Simon’s sermon, “The Miracle of the Method,” is a profound exploration of God’s grace and salvation plan as revealed in Paul’s letter to the Romans. The pastor begins by addressing a crucial question: Has God turned away from Israel? This inquiry serves as a launching point to discuss God’s unfailing love and grace, not just for Israel, but for all people.
Simon shares a personal anecdote of feeling beyond God’s reach, relating it to Israel’s history of backsliding and God’s consistent faithfulness. He emphasizes that the story of Israel is not just one of rebellion, but of redemption, illustrating God’s unwavering commitment to His promises.
The sermon then delves into Romans 11:33, “Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God!” Simon unpacks this verse, explaining the vastness of God’s grace, wisdom, and knowledge. He uses various scriptures, including Ephesians 1:7-8 and 1 Corinthians 1:30, to illustrate that God’s riches are His grace, and that Jesus is the embodiment of God’s wisdom.
Simon emphasizes that salvation comes solely through God’s grace, not through our efforts or heritage. He explains that God’s wisdom is His skill in grace, and His knowledge informs this wisdom. The pastor marvels at how God’s knowledge of our weaknesses and sins doesn’t drive Him away, but rather draws Him closer to us.
The sermon addresses the common human tendency to doubt such overwhelming grace, acknowledging that it often seems too good to be true. Simon challenges this skepticism, inviting listeners to trust in God’s extravagant love and freely offered salvation. He references Isaiah 55:1-3 and 55:8-9 to reinforce the idea of God’s ways being higher than our understanding.
Throughout the sermon, Simon weaves in numerous Biblical references, including John 3:16, 2 Corinthians 8:2, Luke 5:4, Ephesians 2:7, Colossians 2:3, and Hebrews 4:13, among others. These scriptures serve to reinforce his points and provide a solid Biblical foundation for his message.
In his conclusion, Simon offers a powerful reassurance that no one is beyond God’s grace. He states, “There is no sin so great that His blood can’t cover it. There is no failure so deep that His hand can’t reach into it.” The pastor encourages his listeners to embrace God’s grace, reminding them that the God who redeemed Israel is still in the business of redeeming people today.
This sermon serves as a comforting reminder of God’s boundless love and grace, offering hope to those who may feel unworthy or beyond redemption. Simon’s message emphasizes the “miracle of the method” – that God’s plan of salvation through Jesus Christ is a testament to His unfathomable grace, available to all who would receive it.