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=62&lang=eng Some use this passage to say that believers can lose their salvation. Others say that it shows that some who are considered believers prove to be false believers because they did not stick with the gospel. Neither of these views satisfies the details of the passage in its context. Sun, 01 Dec 2013 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=61&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=61&lang=eng This passage (See also Matt. 10:22; Mark 13:13; cf. Luke 21:19) is often used to argue that only those who continue in faith and good works to the end of their lives will receive salvation or prove they were saved. Sun, 01 Sep 2013 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=60&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=60&lang=eng Is there any way a Christian can be 'of the devil,' or could that only refer to unsaved people? Sat, 01 Jun 2013 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=59&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=59&lang=eng If John establishes the fact that Christians sin in chapter 1, how can he say later that Christians do not sin? An incorrect interpretation of these verses has caused many Christians to doubt their salvation. Fri, 01 Mar 2013 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=58&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=58&lang=eng Some say that confession is unnecessary since all the believer's sins are forgiven already. What is the scriptural perspective? Sat, 01 Dec 2012 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=57&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=57&lang=eng The parable of the soils is found in all three Synoptic Gospels (Matt. 13:18-23; Mark 4:2-20; Luke 8:4-15). Our focus will be on Luke's account. In Luke especially, Jesus used this parable to explain the purpose of all parables and to illustrate how people respond to God's truth. Sat, 01 Sep 2012 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=56&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=56&lang=eng Grace is used as an excuse not to confront people. So is it gracious to judge another person? Fri, 01 Jun 2012 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=55&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=55&lang=eng As used here, apostasy refers to a departure from or denial of the Christian faith by someone who once held to it. There are several views about what happens to someone who leaves the faith. Thu, 01 Mar 2012 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=54&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=54&lang=eng What do the branches represent in John 15:6 and what is their fate? Thu, 01 Dec 2011 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=53&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=53&lang=eng It is not uncommon to see this verse used to encourage professing Christians to examine themselves to see if they are genuinely saved. Thu, 01 Sep 2011 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=52&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=52&lang=eng Does this passage teach, as some claim, that a person must be totally surrendered to the Lordship of Jesus Christ in order to be saved? Wed, 01 Jun 2011 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=51&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=51&lang=eng According to a common interpretation, bad behavior proves a person is not saved; good behavior proves a person is saved. Is that what this passage teaches? Tue, 01 Mar 2011 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=50&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=50&lang=eng We know that justification and glorification are by God's grace through faith, not our effort or works. Can we say the same about our present experience of sanctification? Wed, 01 Dec 2010 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=49&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=49&lang=eng Preservation of believers, not perseverance of the saints, is the view taught by God's Word and is consistent with the gospel of salvation by grace. Wed, 01 Sep 2010 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=48&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=48&lang=eng Can we truthfully say to anyone 'Jesus Christ died for your sins'? While many Christians say we can, there are some who disagree. Tue, 01 Jun 2010 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=47&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=47&lang=eng Some Christians use this verse to argue that the faith that saves must be proved by works or it is not genuine. Mon, 01 Mar 2010 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=46&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=46&lang=eng There are some who think that a person must be regenerated (born again) before he or she can believe the gospel. What does the Bible say? Tue, 01 Dec 2009 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=45&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=45&lang=eng Some argue from this that willful or continual sin cannot be forgiven and salvation can be lost, or that those in view of judgment were never really saved to begin with. Tue, 01 Sep 2009 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=44&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=44&lang=eng To those who have been profoundly changed by a clear understanding of God's grace it is often puzzling why more people, unsaved or saved, do not accept that message. Mon, 01 Jun 2009 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=43&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=43&lang=eng How does karma compare to the biblical concept of grace? Sun, 01 Mar 2009 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=42&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=42&lang=eng A person is eternally saved through faith in the gospel of Jesus Christ, but does God give this faith or is it purely a human response? Mon, 01 Dec 2008 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=41&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=41&lang=eng Jesus is Lord. No one who believes the Bible denies that. But what does that mean and how does Christ's lordship apply to our salvation and our Christian life? Mon, 01 Sep 2008 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=40&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=40&lang=eng When sharing the gospel clearly we should have two great concerns. Sun, 01 Jun 2008 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=39&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=39&lang=eng This passage is often used to argue against the doctrine of eternal security. Sat, 01 Mar 2008 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=38&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=38&lang=eng Because the gospel of Jesus Christ is the only message that can save people, we want to be as clear as possible in explaining how someone can have eternal life. Sat, 01 Dec 2007 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=37&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=37&lang=eng Interpreting 1 John is troublesome to some because of statements that appear to be tests or conditions. The prevailing view among commentators is that the purpose of these tests is to determine if someone is saved eternally or not. Sat, 01 Sep 2007 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=36&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=36&lang=eng This well-known verse is often used when presenting the gospel to show that unsaved sinners will pay for their sin with eternal separation from God (death), and that they can escape that fate through the gift of eternal life that Jesus Christ provides. Is that how this verse should be interpreted and applied? Fri, 01 Jun 2007 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=35&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=35&lang=eng Those of us who teach that grace is absolutely free are sometimes accused of teaching license or antinomianism. Thu, 01 Mar 2007 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=34&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=34&lang=eng What then do the three references to fire in the warning judgments (6:8; 10:27; 12:31) mean to believers? Fri, 01 Dec 2006 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=33&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=33&lang=eng This passage says that God has forgiven believers all their trespasses, or sins. Does all include every kind of sin no matter when it was committed? Fri, 01 Sep 2006 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=32&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=32&lang=eng In the New Testament, grace is usually mentioned as something in the past for those who have been saved through faith, or something that can be appropriated in the present for Christian living. Thu, 01 Jun 2006 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=31&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=31&lang=eng Does a person have to be baptized in water in order to have eternal life? Wed, 01 Mar 2006 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=30&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=30&lang=eng A person may wonder if he or she has believed enough to be saved. No wonder - there are those who claim that salvation is given only to those who have enough faith, a full faith, a special faith, etc., implying that one's faith in God's promise of salvation can be insufficient. Thu, 01 Dec 2005 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=29&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=29&lang=eng Many people have the idea that if they do enough good, or don't do too much bad, then God will allow them to enter heaven. In other words, when it comes to obtaining eternal life, they think God grades on a curve. Thu, 01 Sep 2005 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=28&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=28&lang=eng There is every reason to think that those who have believed in Jesus Christ as Savior and are consequently born into God's family will experience a changed life to some degree. Some would say that this changed life is evidenced by good works which proves they are saved. Wed, 01 Jun 2005 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=27&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=27&lang=eng Like Jesus, we must share the truth of grace graciously so that this wonderful message will not be tarnished, undermined, and even contradicted by ungracious words and conduct. How can we be gracious as we seek to proclaim grace? Tue, 01 Mar 2005 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=26&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=26&lang=eng A commonly asked question is whether a born-again believer who commits suicide will still go to heaven. Wed, 01 Dec 2004 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=25&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=25&lang=eng Universal affirmation does not necessarily mean universal agreement about how we are eternally saved. That depends on how one defines grace. When the meaning of grace is changed, the condition for salvation is also changed. Wed, 01 Sep 2004 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=24&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=24&lang=eng Can a person once saved ever lose or forfeit that salvation? Tue, 01 Jun 2004 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=23&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=23&lang=eng Is a disciple merely another name for a Christian who is born into God's family through faith in Jesus Christ, or is a disciple a Christian who meets specific conditions about following Jesus? Mon, 01 Mar 2004 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=22&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=22&lang=eng The meaning of repentance must be determined by usage and context, but any study of repentance must begin with a discussion of the word itself. Mon, 01 Dec 2003 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=21&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=21&lang=eng God has given us Peter as a model of a typical disciple. Disciples today can learn and be encouraged from his example. Mon, 01 Sep 2003 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=20&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=20&lang=eng The major biblical teaching on grace-motivated giving is in 2 Corinthians 8 and 9. Those chapters contain many principles about the motivations, amounts, effects, and rewards of grace giving. Sun, 01 Jun 2003 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=19&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=19&lang=eng Everyone knows somebody who calls himself or herself a Christian, but doesn't act like one. Christians struggle with how to think about these folks. Sat, 01 Mar 2003 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=18&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=18&lang=eng Mark 9:43-50 is one of the most difficult passages in the New Testament. On the surface, it looks like Jesus is teaching that a believer should cut off his or her hand/foot/eye so that he or she will not sin. What is Jesus saying? Sun, 01 Dec 2002 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=17&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=17&lang=eng A church can live - or die - by tradition. Some church traditions are good and helpful: meeting at a certain time, familiar music, or holiday observances. Sun, 01 Sep 2002 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=16&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=16&lang=eng Both believers and unbelievers sometimes express fear that they have committed a sin that is unforgivable. This steals the joy of their salvation. Sat, 01 Jun 2002 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=15&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=15&lang=eng Many find Hebrews a difficult book to interpret. Perhaps the greatest difficulty is in interpreting the five warning passages. Fri, 01 Mar 2002 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=14&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=14&lang=eng What does it mean to fall from grace, especially as that phrase is used in Galatians 5:4? The interpretation of that verse has important implications for the Christian. Sat, 01 Dec 2001 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=13&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=13&lang=eng The misuse of this passage has too often undermined the believer's assurance. Incorrect interpretations usually start with the assumption that the phrase 'to present you holy, blameless, and irreproachable in His sight' means entrance into heaven. Sat, 01 Sep 2001 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=12&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=12&lang=eng By God's grace we are born into His family and by God's grace we are free to grow as His children. Unfortunately, this life of liberty can be lost unless we stand firm in grace. Fri, 01 Jun 2001 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=11&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=11&lang=eng Followers of Lordship Salvation insist that a person is eternally saved not only by believing in Jesus Christ as Savior, but also by committing completely to Him as the Lord or Master of one's life. Thu, 01 Mar 2001 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=10&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=10&lang=eng If a picture is worth a thousand words, then a word picture also has great value for those who study the Bible. These word pictures, called metaphors, can give us great insight into God's truth. Fri, 01 Dec 2000 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=9&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=9&lang=eng The word reward (misthos) comes from the Greek word for pay or wages. While salvation is absolutely free, rewards are clearly earned. Fri, 01 Sep 2000 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=8&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=8&lang=eng Is the Bible one book or many? There is much that makes the Bible diverse. But what ties it together? Thu, 01 Jun 2000 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=7&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=7&lang=eng Sometimes Christians must choose whether or not to participate in certain 'questionable' practices. A questionable issue is a 'gray area' of activity or a choice not directly addressed by the Bible as right or wrong. Wed, 01 Mar 2000 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=6&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=6&lang=eng Spiritual maturity is impossible for believers who have come to doubt their eternal salvation. Yet the lack of assurance is a common problem among Christians and those who call themselves Christians. Wed, 01 Dec 1999 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=5&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=5&lang=eng Christians agree that Jesus directed us to make disciples in Matthew 28:18-20. But making disciples means different things to different people. How can we know when we have made a disciple? Wed, 01 Sep 1999 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=4&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=4&lang=eng Many Bible-believing churches talk about grace. But are they consistent in their practice? Here are some things that should characterize a church that follows the biblical principles of grace. Tue, 01 Jun 1999 18:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=3&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=3&lang=eng Why do we as Christians serve God? Why should we serve God? Many have probably never paused to consider their motives. Mon, 01 Mar 1999 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=2&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=2&lang=eng Does James 2:14 teach that works are a necessary component for salvation? Tue, 01 Dec 1998 19:00:00 GMT https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=1&lang=eng https://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/?id=1&lang=eng We should begin with John to understand how to be saved and examine it closely to discover the condition for salvation. Tue, 01 Sep 1998 18:00:00 GMT