Topical Encyclopedia The concept of grace is central to Christian theology, representing the unmerited favor and love of God toward humanity. This divine grace is most gloriously exhibited in the believer's acceptance in Christ, a theme that permeates the New Testament and underscores the transformative power of God's love.Biblical Foundation The Apostle Paul, in his epistle to the Ephesians, articulates the glory of grace in the context of our acceptance in Christ: "to the praise of His glorious grace, which He has freely given us in the Beloved One" (Ephesians 1:6). This passage highlights that grace is not only a gift but also a reflection of God's glory, bestowed upon believers through their union with Christ, the "Beloved One." The Nature of Grace Grace, by its very nature, is unearned and undeserved. It is a divine initiative that originates from God's character and is extended to humanity through Jesus Christ. Romans 3:24 states, "and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus" . Here, grace is depicted as the means by which believers are justified, emphasizing that it is not by human effort but by God's gracious provision. Acceptance in Christ The acceptance of believers in Christ is a profound demonstration of grace. In 2 Corinthians 5:21, Paul writes, "God made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God" . This exchange—Christ taking on sin and believers receiving His righteousness—illustrates the depth of grace that enables acceptance before a holy God. The Glory of Grace The glory of grace is further magnified in its transformative effect on the believer's life. Titus 2:11-12 declares, "For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men. It instructs us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live sensible, upright, and godly lives in the present age" . Grace not only saves but also sanctifies, guiding believers to live in a manner that reflects God's holiness and glory. Union with Christ The believer's union with Christ is the locus of grace's glory. In Colossians 1:27, Paul speaks of "Christ in you, the hope of glory" . This indwelling presence of Christ is the assurance of grace's ongoing work, transforming believers and securing their acceptance before God. It is through this union that the glory of grace is continually exhibited, as believers are conformed to the image of Christ. Eternal Perspective The glory of grace in our acceptance in Christ also carries an eternal dimension. Ephesians 2:7 reveals, "in order that in the coming ages He might display the surpassing riches of His grace, demonstrated by His kindness to us in Christ Jesus" . This future display of grace underscores its inexhaustible nature and the eternal purpose of God in redeeming a people for Himself. Conclusion The glory of grace, as exhibited in our acceptance in Christ, is a testament to the boundless love and mercy of God. It is a theme that resonates throughout Scripture, inviting believers to marvel at the divine favor that secures their place in the family of God and empowers them to live for His glory. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ephesians 1:6To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he has made us accepted in the beloved. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Christ's Resurrection and Our Newness of Life The New Covenant: a Covenant of Grace Letter i. The Christian's Mark. Friends, or Quakers. The Scripture Way of Salvation Christ Glorified as the Builder of his Church The Way to God Of the Nature of Regeneration, and Particularly of the Change it ... The Hope of the Calling Covenanting Provided for in the Everlasting Covenant. Resources What is the meaning of “grace upon grace” in John 1:16? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the definition of grace? | GotQuestions.org What is prevenient grace? | GotQuestions.org Grace: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Grace is Described as All-Abundant Grace is Described as All-Sufficient Grace is Described as Exceeding Grace is Described as Glorious Grace is Described as Manifold Grace is Described as Sovereign Grace is the Source of Consolation Grace is the Source of Election Grace is the Source of Forgiveness of Sins Grace is the Source of Justification Grace is the Source of Salvation Grace is the Source of The Call of God Grace of God: General Scriptures Concerning Grace: Beware Lest You Fail of Grace: Foretold by the Prophets Grace: Glory of, Exhibited in Our Acceptance in Christ Grace: God's Throne, the Throne of Grace: God's Work Completed in Saints By Grace: Inheritance of the Promises By Grace: Justification By, Opposed to That by Works Grace: Manifestation of, in Others, a Cause of Gladness Grace: Necessary to the Service of God Grace: Not to be Received in Vain Grace: Pray for for Yourselves Grace: Riches of, Exhibited in God's Kindness Through Christ Grace: Saints are What They are By Grace: Saints: Abound in Gifts of Grace: Saints: Receive, from Christ Grace: Saints: should be Established In Grace: Saints: should be Strong In Grace: Saints: should Speak With Grace: Special Manifestation of, at the Second Coming of Christ Grace: Specially Given: To Ministers Grace: Specially Given: To the Humble Grace: Specially Given: To Those Who Walk Uprightly Grace: The Gospel, a Declaration of Grace: The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Grace: The Success and Completion of the Work of God to Be Related Terms |
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