The Greatest Story Ever Told- Growing In Grace

The Power of Perspective

Why Perspective Matters

In filmmaking, perspective is everything. It shapes the narrative and influences how we interpret the story. The same applies to reading the Bible. The story of the Prodigal Son, found in Luke 15, is often read from the viewpoint of the prodigal son or the forgiving father. However, today we will explore it from the perspective of the Pharisees, who were also part of Jesus' audience.

The Audience of Jesus

Jesus often spoke to diverse groups, including tax collectors, sinners, disciples, and Pharisees. The Pharisees, in particular, were critical of Jesus' association with sinners. Understanding their perspective can shed light on the broader message Jesus was conveying about grace.

The Story of the Prodigal Son

A Familiar Tale

The Prodigal Son is a well-known parable. A young man demands his inheritance, squanders it on reckless living, and returns home destitute. His father welcomes him back with open arms, celebrating his return. This part of the story resonates with many as a testament to God's unconditional love and forgiveness.

The Older Brother's Reaction

However, the story also includes the older brother, who feels overlooked and resentful. He has been dutiful and obedient, yet he perceives his father's celebration of the prodigal son's return as unjust. This reaction mirrors the Pharisees' confusion and frustration with Jesus' message of grace.

The Greatest Story Ever Told

God's Story of Grace

Jesus aims to tell the greatest story ever told—a story of grace. But to understand this story, we must shift our perspective. If we view it from the Pharisees' seat, grace can seem perplexing and unfair. This is because grace, by its nature, is unearned and freely given, often to those who seem least deserving.

Recognizing Our Pharisaic Tendencies

Many of us unknowingly adopt a Pharisaic mindset. We struggle with extending grace, holding onto self-righteousness and judgment. To truly grasp God's grace, we must decentralize ourselves and recognize that we are not the main characters in God's story.

Growing in Grace

Clarity on Grace

Understanding grace begins with clarity. Grace is the unearned and freely given favor of God, extended to both the undeserving and the ill-deserving. It is not something we can earn or deserve; it is a gift from God.

Grace and Holiness

Grace should lead us to holiness. The grace of God is not separate from His holiness. Instead, it is the pathway to becoming more like Jesus. Grace saves us and sanctifies us, transforming us into vessels that glorify God.

The Misuse of Grace

Some people misuse grace, treating it as a license to sin. This misunderstanding stems from a shallow grasp of grace. True grace empowers us to live for God, not to indulge in sinful behavior.

The Role of Humility

Receiving and growing in grace requires humility. God gives grace generously, but He resists the proud and gives grace to the humble. We must humble ourselves to fully embrace and extend God's grace.

Life Application

Embracing a Vision of Mercy

To walk in grace, we need a clear vision of mercy. Grace is getting what we do not deserve, while mercy is not getting what we do deserve. Keeping God's mercy in clear view helps us extend grace to others.

Reflecting on God's Mercy

Think back to a time in your life that ends with the phrase, "but for the mercy of God." Recall that story whenever you struggle to extend grace. This reflection can help you maintain a humble and grateful heart.

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