We face many important questions as Christians. One in particular is how God’s grace operates in salvation. The 32nd question of this catechism sparks meaningful reflection and encourages believers to discover the depth of God’s grace as described in the second covenant.
The catechism poses the question, “How is the grace of God manifested in the second covenant?” The response beautifully summarizes our core beliefs: “The grace of God is manifested in the second covenant, in that he freely provideth and offereth to sinners a Mediator, and life and salvation by him; and, requiring faith as the condition to interest them in him, promiseth and giveth his Holy Spirit to all his elect, to work in them that faith, with all other saving graces; and to enable them unto all holy obedience, as the evidence of the truth of their faith and thankfulness to God, and as the way which he hath appointed them to salvation.”
This rich understanding of grace provides a comprehensive view of salvation, encompassing regeneration, justification, and sanctification—three vital components that emerge from God’s gracious act toward humanity. We will explore each of these elements in detail while maintaining our focus on the ultimate aim: that we are saved for the glory of God to do good works, as emphasized in Ephesians 2:8-10.
Understanding Grace in Regeneration
Regeneration is the foundational aspect of salvation, marking the moment the Holy Spirit brings a believer to spiritual life. This miraculous work of grace is a gift from God, not something we achieve through our own efforts.
When we recognize how God manifests His grace in regeneration, it starts with the new birth. This act represents the dawn of new life, empowering individuals to respond to God’s call. Jesus discusses this with the Jewish leader Nichodemus in John 3:3. He tells him from the outset of the conversation that "unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God."
Ephesians 2:8 states, "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God." This teaches us that regeneration is the gift from God. Faith is that gift imparted through regeneration that allows us to walk with the Lord. It is not our own doing, but something given to us "so that no one may boast." (Eph 2:9). The purpose of this regeneration, this gift of faith, is in part that we might walk in the good works that the Lord has prepared beforehand (Eph 2:10).
Paul expresses the idea of the new birth again in 2 Corinthians 5:17, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” This transformation is evident in the changes we observe in those who experience regeneration. The Christian who has been gifted faith in regeneration is fundamentally changed. I have been given a new start, a new life, a new birth.
Justification: A Gift of Grace
The next step in our exploration is justification, which refers to God declaring a sinner righteous through faith in Christ’s completed work. This aspect of salvation reveals grace in a powerful manner. Justification requires no effort from us; it is wholly a divine declaration.
In the process of justification, there is a double imputation. Our sin is imputed to Christ on the cross and God imputes the righteousness of Christ to us. Thus, grace manifests in the assurance that, despite our sin, we are viewed as righteous in God’s eyes. Romans 5:1 states, “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
This reassurance alleviates doubts regarding our standing with God. It fosters confidence that acceptance into God’s family is based solely on faith, not our performance. This reality allows us to live boldly, secured by the grace provided through Christ. Many of us often face questions of insecurity. Am I truly saved? What about the things I still struggle with? The promise of justification can counteract this insecurity.
The gospel message is not one of potential, but of actuality. If we are in Christ, we are new creations. If we have been brought to Christ through faith, then we are truly justified. Christ's death on the cross did not provide a potential for sin to be paid, but actually paid the debt owed for everyone who will come to faith and repentance.
The Journey of Sanctification
Finally, we must examine sanctification, which denotes the continuous work of the Holy Spirit in a believer’s life as they grow in holiness and obedience. While regeneration signifies the beginning of the journey, and justification secures our standing, sanctification represents the daily experience of living out our faith.
The catechism emphasizes that God gives His Holy Spirit to work in us, highlighting the grace needed in this ongoing process. Sanctification emphasizes obedience and produces tangible fruit in believers’ lives. Jesus states in John 15:5, “I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.”
Sanctification illustrates that, while we are saved by grace, we are also sustained by it. The Holy Spirit empowers us to obey God's commands, producing the fruit of the Spirit in our daily lives. This is the fruit of repentance that John the Baptist demands from the Pharisees in Matthew 3:8. The truth is that we cannot have regeneration and justification without also being brought through the process of sanctification. The Lord not only draws us to himself, regeneration, but he changes us day by day into the image of the Son, sanctification.
The Unity of Grace in Salvation
As we explore regeneration, justification, and sanctification, a beautiful unity in God’s work becomes evident. Grace is not simply a one-time occurrence; it is an ongoing reality within our Christian life.
We remember that God’s grace cannot be earned; it is a gift meant to inspire us toward a life of righteousness. Paul summarizes this perfectly in Ephesians 2:8-10: "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. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."
This key passage draws attention to the balance between faith and works in our lives. While we are saved by grace, we are also called to produce good works. These works do not contribute to our salvation but serve as evidence of our transformation and gratitude for God’s grace.
Embracing the Fullness of God's Grace
Through the lens of the 32nd question of the Westminster Larger Catechism, we see the magnificence of God’s grace unfolding in the second covenant. God’s offering of a Mediator and the promise of His Holy Spirit exemplify a love that generously bestows life and salvation to sinners.
By exploring the nuances and interconnectedness of regeneration, justification, and sanctification, we can appreciate a comprehensive understanding of salvation. Each element reveals a facet of grace that compels us to act, motivating us to engage in good works as expressions of our thankfulness to God.
As members of the Church, we must hold fast to this foundational truth: We are saved by grace through faith, not due to our works, but for the glory of God and to participate in the good works God has planned for us. By doing so, we live out Ephesians 2:8-10, exemplifying lives that testify to the remarkable grace we have received.
In reflection, consider how God's grace is actively transforming your life. Allow it to shape your actions, empower your choices, and guide you toward the good works that glorify Him. Through a holistic understanding of salvation, we gain not only reassurance but also a fulfilling purpose in Christ.
By deepening our understanding of grace and salvation, we embark on a journey that strengthens our faith and enriches our ability to reflect Christ to those around us. Let us celebrate the incredible gift of grace that continually shapes our lives, leading us in gratitude, love, and obedience.
Soli Deo Gloria
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