Saved by Grace Through Faith - Pastor Johnny Marten
Today’s focus is on the profound truth that salvation is a gift from God, given by grace and received through faith in Jesus Christ. This is not something that can be earned or achieved by our own efforts or good works; rather, it is a gift that God freely offers to all who believe. The reality of our human condition is that, from the very beginning with Adam and Eve, we have inherited a spiritual emptiness—a separation from God that no earthly relationship, success, or pleasure can fill. This emptiness is the result of spiritual death, a consequence of disobedience, and it has been passed down through every generation.
Many of us try to fill this void with relationships, achievements, or fleeting pleasures, but nothing truly satisfies. The only way to be made whole is to be reunited with God through a spiritual rebirth. Jesus made this possible by paying the price we could never pay, offering us new life through faith in Him. This spiritual rebirth—being “born again”—is essential; it is the only way to enter the kingdom of God and experience true purpose, peace, and eternal life.
Faith is not merely intellectual agreement or something learned from childhood; it must be a genuine, heartfelt trust in Jesus as Lord. It is not based on feelings or on our ability to maintain perfection, but on the unchanging promise of God. Just as we trust people for things like inheritances or promises, we are called to trust God’s word, which is always true. The invitation is open to all: to believe in your heart and openly declare that Jesus is Lord, receiving the gift of salvation and the fullness of life that only He can give.
Key Takeaways
- Salvation is a Gift, Not an Achievement
God’s grace is not something we can earn or deserve; it is a gift freely given to us through faith in Jesus Christ. Our efforts, good works, or religious rituals cannot secure our place with God—only humble acceptance of His gift can. This truth humbles our pride and invites us to rest in God’s love rather than striving for approval.
- The Universal Emptiness Points to Our Need for God
The deep sense of emptiness and lack of purpose that so many experience is not a flaw to be fixed by human means, but a signpost pointing us back to our need for God. This emptiness is inherited from the fall and cannot be filled by relationships, success, or pleasure. Only a restored relationship with God through spiritual rebirth can satisfy the longing of our souls.
- Spiritual Rebirth is Essential for Eternal Life
Being “born again” is not a metaphor or a religious slogan—it is a spiritual reality necessary for entering God’s kingdom. Physical birth brings us into this world, but only spiritual birth brings us into God’s family. This new birth is received by faith, not by heritage, feelings, or works, and it is the foundation of our eternal hope.
- Genuine Faith is Heartfelt, Not Merely Learned or Felt
True faith is not simply repeating what we have been taught or relying on emotional highs. It is a deep, personal trust in Jesus as Lord, rooted in the heart and expressed openly. Faith that endures testing is faith that has moved from head knowledge or fleeting feelings to a settled conviction in the heart.
- God’s Promises are More Trustworthy Than Any Human Word
We often trust people for things they may not be able to deliver, yet God’s promises are always true and reliable. If we can trust imperfect humans, how much more should we trust the God who cannot lie? Believing God’s word about salvation is the faith that brings us into right relationship with Him and secures our eternal destiny.