Topical Encyclopedia Grace, a central theme in Christian theology, is understood as the unmerited favor and love of God toward humanity. It is through grace that believers are saved, sanctified, and sustained in their spiritual journey. The concept of grace is foundational to the Christian faith, emphasizing that salvation and spiritual growth are gifts from God, not earned by human effort.Biblical Foundation of Grace The New Testament is replete with references to grace, highlighting its significance in the life of a believer. Ephesians 2:8-9 states, "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 that grace is the means by which salvation is received, emphasizing its divine origin and the exclusion of human merit. Grace and the Saints Saints, or believers in Christ, are called to be established in grace. This establishment is not a one-time event but a continual process of growth and reliance on God's grace. Hebrews 13:9 advises, "Do not be carried away by all kinds of strange teachings, for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace, not by foods, which are of no value to those devoted to them." Here, the author of Hebrews encourages believers to find their strength and stability in grace rather than in external rituals or teachings. Living in Grace The Apostle Paul frequently exhorted the early church to live in the grace they had received. In 2 Timothy 2:1 , Paul instructs Timothy, "You therefore, my child, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus." This call to strength in grace implies an active engagement with the grace of God, allowing it to empower and guide one's life and ministry. Grace as a Foundation for Growth Grace is not only the foundation of salvation but also the basis for spiritual growth and maturity. In 2 Peter 3:18 , believers are encouraged to "grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." This growth in grace involves a deeper understanding and experience of God's love and power, leading to a transformed life that reflects the character of Christ. The Role of Grace in Community The early Christian communities were marked by a shared experience of grace, which fostered unity and mutual edification. Acts 4:33 records, "With great power the apostles continued to give their testimony about the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and abundant grace was upon them all." This abundant grace enabled the believers to live in harmony, support one another, and bear witness to the world. Conclusion While grace is a divine gift, believers are called to actively participate in it, allowing it to shape their lives and communities. By being established in grace, saints are equipped to navigate the challenges of life, grow in holiness, and fulfill their calling as witnesses of Christ's transformative power. Torrey's Topical Textbook Hebrews 13:9Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Whether the Time of Our Resurrection Should be Delayed Till the ... The Law Established through Faith In what Respects Predestination and Grace Differ. Of Another Kind of Perverted Men The Law Established through Faith Whether Grace is Necessarily Given to Whoever Prepares Himself for ... Letter v. --For 333. Easter-Day , Coss. Dalmatius and Zenophilus ... Concerning Perseverance, and the Possibility of Falling from Grace ... That the Example of Certain Saints who Seem to have Exercised ... Growth in Grace 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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