Monday, August 11, 2025

#9. Bible Study Guide – Grace and Holiness: Why Obedience Still Matters

 


1. Lesson Objective

To understand that salvation is entirely by grace, yet the Bible calls believers to live holy lives in obedience to God — not to earn salvation, but because we belong to Him.


2. Opening Prayer

"Father, thank You for saving us by Your grace. Teach us today why obedience still matters for Your children. Help us walk in holiness as a response to Your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen."


3. Question & Answer Bible Study with Exegetical Commentary


Q1: If salvation is by grace, why should Christians still obey God?

A: The Bible teaches that grace not only saves us but also transforms us to live godly lives.

Verse: Titus 2:11–12 – “For the grace of God has appeared… It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness… and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives.”

Commentary:

Grace is not a license to sin. True grace changes our hearts so that we desire to please God.


Q2: What is the relationship between grace and holiness?

A: The Bible teaches that holiness is the fruit of grace, not the condition for receiving it.

Verse: Ephesians 2:8–10 – “For it is by grace you have been saved… For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works.”

Commentary:

We are not saved by works but for works. Obedience is the evidence of genuine faith.


Q3: What motivates Christian obedience?

A: The Bible teaches that love for God is the true motivation for holiness.

Verse: John 14:15 – “If you love me, keep my commands.”

Commentary:

We obey not to earn God’s favor, but because we already have His favor through Christ.


Q4: What role does the Holy Spirit play in holiness?

A: The Bible teaches that the Holy Spirit empowers believers to obey God’s commands.

Verse: Ezekiel 36:27 – “And I will put my Spirit within you and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules.”

Commentary:

The Spirit doesn’t just tell us what to do — He gives us the desire and power to do it.


Q5: Can a believer ignore holiness and still claim to follow Christ?

A: The Bible teaches that those truly saved will bear the fruit of obedience.

Verse: 1 John 2:3–4 – “We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. Whoever says, ‘I know him,’ but does not do what he commands is a liar…”

Commentary:

Holiness is not optional — it is the mark of a genuine believer.


4. Reflection & Call to Action

  • Reflection: Is my obedience to God rooted in love and gratitude, or in fear and legalism?

  • Call to Action:

    1. Identify one habit of sin to surrender to God this week.

    2. Pray for the Spirit’s power to walk in holiness.

    3. Show Christ’s love through one intentional act of service today.


5. Closing Prayer

"Lord, thank You for Your amazing grace that saved me. Help me to live a holy life that honors You, not to earn Your love, but because I already have it in Christ. Amen."


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