Having been raised in the Southern Baptist church, I know the title of this devotion raises some eyebrows and starts the wheels turning. Having been introduced to the Assemblies of God churches while I was in junior high school, I became torn over the argument that ensued over the issue. Sadly, this issue has caused many to completely turn their backs on friends, family, the church and sometimes God Himself.
I opened my email on Tuesday and read this devotion from Dr. Michael Youssef. I have never heard the issue explained as simply, yet so clearly. If you have ever weighed this argument for yourself, I would ask that you read the devotion without digging in your heels for one side or the other. Go as far as asking God to reveal truth and understanding about the issue and help you come to a conclusion. Have a blessed day!
Fallen from Grace
By Michael Youssef, Ph.D.
The Apostle Paul, in Galatians 5:4, uses the term "fallen away from grace." Some think that when a person has "fallen from grace" it means that he has lost his salvation, but that's not what the Apostle Paul meant. It is the grace of God that saves us, it is the grace of God that sustains us, and it is the grace of God that's going to present us to the Father blameless and holy in that day of glory.
The grace of God is a complete job from beginning to end. So, what does Paul mean by "fallen from grace?" Falling from grace is when you cease to believe that only God's grace can save you. Falling from grace is when you trust in some external rule or some man-made ritual or church dogma to get you to heaven. Falling from grace is when you add something to the grace of God to receive the favor of God.
To fall from grace is to fall into legalism. Legalism says that you are not saved by God's grace alone, but rather, you are saved by God's grace, plus keeping some external rituals and rules. In choosing legalism you have turned away from the all-sufficient grace of God for salvation.
When you teach that salvation is through grace plus something—whatever that something is—you repudiate the whole Gospel of Jesus Christ. If a person is trying to be saved by works, that person has fallen from grace into legalism. Legalism is man's way, not God's way.
Prayer: Father, help me to remember that it is only by Your grace that I am saved. Help me to never try to add something to that. Thank You that You are not a legalistic God. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
"You who are trying to be justified by law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace" (Galatians 5:4).
