There’s a reason they call it “Amazing Grace.” God’s grace is the greatest gift imaginable. Thinking about an appropriate response can be a little overwhelming. The study this quarter focuses on God’s gift of grace and how we respond to it both personally and communally. The sessions from the Old and New Testaments illuminate how God’s grace impacts the lives of all believers, as demonstrated by their obedience, gratitude, and holy living.

Unit I, “God Is Faithful,” has five sessions that tell the story of God’s faithfulness. In Genesis, God is faithful to Abraham by blessing his nephew Lot, and God is faithful in answering Hannah’s prayer in First Samuel. In Exodus, God is faithful to the people of Israel by providing manna when they complain of hunger. In Numbers, Caleb and Joshua remind the Israelites of God’s faithfulness. Later, God hears their cries and forgives, although the people continue to rebel.

Unit II, “Responses to God’s Faithfulness,” has four sessions that explore reactions to the many benefits accrued to humans because of God’s grace. Deuteronomy teaches that faith requires a response of obedience. The story of Elijah and the widow of Zarephath in First Kings shows that faithful obedience saves Elijah, the widow, and her son. Luke’s Gospel tells about gratitude for God’s faithfulness in the anointing of Jesus and the healing of the centurion’s servant.

Unit III, “Faith Leads to Holy Living,” has four sessions that examine letters to early churches that tell them how to live as faithful followers of Christ. Second Corinthians tells the people to examine themselves to see if they are living in faith. First Thessalonians urges Christians to be positive examples of faith. First and Second Peter teach that faith requires holy living and goodness.