“The Means of Grace” John Wesley Sermon 16: Short and Sweet!

Summary

The video script delves into the concept of 'means of grace' from Malachi 3:7, emphasizing their significance in spiritual growth. It discusses the historical misuse and neglect of these means, which include prayer, Bible study, and the Lord's Supper. The script clarifies that while these means do not save, they are channels through which God's grace is conveyed. It encourages their use for both believers and seekers, highlighting the importance of prayer and self-examination in receiving God's grace. The script refutes common objections, advocating for a humble approach to these means as aids in spiritual renewal.

Takeaways

• 📜 The text for today's message is from Malachi 3:7, highlighting the importance of adhering to God's statutes.
• 🌟 The means of grace were prevalent in the early church but have been misunderstood or neglected over time.
• 🧐 The outward acts of the means of grace should not overshadow the inward change of heart, and vice versa.
• 🙏 Prayer, Bible study, and the Lord's Supper are identified as the most important means of grace for conveying God's grace.
• 🚫 The means of grace are not a substitute for salvation, which comes only through Christ's atoning blood.
• 🌱 Using the means of grace is not about earning salvation but is a pathway to experience God's blessings.
• 📢 The Bible instructs all who seek God's grace to utilize the means available, especially prayer.
• 📚 Bible study is emphasized as a means to gain wisdom and is beneficial for both believers and seekers.
• 🍇 The Lord's Supper is a clear and standard way of receiving God's grace and should be approached with self-examination.
• 💡 Common objections to the means of grace are addressed, clarifying misconceptions about salvation and works righteousness.
• 🌿 There is a pattern for using the means of grace that leads to faith in Christ, involving awareness of sin, prayer, and participation in the Lord's Supper.

Q & A

What is the scripture reference mentioned in the message?

The scripture reference mentioned is Malachi chapter 3 verse 7.

What does the term 'means of grace' refer to in the context of the message?

In the context of the message, 'means of grace' refers to the outward symbols, words, and actions that God ordained to be the ordinary channels of conveying His prevenient, justifying, and sanctifying grace to our souls.

Why did some early church members overemphasize the outward acts of the means of grace?

Some early church members overemphasized the outward acts because they neglected the inward change of the heart, leading to an imbalance in their understanding and practice of the means of grace.

How did the abuse of the means of grace manifest according to the message?

The abuse of the means of grace manifested by some denying that any grace was given through these means, while others stressed the inward grace but downplayed the outward act, leading many to abandon the means of grace altogether.

What are the most important means of grace mentioned in the message?

The most important means of grace mentioned are prayer, Bible study, and the Lord's Supper.

Why does the message emphasize that using the means of grace will not save us?

The message emphasizes that using the means of grace will not save us because salvation comes through Christ's atoning blood alone, and faith alone saves us, not the merit of using the means of grace.

What does the message suggest for those who are not yet saved and their use of the means of grace?

The message instructs that all who desire the grace of God, including those who are not yet saved, should use all the means available, particularly prayer, as it is a way to receive the Holy Spirit.

How does the message view the role of prayer in the spiritual journey?

The message views prayer as a means for everyone, including believers and seekers, to receive God's grace and to be persistent in prayer as Jesus taught in His parables.

What is the significance of studying the Bible as a means of grace?

Studying the Bible is significant as it leads to true wisdom and is profitable for all readers, including the unsaved, as it is a means of grace ordained by God.

Why is it important to examine oneself before partaking of the Lord's Supper according to the message?

It is important to examine oneself before partaking of the Lord's Supper to ensure a clear conscience and a proper understanding of the grace received, as the Lord's Supper is a clear way of receiving God's grace.

What are some common objections to using the means of grace that the message addresses?

Some common objections include the belief that the means can be trusted for salvation, which is a misunderstanding as salvation is by faith in Christ alone, and the misconception that using the means is works righteousness, whereas they are God's way to bless His children.

How does the message conclude regarding the use of the means of grace?

The message concludes that while the means of grace have no merit or power of their own, they are helpful tools for renewing the soul, and humility is essential in using them to give God all the praise.