"GREAT!!!"

By Bill Brandstatter

The word “great” has been used a great deal. Many times it is used to refer to a singer or actor. During this time of year, a football team may be called “great” after winning the Super Bowl. The word itself means that something is superior to something else. The word “great”; however, truly describes all the things God has provided for us. Nothing tops the greatness of God.    His salvation is great. The writer of Hebrews spoke of this great salvation. He wrote: “How shall we escape so great a salvation?” (Heb. 2:3) God’s salvation is great because it was spoken by the Lord and confirmed by those who heard Him (Heb. 2:4). God bore witness with miracles and gifts of the Holy Spirit (Heb. 2:4). These gifts help to confirm the message and how great it was (Mark 16:20).    His Grace is great. When Christ came, the ultimate act of grace appeared to man (John.1:1:17). God’s grace appeared to all men when they saw and witnessed Christ (Tit. 2:11). Paul described God’s grace by indicating, “Much more the grace of God and the gift by the grace of one man abounded to many.” (Rom. 5:15) Paul then states, “Grace might reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” (Rom. 5:21) When Christ came, grace came. How great is His grace!    His mercy is great. Moses said, "Pardon the iniquity of this people, I pray, according to the greatness of Your mercy, just as You have forgiven this people, from Egypt even until now.” (Num. 14:19) God is more merciful than man. His mercy is greater than man’s mercy. The Psalmist declared “For great is Your mercy toward me.” (Psa. 86:13) His greatness can be ours. Paul wrote, “And what is the exceeding greatness of His greatness can be ours. Paul wrote, “And what is the exceeding greatness of    His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power.” (Eph. 1:19) If a person does not have God, this power is not available to them. Do you know and have God’s greatness working in you?

- Bill Brandstatter preaches for the Marion Church of Christ in Marion, IL. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://marionchurchofchrist.com/