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 empowered to live a life pleasing to God. The concept of grace is woven throughout the Scriptures, emphasizing its importance in the life of a saint.Biblical Foundation The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, frequently underscores the necessity for believers to be strong in grace. In 2 Timothy 2:1, Paul exhorts Timothy, "You therefore, my child, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus" . This directive highlights the need for believers to rely not on their own strength but on the grace provided through Jesus Christ. Grace as Empowerment Grace is not merely a passive gift but an active force that empowers believers to live out their faith. In 1 Corinthians 15:10, Paul reflects on his own ministry, stating, "But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace to me was not in vain. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me" . Here, grace is depicted as the driving force behind Paul's labor and achievements, underscoring its role as a source of strength and motivation. Grace in Suffering and Weakness The strength found in grace is particularly evident in times of suffering and weakness. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, Paul recounts the Lord's response to his plea for relief from a "thorn in the flesh": "But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest on me" . This passage reveals that grace is sufficient to sustain believers, providing strength when human ability falls short. Living by Grace The call to be strong in grace is also a call to live a life characterized by grace. In Titus 2:11-12, Paul writes, "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 a manner that reflects their calling. Grace and Community The strength found in grace is not solely for individual benefit but is intended to build up the community of believers. In Ephesians 4:7, Paul states, "But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it" . This distribution of grace equips the saints for works of service, fostering unity and maturity within the body of Christ. Conclusion The call for saints to be strong in grace is a recurring theme in the New Testament, emphasizing reliance on God's unmerited favor for strength, empowerment, and guidance. Through grace, believers are equipped to face challenges, live righteously, and contribute to the growth and unity of the church. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Timothy 2:1You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library That the Jews Would Lose While we Should Receive the Bread and the ... Modern Examples of Prayer Weak Hands and Feeble Knees All Saints' Day The Pastor's Parting Blessing The Kingly Priesthood of the Saints The Pilgrim's Longings Ephesians iii. 11-Aug All Saints' Day Perseverance of Saints. Resources What is sanctifying grace? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is sovereign grace? | GotQuestions.org What is cheap 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 |
    |