A Kind of Omnipotency in It
Faith is an appropriating grace that gives us confidence in God's power and guidance, allowing us to overcome any obstacle.
Thomas Brooks emphasizes the power of faith as an appropriating grace that allows believers to claim God's promises and attributes as their own. He illustrates how faith enables individuals to declare God as their eternal guide, to embrace their identity in Christ, and to lay hold of the righteousness, mercy, power, wisdom, and salvation offered through Jesus. This kind of faith possesses a unique omnipotency, empowering believers to navigate life's challenges with confidence in God's provision and support.
Text
Faith is an appropriating grace.
Faith looks upon God, and says with David,
"This God is my God forever and ever, and
He shall be my guide unto the death."
Faith looks upon Christ, and says with the spouse,
"I am my beloved's, and His desire is towards me."
Faith looks upon an immortal crown, and says
"Henceforth is laid up for me a crown of glory."
Faith looks upon the righteousness of Christ,
and says, "This righteousness is mine to cover me."
Faith looks upon the mercy of Christ, and
says, "This mercy is mine to pardon me."
Faith looks upon the power of Christ, and
says, "This power is mine to support me."
Faith looks upon the wisdom of Christ, and
says, "This wisdom is mine to direct me."
Faith looks upon the blood of Christ, and
says, "This blood is mine to save me."
Faith has a kind of omnipotency in it;
it is able to do all things.
Sermon Outline
- Faith is an appropriating grace
- Faith has a kind of omnipotency in it
- Faith looks upon God and claims Him as our guide
- Faith looks upon Christ and claims His righteousness and mercy
- Faith is able to do all things
- Faith gives us confidence in God's power
Key Quotes
“This God is my God forever and ever, and He shall be my guide unto the death.” — Thomas Brooks
“This righteousness is mine to cover me.” — Thomas Brooks
“This blood is mine to save me.” — Thomas Brooks
Application Points
- We can apply faith by looking upon God and Christ, and claiming their power and guidance in our lives.
- Faith gives us the ability to do all things and overcome any obstacle.
- We can have confidence in God's power and guidance when we have faith.