This Sunday’s service at Rhema South Coast Family Church was nothing short of extraordinary. Pastor Larry began our new series titled Grace & Truth, and the message spoke directly to the heart of the season.
We also had an unforgettable performance by Andrew and Ebenezer from Waynol Center. Their rendition of Mary Did You Know moved the entire congregation—it was truly anointed. Their passion and talent reminded us of the beauty of worship and the power of song to bring us closer to God.
Now, let’s look into Pastor Larry’s powerful sermon. It highlighted the meaning and impact of Jesus’ birth and His gift of grace and truth.
The Greatest Gift | Grace and Truth
John 1:14 says, “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.”
The birth of Jesus is the ultimate gift. Imagine God, the Creator of all, choosing to come to earth as a vulnerable baby! Jesus, the second Adam, came to redeem us from sin and restore our relationship with the Father.
When we believe, something miraculous happens:
- We are forgiven.
- We are transformed.
- We enter an eternal relationship with God.
This is the essence of Christmas—grace and truth embodied in Christ, who is the living Word of God.
The Power of the Word
John 1:1-3 declares, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” Jesus is the Word made flesh, and His Word is active, powerful, and life-changing.
When we receive the Word of God and apply it, transformation begins. As Pastor Larry said, “If you submit to conviction, change will start from within.”
Eight Ways the Word Works in Your Life
It Gives Faith
Faith is the foundation of our relationship with God, and the Word is its source. Romans 10:17 reminds us, “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.” When life feels overwhelming or our faith seems weak, turning to God’s Word reignites our trust in Him.
Each verse we read reminds us of His promises and faithfulness. Just like a flame fed by oxygen, our faith grows stronger when we hear and meditate on the Word.
It Brings Salvation
Salvation begins with the Word. James 1:18 declares, “We are born again by the Word of truth.” This isn’t just a one-time event—it’s a continuous transformation. The Word plants the incorruptible seed of salvation in us, changing our hearts and renewing our spirits.
As 1 Peter 1:23 says, “We are born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the Word of God which lives and abides forever.” Salvation is eternal, and it starts with hearing and believing God’s truth.
It Nourishes the Soul
Just as our physical bodies need food, our souls require the nourishment of God’s Word. Jeremiah 15:16 says, “Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart.” The Word feeds our spirits, bringing joy, strength, and peace.
Whether we’re new in faith or mature believers, the Word provides the sustenance we need to grow and stay spiritually healthy. Jesus Himself affirmed this when He said, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4).
It Illuminates the Mind
The Word of God brings light into our lives, dispelling darkness and confusion. Psalm 119:130 says, “The entrance of Your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.” Unlike worldly knowledge, which can puff us up, the illumination from God’s Word produces wisdom and clarity.
It helps us make decisions that align with His will, giving us insight into His plans. This light not only guides us but also transforms our perspective, allowing us to see life from His point of view.
It Brings Healing
The Word of God carries healing power. Psalm 107:20 proclaims, “He sent His word and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.” Whether it’s physical illness, emotional wounds, or spiritual brokenness, the Word brings restoration. It’s like divine medicine—available to us whenever we need it.
Proverbs 4:20-22 says, “My son, give attention to my words… For they are life to those who find them, and health to all their flesh.” Just as we trust a doctor’s prescription, we should turn to God’s Word for healing.
It Provides Victory Over Sin and Satan
Temptation and sin are part of life, but the Word equips us to overcome them. Psalm 119:11 declares, “Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You.” Jesus Himself demonstrated the power of the Word when He resisted Satan in the wilderness, saying, “It is written” (Matthew 4:4). The Word is our sword in spiritual battles, helping us stand firm against the enemy’s schemes and walk in righteousness.
It Sanctifies and Cleanses
Sanctification is a lifelong process, and the Word plays a central role. Ephesians 5:26 explains that Christ sanctifies and cleanses His Church “with the washing of water by the word.” Just as water cleanses the body, the Word purifies our hearts and minds. It reveals areas in our lives that need to change and empowers us to grow in holiness. As we consistently immerse ourselves in the Word, we become more like Christ.
It Acts as a Spiritual Mirror
The Word doesn’t just show us who God is—it shows us who we are. James 1:23-25 describes the Word as a mirror: “For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was.” When we look into the Word, it reflects our true selves, revealing areas where we need to change and grow. But it also reminds us of our identity in Christ—redeemed, loved, and empowered.
The Word of God isn’t just words on a page. It’s alive, powerful, and transformational. As we meditate on these truths, let’s commit to making the Word an essential part of our daily lives. Whether it’s giving us faith, nourishment, healing, or victory, the Word equips us to live out our unlimited potential in Christ.
A Call to Reflect on Grace and Truth
As we approach Christmas, let’s take time to reflect on the incredible grace and truth we’ve received through Jesus. This is not just a seasonal message—it’s a call to live out the Word daily.
Let’s make these declarations:
- I am redeemed by the blood of Christ.
- I am a child of God.
- I am filled with the Holy Spirit.
How to Use the Word in Your Life
- Meditate on the Word daily.
- Speak it over your circumstances.
- Share it with others to bring hope and transformation.
Isaiah 55:11 says, “So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; it shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please.”
Living Grace and Truth
This week, let’s commit to living out grace and truth. Take time to reflect on God’s Word, share the message of Jesus with someone, and be the light in your community.
Prayer | A Heart of Gratitude
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Jesus, full of grace and truth. Help us to live in the light of Your Word, to grow in faith, and to share Your love with others. May this Christmas season remind us of the power of Your grace and the truth that sets us free. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
