I have had many people (of other faiths) try to challenge my belief in Grace. They say things like, “Pastor Bill, it seems like many Christians claim they just pray a prayer, and even if they live like hell, they go to heaven. That doesn’t seem fair.”
It’s an honest question. And if Grace simply meant “say a few magic words and do whatever you want,” I’d agree. That definitely wouldn’t seem fair at all.
But that’s not the Gospel.
In Philippians 1:27, Paul writes, “Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.” That word worthy can definitely make us nervous. Some of us hear it and think, “Okay, time to try harder so God will like me.” But that’s absolutely not what Paul means.
The Greek word he uses, axios, means “in a manner consistent with” or “in alignment with.” It’s not about earning something. Instead, it’s about living in a way that matches what you’ve already received.
Grace is free — but it is never cheap.
Grace Changes You
Ephesians 2:8–9 reminds us that God saves us by grace through faith, not by works. You don’t obey your way into acceptance with God. Obedience comes because God has already accepted you. Religion says, “I obey; therefore, God accepts me.” The Gospel says, “God accepts me; therefore, I obey.”
Think about adoption. An adopted child doesn’t earn their last name by good behavior. They already belong. But because they belong, they begin to live like part of the family. That’s what Paul is getting at. If you belong to Christ, your life will increasingly reflect Him. Not perfectly. And not instantly. But genuinely.
“Whatever happens.” When you’re stressed, tired, criticized, overlooked, or tempted — the Gospel always shapes your response. Not to earn heaven, but because God has already claimed you for heaven.
Grace doesn’t produce careless living. On the contrary, it produces grateful living.
So, make it your ambition this week to live worthy of the Gospel. Not to get Grace, but because God has already given it to you.
Worthy because of Jesus,
Posted in A Word from the Pastor