Topical Encyclopedia Grace, in the Christian theological context, is understood as the unmerited favor and love that God bestows upon humanity. It is a central theme in the Bible, reflecting God's benevolence and mercy towards His creation. The concept of grace is foundational to the Christian faith, emphasizing that salvation and blessings are gifts from God, not earned by human effort.Biblical Foundation The New Testament is replete with references to God's grace, highlighting its significance in the life of believers. In Ephesians 2:8-9 , the Apostle Paul writes, "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." This passage underscores the belief that salvation is a divine gift, not a result of human deeds, thus eliminating any grounds for personal boasting. God's Initiative God's grace is portrayed as His initiative in reaching out to humanity. Romans 5:8 states, "But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." This verse illustrates that God's grace is proactive, demonstrated through the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ for the redemption of sinners. It is an expression of divine love that precedes human response. Sustaining Grace Beyond salvation, God's grace is also seen as sustaining believers in their daily lives. In 2 Corinthians 12:9 , Paul recounts God's assurance to him: "But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.'" Here, grace is depicted as a source of strength and sufficiency, enabling believers to endure trials and weaknesses with divine support. Abundance of Grace The abundance of God's grace is a recurring theme in Scripture. Romans 5:20 declares, "But where sin increased, grace increased all the more." This passage highlights the superabundance of grace that surpasses the magnitude of sin, offering hope and redemption to all who believe. Means of Grace God's grace is often mediated through various means, including the Word of God, sacraments, and prayer. These are seen as channels through which believers experience and grow in grace. Acts 20:32 emphasizes the role of Scripture: "And now I commit you to God and to the word of His grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all who are sanctified." Transformative Power The transformative power of grace is evident in the lives of believers, leading to sanctification and spiritual growth. Titus 2:11-12 states, "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 instructs and empowers believers to live in accordance with God's will. Conclusion Grace, as a divine gift, is central to the Christian understanding of God's relationship with humanity. It is through grace that believers are saved, sustained, and transformed, reflecting the boundless love and mercy of God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 84:11For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. Torrey's Topical Textbook James 1:17 Library The Tenth Chapter: Appreciating God's Grace Whether by his Own Natural Powers and Without Grace Man Can Love ... The Unknown Giver and the Misused Gifts The Incarnation as Prime Example of the Action of God's Grace Of Gratitude for the Grace of God Sober Thinking The Grace of God. Access into Grace The Same Grace is Further Clearly Manifested in This, that the ... The Water of Life (Preached at Westminster Abbey) Resources Are baptism and communion means of grace? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to be saved by grace? | GotQuestions.org Irresistible Grace - is it biblical? | 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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