SALVATION - Not deserved or earned

Ephesians 2:4-5 | But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God’s grace that you have been saved!)

1. What is mercy? (Use google or a dictionary if needed!)
2. What is grace? (Use google or a dictionary if needed!)
3. Where do you see God’s grace in salvation? 
4. Where do you see God’s mercy in salvation?

Titus 3:5-7 | He saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit. He generously poured out the Spirit upon us through Jesus Christ our Savior. Because of his grace he made us right in his sight and gave us confidence that we will inherit eternal life.

1. Why would God provide a way for us to be saved, even though we don’t deserve it?
2. How do you feel towards God because of His gift? 
3. How does your life show your thankfulness for God’s grace and mercy? If it doesn’t, what do you need to change?

Romans 5:6-11 | When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. And since we have been made right in God’s sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God’s condemnation. For since our friendship with God was restored by the death of his Son while we were still his enemies, we will certainly be saved through the life of his Son. So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends of God.

1. Did God wait to send Jesus for us until people started “trying to be good” or doing what was right? Why not?
2. Do you love people when they don’t deserve it? Or do you only show love to those who love you back? [Give some examples of ways you do this well and ways you need to improve].
3. What does it mean to rejoice? In what ways can rejoicing be seen in your life because o  Jesus? If it isn’t part of your life, why not?