In this sermon, Pastor Ortiz preaches from Titus 2:11-15 and Titus 3:4-8, emphasizing the importance of living in the grace of God beyond just salvation. He begins by reminding the congregation that while we often associate God’s grace with salvation, it is also necessary for daily Christian living. Whether in trials or on the mountaintop, God’s grace sustains and strengthens us.

Deterrents to Living in Grace

Pastor Ortiz identifies key obstacles that prevent Christians from fully experiencing God’s grace:

1. Self-Reliance – Many people attempt to navigate life alone, but Scripture teaches that God created us for relationships. Just as Adam was not meant to be alone, Christians need the church community to grow and thrive.

2. Legalism – Adding personal standards to God’s Word can frustrate His grace, as seen in the book of Galatians. We must rely on God’s grace, not self-imposed rules, to live righteously.

3. Shame and Guilt – Living in past mistakes hinders spiritual growth. 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares that in Christ, we are new creations, and the past should not define us.

4. Worldly Distractions – In the Bay Area, the biggest distraction is often the pursuit of money, which can take precedence over serving God. Prioritizing career or finances over spiritual growth leads to spiritual stagnation.

Receiving Grace

Grace is a gift from God, not something we can earn. Titus 3:5 reminds us that salvation is based on God’s mercy, not our own righteousness. Just as receiving a life-changing gift would alter our actions, receiving God’s grace should transform our lives.

1. Grace Washes and Renews – The grace of God cleanses believers and regenerates them into new creations. True salvation results in a changed life.

2. Grace Requires Humility – Just as Christ humbled Himself to become a man for our salvation, we must humble ourselves to receive His grace.

3. Grace Demands Faith – To truly receive grace, we must place our full trust in God, not in our works.

Giving Grace

Grace is not meant to be hoarded; it must be lived out and shared with others.

1. Grace Fuels Righteous Living – Titus 2:12 teaches that God’s grace instructs us to deny ungodliness and live righteously. If we truly value God’s grace, we will seek to live in a way that honors Him.

2. Grace Motivates Service – When we recognize the immense value of God’s grace, we will be compelled to serve Him with passion and dedication.

3. Grace Compels Love – 2 Corinthians 5:14 says that the love of Christ constrains us. Just as Christ loved and pursued us despite our sin, we should extend grace to others, even when they are difficult to love.

Closing Challenge

Pastor Ortiz concludes by urging the congregation to love their church, not because of personal preferences or amenities, but because it is where they grow in God’s grace. He warns against basing commitment on feelings or convenience and instead calls for a steadfast, grace-filled dedication to God and His church.

In summary, practical grace begins with receiving God’s grace daily, then living it out by serving others and remaining faithful to Him. Instead of relying on ourselves, our past, or worldly pursuits, we must fully depend on the grace of God to transform our lives and guide our actions.

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