| Chapter 1: The Gift, and the Giver | | Chapter 2: The Receipt of the Gift by Faith | | Chapter 3: The Relationship of Honor and Grace | | Chapter 4: Honor The Son By Honoring His Grace | | Chapter 5: Common Approaches to Salvation by Works | | Chapter 6: Common Approaches to Salvation by Works | | Chapter 7: The Purpose of the Law. | | Chapter 8: The Enemies of Grace | | Chapter 9: Grace - The Eve of the Battle | | Chapter 10: Grace--The Battle Begins | | Chapter 11: Grace - The Debate Goes Public | | Chapter 12: The Jerusalem Counsel | | Chapter 13: Guerrilla Tactics in the War On Grace | | Chapter 14: The Four Perversions of Grace-- 1 & 2 |
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The Doctrine of Grace
by
Ronald R. Shea, Th.M., J.D.
GRACE: THE BATTLE BEGINS
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GRACE: THE BATTLE BEGINS
As Paul continued to preach throughout Galatia, his message of grace was heard by many Jews. Because of the centrality of the law to the Jewish community, many of these people had misunderstood the purpose of the law throughout their entire life, believing obedience to the law to be necessary to be justified in the sight of God. Some who heard Paul believed his message. Others were so offended by this strange doctrine that a serious battle ensued for the hearts and minds of men.
Now it happened in Iconium that they went together to the synagogue of the Jews, and so spoke that a great multitude both of the Jews and of the Greeks believed. But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brethren.
Acts 14:1-2
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GRACE: THE BATTLE INTENSIFIES
Although some believed Paul's message, others became dedicated and tireless opponents of the doctrine of grace. In Acts 14:3-6 we read that Paul was forced to flee Iconium for his life.
Therefore they stayed there a long time, speaking boldly in the Lord, who was bearing witness to the word of His grace... but the multitude of the city was divided: part sided with the Jews, and part with the apostles. And when a violent attempt was made... to abuse and stone them, they became aware of it and fled to Lystra and Derbe, ciries of Lycaonia, and the surrounding region.
Acts 14:3-6
When Paul successfully escaped, these busybodies were so consumed with their hatred of the doctrine of grace that they followed Paul to the city of Lystra. They persuaded the mulltitude to stone Paul, and then left him for dead!
Then Jews from Antioch and Iconium came there; and having persuaded the multitudes, they stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, supposing him to be dead.
Acts 14:19
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Chapter 10: Grace--The Battle Begins |
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