Choosing Between Two Kingdoms: Sin and Grace
Summary
In our lives, we often face a dichotomy of choices that can have profound effects on our existence and the world around us. The power of a single sin, no matter how seemingly insignificant, can ripple through time and affect countless lives. Adam's choice to eat the forbidden fruit set in motion a legacy of sin and death that has permeated human history. Yet, we must not lose sight of the equally potent power of a single righteous deed. Just as one act of disobedience brought condemnation, one act of obedience can bring life and justification.
We live in a world where two kingdoms are at odds: the kingdom of sin and the kingdom of God. The kingdom of sin is marked by death, condemnation, and separation from God. It is a realm devoid of hope because it is devoid of God. Conversely, the kingdom of God is characterized by grace, justification, reconciliation, restoration, and hope. The sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the second Adam, paid the price for our sins so that we might be free from the burden of paying for them ourselves.
The question we must ask ourselves is which kingdom reigns in our lives. If sin is pervasive in our lives, we may be straddling the line between these two kingdoms, and this is not a state that pleases God. He desires us to dwell fully in His kingdom. This is not an automatic transition; it is a choice that must be made. As John 1:12 tells us, to become children of God, we must receive Jesus and believe in His name.
The law was given so that we might become more aware of our trespasses, but the good news is that where sin increases, grace abounds even more. We must not condemn ourselves or believe that we have sinned beyond the reach of God's forgiveness. His grace is limitless and overflows any barrier that sin might erect. We are reminded of the hymn that celebrates the complete forgiveness found in Christ: "My sin, not in part but the whole, is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more."
As we reflect on the impact of our choices, we must recognize that we are not merely victims of Adam's original sin; we are active participants in sin through our own choices. Yet, we have the opportunity to choose life, to choose to follow Jesus, and to be justified by His grace. Let us choose wisely, for our choices not only determine our eternal destiny but also have the potential to influence the world for good or for evil.
Key Takeaways:
- The gravity of our choices cannot be overstated. A single sin can have far-reaching consequences, just as a single act of righteousness can bring about waves of positive change. We must be mindful of the ripple effects our decisions create, understanding that our actions echo into eternity. [01:06:52]
- We are confronted with two distinct kingdoms: the kingdom of sin leading to death and the kingdom of God offering eternal life. Our daily lives are a testament to which kingdom we serve. It is imperative to examine our hearts and align ourselves with the kingdom of God, embracing His grace and righteousness. [01:07:30]
- Salvation is not an automatic inheritance; it is a deliberate choice to receive God's grace. This choice is an act of will, a conscious decision to accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, and to enter into the family of God as His beloved children. [01:08:48]
- God's grace is boundless and always exceeds the magnitude of our sin. No matter how overwhelmed we may feel by our transgressions, we must remember that God's grace is sufficient to cover all sin, offering us forgiveness and a fresh start. [01:10:11]
- The story of humanity is encapsulated in the narrative of two Adams. The first Adam introduced sin and death into the world, while the second Adam, Jesus Christ, offers redemption and life. Our allegiance to either Adam determines our destiny. Let us choose the second Adam, Jesus, and live in the victory of His grace. [01:11:26]
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
- Romans 5:12-21
- John 1:12
- Romans 10:9-10
#### Observation Questions
1. According to Romans 5:12, how did sin enter the world, and what was the consequence for all people? ([40:49])
2. What are the two kingdoms mentioned in the sermon, and how are they characterized? ([01:07:30])
3. How does John 1:12 describe the process of becoming children of God? ([01:08:48])
4. What does Romans 10:9-10 say is necessary for salvation? ([01:09:27])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the sermon explain the ripple effect of a single sin and a single act of righteousness? ([01:06:52])
2. What does it mean to "straddle the line" between the kingdom of sin and the kingdom of God, and why is this displeasing to God? ([01:08:09])
3. How does the concept of grace exceeding sin, as mentioned in Romans 5:20, provide hope for believers? ([01:10:11])
4. What is the significance of the "two Adams" in the sermon, and how does this narrative shape our understanding of sin and redemption? ([01:11:26])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a recent choice you made. How might it have created a ripple effect, either positively or negatively? How can you be more mindful of the impact of your decisions? ([01:06:52])
2. Examine your daily life. Which kingdom do your actions and attitudes reflect more: the kingdom of sin or the kingdom of God? What changes can you make to align more with God's kingdom? ([01:07:30])
3. Have you made the deliberate choice to receive God's grace and accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior? If not, what is holding you back? If yes, how can you deepen your commitment? ([01:08:48])
4. Think about a time when you felt overwhelmed by your sins. How did you experience God's grace in that situation? How can you remind yourself of God's boundless grace in your daily life? ([01:10:11])
5. The sermon mentions that our choices can influence the world for good or for evil. Identify one area in your life where you can make a positive impact this week. What specific action will you take? ([01:06:52])
6. Reflect on the hymn mentioned in the sermon: "My sin, not in part but the whole, is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more." How does this truth affect your view of forgiveness and grace? ([01:11:26])
7. How can you support others in your small group or community to make choices that align with the kingdom of God? What practical steps can you take to encourage and uplift them? ([01:07:30])
Devotional
Day 1: The Echo of Our Choices
Our decisions carry weight, far more than we often realize. A single choice can cascade into a series of events that reach far beyond our immediate perception. It is essential to understand that our actions have consequences that extend into eternity. The gravity of our choices is such that a single sin can tarnish many lives, just as a single act of righteousness can initiate a wave of positive change. This understanding should lead us to a place of careful consideration and deliberate action, knowing that what we do today can shape the lives of others tomorrow. [07:40]
"Be not deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap." (Galatians 6:7 ESV)
Reflection: How might a recent choice you've made impact others around you, and what can you do to ensure your future decisions bring about positive ripples?
Day 2: Allegiance to the Kingdom
Every day, we live out our allegiance to one of two kingdoms: the kingdom of sin or the kingdom of God. The kingdom we serve is evident in our actions, our words, and our thoughts. The kingdom of sin leads to death and despair, while the kingdom of God offers hope, life, and restoration. It is crucial to examine our hearts and lives to see which kingdom is truly reigning within us. By aligning ourselves with God's kingdom, we embrace a life of grace and righteousness, turning away from the desolation that sin brings. [07:30]
"For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit." (Romans 14:17 ESV)
Reflection: In what ways can you actively demonstrate your commitment to God's kingdom in your daily routine?
Day 3: Choosing to Receive Grace
Salvation is a gift, but it is not one that is forced upon us. It requires a conscious decision to accept the grace that is offered through Jesus Christ. This choice is an act of the will, a deliberate step to acknowledge Jesus as Lord and Savior and to become a child of God. This decision marks the beginning of a transformed life, one that is lived in the light of God's love and forgiveness. It is a choice that must be made by each individual, and it is the most important decision one will ever make. [08:48]
"But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God." (John 1:12 ESV)
Reflection: What practical steps can you take today to deepen your understanding and acceptance of God's grace in your life?
Day 4: The Sufficiency of God's Grace
No sin is too great for God's grace. His mercy is boundless, and His forgiveness is complete. When sin abounds, grace abounds all the more. This truth should bring comfort to those who feel weighed down by their past mistakes. God's grace is sufficient to cover all sin, offering a fresh start and a clean slate. It is a reminder that no matter how far one has fallen, the reach of God's love and forgiveness is even greater. [10:11]
"Where sin increased, grace abounded all the more." (Romans 5:20b ESV)
Reflection: Can you identify a sin or failure that you believe is beyond God's forgiveness, and how can you begin to accept His grace in this area of your life?
Day 5: The Narrative of Two Adams
The story of humanity is a tale of two representatives: the first Adam, who brought sin and death into the world, and the second Adam, Jesus Christ, who offers redemption and life. Our allegiance to either Adam shapes our destiny. By choosing Jesus, we choose life and victory over sin. This choice is not just about our eternal destiny; it influences our current reality and how we impact the world around us. Let us choose the second Adam and live in the triumph of His grace. [11:26]
"For as by the one man's disobedience the many were made sinners, so by the one man's obedience the many will be made righteous." (Romans 5:19 ESV)
Reflection: What are some ways you can actively choose to follow Jesus in your daily life, demonstrating the righteousness that comes from Him?
Quotes
1) "Do not ever underestimate the power of a single sin in your life... sometimes we need to be more thoughtful in the choices we make that are not the choices God wants us to make because we need to ask ourselves what is the ripple effect." [01:06:52] (Download | )
2) "Never underestimate the power of one righteous deed... don't underestimate how much of an impact that can have in other lives as well." [01:07:30] (Download | )
3) "The kingdom of God is one of Grace, justification, reconciliation, restoration, and hope because one paid his life to pay the price for your sin so you don't have to pay anymore." [01:08:09] (Download | )
4) "It is a choice because not everybody will be automatically in the Kingdom of Grace and justification and righteousness. It is a choice... you have to receive it, you have to choose it." [01:08:48] (Download | )
5) "Where sin increases, Grace increases more... sin cannot erect a dam so high that Grace will not overflow that Dam. There's no limit to the grace of God compared to the totality of our sin." [01:10:11] (Download | )
6) "My sin, not in part but the whole, is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more. When sin increases, Grace increases all the more." [01:11:26] (Download | )
7) "Just as one trespass resulted in condemnation for all people, so one righteous act results in justification and life for all people." [01:06:12] (Download | )
8) "Sin comes into our lives and it deceives us, it hardens our heart, turns us into idolators... but here's the deal, God never intended that all humanity would experience it." [52:57] (Download | )
9) "If we split the atoms, which Adam will you choose to follow, be united with, allow to influence the direction and destination of your life?" [01:14:07] (Download | )
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