ENLARGE Intentional Grace God's Redemption Plan Key Verse “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” — Ephesians 2:8–9 (ESV) Introduction Grace is not God's backup plan. Before creation itself, God established a redemption plan centered in Jesus Christ. The Bible reveals a consistent story—from Genesis to Revelation—of God's desire to redeem, restore, reconcile, and glorify His people. The Gospel is the story of God's intentional grace: planned by the Father, accomplished through the Son, and applied by the Holy Spirit. OPEN IT 1. What does it mean to you that salvation is a gift from God? Consider how receiving a gift differs from earning a reward. Parallel Verses Romans 6:23; Titus 3:5–7; James 1:17 2. Why is it difficult for many people to accept something they cannot earn? Human nature often prefers achievement over dependence. Parallel Verses Romans 10:3–...

CounterPoint ENLARGE Why Are All of Our Righteous Acts Considered Filthy Rags? Isaiah 64:6 Study Summary Theme: Human Righteousness vs. God's Righteousness “All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags...” — Isaiah 64:6 OPEN IT 1. Have you ever worked hard to earn someone's approval, only to discover that your efforts were not enough? 2. Why do people often believe that being a “good person” should earn God's acceptance? 3. What is the difference between doing good works to earn salvation and doing good works because of salvation? EXPLORE IT 1. What did Isaiah mean when he described righteous acts as “filthy rags”? Isaiah was speaking of Israel's hypocrisy. The people outwardly practiced religion while inwardly rebelling against God. Their apparent righteousness was polluted by sin and self-reliance. Isaiah includes himself among the people ("we"), emphasizing the universal nature of human sinfulness. Parallel...