Saved by Grace: The Gift of God

SERMON TITLE:   “Saved by Grace:  The Gift of God”
SERMON TEXT:    Ephesians 2:1-10
PREACHER:           Rev. Kim James
OCCASION:           August 21, 2022, at First UMC
 
 
INTRODUCTION
 
                Do you know who Jim Gaffigan is?  The first time I ever heard of him was in 2015, just before he performed the opening act for the pope’s arrival on stage during a visit to Philadelphia.  Because Jim Gaffigan is a practicing Catholic who frequently talks about his faith and his church in his stand-up comedy routines, Gaffigan was invited to entertain the gigantic crowd that was eagerly awaiting the pope’s appearance.
                That was seven years ago, but Jim Gaffigan is still known as a “clean comedian” who rarely, if ever, uses swear words in his routines.  In interviews, when asked about his Christian faith, Gaffigan usually replies that he has a clear sense of his need for God’s mercy.  Gaffigan was raised Catholic, fell away from the church for a while, and then came back to it because he knew he was a sinner in need of God’s forgiving love.  Gaffigan says that, through the teachings and rituals of the church, he experiences the gift of God’s grace.
                The gift of God’s grace is what I want to talk with you about this morning.  Last Sunday, we read from Ephesians chapter one, and learned that we are saved by a “glorious grace” which originates in God’s will and desire and is both abundant and lifelong.  Today, I invite you to move with me into Ephesians chapter two, where we see this saving grace described as “the gift of God.”

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