“The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.” – Philippians 4:23 

Scripture Reading: Philippians 4:21-23 and Romans 1:13-17

Paul’s closing words bring us back to Philippians 1 and his blessing that God’s “grace” would be upon his friends in Philippi. How rich is that word “grace”, which speaks of the unmerited favour of God to sinners for salvation in Jesus Christ! There is no one deserving of salvation, yet God, in His Son has wrought salvation for sinners like us! This was the glorious truth that Martin Luther rediscovered as He studied the Scriptures and the precious teachings of God in the Psalms and in the books Romans and Galatians. For we are not justified before God by works and the keeping of the Law. We are justified by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone!

Thus, Paul ends his letter as he began it, with grace! Even his closing words speak to this. Notice who some of the saints are that send greetings to Philippi, “those who are of Caesar’s household”! (v.22). Paul mentioned back in chapter 1 that to the “whole palace guard” and “to all the rest”, this good news of salvation in Christ had been preached! How awesome it is to think that some in Caesar’s own household came to saving faith in Christ! How glorious are the ways of God!

Yes, on this Reformation Day, we give thanks for God’s grace to His church, restoring to her the Word, the Holy Bible, and the pure gospel that our salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone and for His glory alone!

Suggestions for prayer

Let us rejoice and give thanks for God’s rich grace to us in Jesus Christ! May the Solas of the Reformation continue to form the solid foundation upon which the church takes her stand before her enemies!

Rev. Ancel Merwin serves as minister of the Immanuel United Reformed Church of Listowel, Ontario, Canada. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. It is also available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.