The Passing Grade

II Timothy 1:9 "Who has saved us, and has called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to HIS own purpose and grace, which is given us in Christ Jesus before the world began..."

Were you a good student? What if you had a professor who gave you a guarantee of an A before you even took his class? That is exactly what one seminary professor did for his evangelism class. Prior to the final exam he cautioned the students to read the 25 page exam through thoroughly before answering any of the questions.  Halfway through the reading it became painstakingly clear to the students that they had not studied nearly enough. It was obvious that this test was designed so that no one could make a passing grade! Those who endured until the end found a note attached to the last page saying, "You have a choice. You may either complete the exam as given or simply sign your name at the bottom. Should you do the latter you will automatically receive an A for this class." Stunned the students sat in silence wondering if this could really be possible.

 Many students failed to heed the professor's warnings and endured the entire grueling exam only to find that they could have easily made an A simply by signing their names. A handful of students became furious after only a few pages and stormed out of the class believing it was impossible to pass the exam. As a result the lost out on what was freely offered to them. A few of them read the exam all the way through, including the note, but decided to work for their grade. The highest score was a C-, all else failed miserably! Gladly, however, many of the students upon reading the note at the end of the exam simply signed their names and turned in the exam without ever answering a question. All of those students received an A for the entire class! The purpose of the professor's exam was so that the seminary students would understand GOD'S Grace.

Each of us have received an A, a free pass to Heaven and full acceptance with our Heavenly Father through the shed blood of Jesus Christ before the world was formed. All we have to do is sign up by saying "Yes" to HIS Salvation plan. Sadly, many will live their entire lives attempting to work out their Salvation before they discover that it is freely given. Others will knowingly attempt to earn their Salvation in-spite of knowing that it is a free gift. Unfortunately there are untold millions who will reject Salvation because they are convinced that it is impossible for them to receive it.  Then there are those who have gladly accepted GOD'S free gift and simply "signed their names". Which group best describes you? Will you sign up and receive the free gift of Salvation which