Pastor Hope Matthew of Solemn Faith International Church, located at Road 21 Plot 14 Federal Housing Estate Woji, delivered an inspiring sermon on Sunday on the topic “Understanding the Power of Grace PT3.”
Drawing from key biblical texts, including 2 Corinthians 9:14, Zechariah 12:10, Joel 2:28-29, and Acts 2:17-18, Pastor Hope delved deep into the essence and impact of grace in the lives of believers.
Pastor Hope began by defining grace as the divine force that shapes our identities, referencing 1 Corinthians 15:10. She highlighted how individuals in the book of Genesis sought grace fervently, citing examples from Genesis 19:19, 32:5, 33:8, 33:10, 33:15, and 34:11.
She explained that tireless service in God’s kingdom and the act of giving are crucial in activating grace, supported by scriptures from Genesis 32:5, Hebrews 12:28, and other passages.
Accessing grace, Pastor Hope noted, requires knowing God and His ways, as well as immersing oneself in His word, drawing from Exodus 33:13 and 17, Proverbs 1:23, John 1:14, Acts 14:3, and 20:32. She outlined the numerous benefits of grace, including preservation, divine separation, and the enjoyment of abundant mercy as seen in Genesis 19:19 and Exodus 34:9.
She emphasized that grace also ensures divine provision and that blessings naturally flow where grace abounds, evidenced by scriptures such as Numbers 32:5, Ruth 2:2, 2 Corinthians 9:8, Psalm 45:2, and Psalm 84:11.
In her sermon, Pastor Hope shared several profound quotes, stating that grace is the maker of men and that in contemporary times, God is eager to pour out His grace upon all flesh, signifying the Holy Spirit as the Spirit of Grace.
She warned against mistaking grace for laziness and underscored that grace is God’s gift to humanity, referencing Ephesians 2:8, 3:7, and Titus 2:11. Furthermore, she highlighted that grace is essential for harmonious relationships, citing Colossians 4:6.
The service was marked by special musical numbers, heartfelt prayers, and moments of healing, leaving the congregation deeply moved and spiritually enriched. Pastor Hope concluded with a blessing from Revelation 22:21, encapsulating the grace-filled message of the day.
Also speaking on the same topic, Pastor Mathew Ele-Ojo James expounded on the profound concept of grace.
Drawing on texts from 2 Corinthians 9:14, Zechariah 12:10, and Acts 4:33, Pastor James elucidated the multifaceted nature of grace and its significance in the life of a believer.
Pastor James began by defining grace as the strength of God that surpasses human strength, enabling individuals to overcome life’s stresses.
Citing scriptures such as 2 Corinthians 12:8-9 and Isaiah 40:29-31, he emphasized that grace is a divine force that allows one to achieve more than their labor or qualifications would ordinarily permit. He supported this by referencing 1 Corinthians 15:10 and Ephesians 3:20.
The sermon highlighted the necessity of grace for operating in the gifts of the Holy Ghost, as indicated in Romans 12:6 and 1 Corinthians 12:4-11.
Pastor James also stressed the importance of grace for obedience to faith, the ability to command open doors, and divine access or acceptance, drawing on passages like Revelation 3:8 and Isaiah 45:1-3.
Accessing grace, according to Pastor James, can be achieved through the revelation of Jesus Christ, prophecy, and avoiding corrupt communications. He referenced 1 Peter 1:13, Matthew 16:16-18, and Ephesians 4:29 to reinforce these points.
In his sermon, Pastor James included several poignant quotes, such as, “It takes God’s strength to excel and succeed in life,” and “Grace is the master key that opens doors of opportunities.”
He emphasized that the journey of Christianity is inherently a journey of faith, highlighting scriptures like Habakkuk 2:4 and Romans 1:17 to underscore that faith in action brings favor and success.
The service featured a moving performance by the Solemn Voice Choir and included special prayers and moments of healing, further enhancing the spiritual atmosphere of the gathering.
Pastor James’ message resonated deeply with the congregation, offering a profound understanding of grace as both a divine enabler and a source of empowerment for believers to excel in their spiritual and everyday lives.
