When the church of Christ was established in Ephesus in Acts 19 and 20, they were saved by the grace of God. How can we prove this claim? The apostle Paul told the church by way of these words: “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God. ” (Eph. 2:8). However, what did those twelve men do in Acts 19 that indicates to us they were saved by grace? Let’s allow the word of God to demonstrate to us what it means to be saved by grace.

In Acts 19:1-7, the apostle Paul encountered twelve men who had been baptized in the name of John.  They had not heard of receiving the Holy Spirit when they believed. Paul then asked them a great question, “Into what then were you baptized?” and their response, “Into John’s baptism” (Acts 19:3). This was a great response from Paul and we can take notes from him on how to approach individuals during our evangelism efforts. Paul shows that it is proper to question one’s religious convictions. The Proverbial writer gave this wisdom for our consideration: “The first one to plead his cause seems right, Until his neighbor comes and examines him” (Pro. 18:17).

When these men heard the correct message, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus, and the church of Christ in Ephesus began (Acts 19:5-7). The twelve men obeyed what we call “The Plan of Salvation”. Those in Ephesus heard the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ (Acts 19.5). They believed that Jesus was the Christ, the Son of the Living God, or had faith towards Him (Acts 20:21). Repentance towards God was taught to them (Acts 20:21). They confessed their deeds, showing they have sinned, implying Christ to be the standard of morality (Acts 19:18).  Finally, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus for the remission of their sins (Acts 19.5).

When Paul wrote the church at Ephesus from a Roman jail cell, he emphasized how they were saved through faith. It would be through the gospel system the sinner would be saved or delivered from sin to salvation. It would not be of themselves or through their own righteousness (like the Law of Moses) as Paul told the Romans, but rather through the gospel (Romans 10:1-3). God’s grace would be the gift He offers to mankind in order to come into a covenant relationship with Him. What a blessing and honor to have such a gift.

As Paul wrote to Titus, he informed him of what God’s grace did for the Christian and non-Christian alike. He said, “For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age…” (Titus 2.11-12). God’s grace teaches us, implying the grace of God to be law and also lawful. God put His grace, or favor, in His Son Jesus Christ. Paul stated, “You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus” (2 Tim. 2:1). When the grace of God is actively working in the life of a Christian, the fruit of that grace will be evident.

God’s grace is evident the eyes of man in and outside of the church. We can know for sure we are in the grace of God. Barnabas experienced the brethren walking in the grace of God and was glad; therefore he encouraged them to continue doing what they were doing in the Lord (Acts 11:22-23). Again, in Acts 13:42-43, Paul and Barnabas encouraged the Jews and devout proselytes to continue in the grace of God. Brethren, Paul said, “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1). We should take notes and do likewise with one another in the church .

Those who are saved must live in such a way to encourage and direct others to the church of Christ. Let us therefore do what we can to help those in need with the resources the God of heaven has granted us (Deut. 8:18). Since He is the One that gave us power to get wealth, let us glorify Him with the first fruits of our increase (Pro. 3:9). When we share our goods, this also demonstrates the grace of God in our lives. May the Lord continue to work through us, brethren. Hopefully we can allow the word of God to seep deep into our hearts and show Christ living in us, the hope of glory (Col. 1:27).

In conclusion, God’s grace is special and worthy of acceptance in our lives today and every day. Let us strive to be grateful to God the Father for His unspeakable gift. Let us forever remember the beauty of Jesus and Him bringing the grace of God to us (John 1:17). May we ever be thankful and keep in memory the need to know we are saved by grace through faith and that not of ourselves, it is the gift of God (Eph. 2.8). God is true.