Sun 25 Jun

How can grace be dangerous? It appears to be a bit of misnomer to call grace dangerous. Paul is not talking about the prayer of thanks we say before a meal, nor is he talking about someone's name. He is writing about the action of God in forgiving someone of his sins. He is writing about the action of God in justifying the wicked. Why is such grace dangerous? Two related concerns are raised over such grace. First, "Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means!" (Romans 6:1). Second, "Shall we sin because we are not under law but under grace? By no means!" (Romans 6:15). The impression is that there is sufficient grace, we can keep on sinning because God is gracious and loving anyway. Paul writes to correct such thinking. If we have been the recipients of God's grace, then it should lead us to a life of righteousness and holiness, not a life of further sin. If God has stepped into our lives and saved us then why would we want to continue in such a sinful lifestyle when God has rescued us. It is as though we are saying to God, "Thank you for saving me but I'll continue in my old lifestyle for the time being." Do we think God will put up with that attitude for long? As we ponder our own lifestyle, how is it reflective of the God of grace who has stepped into our lives to save us to live a life of holiness?