04-29-25 part 2: Stumbling Stones and Solid Faith: The Gift We Didn’t Earn

1. From Rebellion to Redemption

Dr. Spoon begins by unpacking Romans 9:30–32, where Paul addresses how the Gentiles were made right with God by faith, even though they weren’t actively seeking Him. In contrast, the Jewish people, who zealously pursued righteousness through the law, missed it—because they tried to earn it by their own merit rather than by trusting in God's mercy. Dr. Spoon reflects on his own testimony, noting how God reached him during a season of complete disinterest in spiritual things. His personal transformation echoes the Apostle Paul’s message: God's grace isn’t based on pursuit or pedigree—it’s pure gift.

2. The Fallacy of Performance-Based Faith

Dr. Spoon powerfully reminds us that we often fall into the same trap as the early Jews—starting by grace and then slipping into works-based righteousness. He points out that many Christians try to earn their place in God’s favor by how well they pray, read Scripture, or serve, thinking that their spiritual activity makes them worthy. But it doesn’t. Only faith in Jesus justifies us. The moment we shift from resting in Christ to performing for His approval, we stumble just like they did. God isn’t looking for religious perfection—He’s looking for sincere faith and humble trust.

3. The Rock of Offense—and the Cornerstone

Paul refers to the prophecy in Isaiah 8:14 and 28:16, showing that Jesus is the “rock” placed in Zion. To some, He’s a cornerstone; to others, a stumbling block. Dr. Spoon emphasizes how pride often causes people to trip over God’s grace. We don’t want to be charity cases, but that’s exactly what grace requires us to be—recipients, not earners. Belief isn’t just a momentary feeling; it’s a lifestyle of ongoing faith. If we walk in that, we’ll never be disappointed. But if we try to forge our own righteousness, we’ll trip over the very answer God placed in our path: Jesus.

4. Receiving Isn’t Always Easy, But It’s Essential

The most challenging aspect of this teaching, Dr. Spoon confesses, is simply learning to receive. Many believers struggle with grace not because they doubt God’s love, but because they doubt they deserve it. But the message of the gospel is clear: no one deserves it—and everyone who believes gets it. Whether it’s healing, provision, or peace, God often puts blessings in our lives that we miss because of pride, self-effort, or guilt. Dr. Spoon urges us to live by faith daily, not just believe once and move on. Living faith isn’t about performance; it’s about partnership—with a Savior who never disappoints.