Posted on 02/10/2010 8:31:36 AM PST by FourtySeven
Courtesy ping because I mentioned you by name.
I had to buy mine from DuPont.
By repenting of sin, and asking for forgiveness. Anything more is works that cannot save (Eph. 2:8-9, Titus 3:5, Isa. 64:6, etc.)
Ask
Ask.
I certainly believe this is true, and I believe it is reflected in my OP. However, this is not a complete answer to my question(s).
Once you "ask", *how* do you receive it?
Did that come with a warranty? :)
Er, well, God *gives* it.
Ping to my post #7.
Yes, but *how* does God "give it"?
Not quite. Both of those things require grace in order for you to do them, or even to consider doing them.
Anything else is the heresy of semi-Pelagianism, condemned back in the 6th century.
Well, I’m glad you’re pleased enough with your particular denomination to ascribe Grace to it, alone, but you’re mistaken.
I know via faith, repentance and prayer answered, sometimes in stunning and immediate ways.
I have a sentimental, soft spot for certain denominations, but can’t honestly say I belong to any one in particular. So, that’s not it, for you, me or anyone else.
Heaven forfend we engage in semi-Pelagianism which was identified as a mortal threat 600 years after Jesus died.
By repenting of sin, and asking for forgiveness.
Which is, of course, exactly what Jesus said to do. I've been through the entire Bible and can't find the word "Pleagianism" in it one single time.
IMHO, once you honestly ask for forgiveness through Christ, affirming your true belief in God, it’s received.
That’s all there is to it.
Thank you, a very interesting answer.
If you wouldn’t mind, perhaps you could elaborate on the “stunning and immediate ways” your prayers have been answered. If it’s too private, that’s ok.
I’m also curious, do you believe you continue to receive God’s grace? If so, how do you receive it?
My humble opinion: you don’t “get” grace, you allow it in because it’s all around you. It’s in a fresh breeze and a stranger’s smile and a quiet moment and a glimpse of a sunset. When you finally drop your ego and see the many little free miracles coming at you... THAT’s when you “get” God’s grace. It has a lot to do with gratitude.
All I can tell you is how it was for me. I think it was always there and I just needed to open my eyes to it. It wasn't a matter of receiving anything, it was just a matter of being honest enough to stop denying it.
Reading that, I don't know if it actually answers your question. Most of the others on the RF are better at articulating this sort of thing than I am - you've come to the right place.
LANDIS: Not many people have grace.
ELAINE: Well, you know, grace is a tough one. I like to think I have a little grace...not as much as Jackie O -
LANDIS: You can’t have “a little grace.” You either have grace, or you...don’t.
ELAINE: O.K., fine, I have...no grace.
LANDIS: And you can’t acquire grace.
ELAINE: Well, I have no intention of “getting” grace.
LANDIS: Grace isn’t something you can pick up at the market.
ELAINE (fed up): Alright, alright, look - I don’t have grace, I don’t want grace...I don’t even say grace, O.K.?
That’s all there is to it.
I believe that too, but with all due respect, that doesn't answer *how* you receive it. By what method is God's grace poured upon you?
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