Topical Encyclopedia In Christian theology, the concept of grace is central to understanding the relationship between God and humanity. Grace is often defined as the unmerited favor of God toward humanity, a gift that cannot be earned but is freely given. For the saints, or believers in Christ, being under grace signifies living in a state of divine favor and empowerment, distinct from the law's demands.Biblical Foundation The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, articulates the doctrine of grace with clarity and depth. In Romans 6:14 , Paul writes, "For sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but under grace." This verse highlights the transition from the Old Covenant, characterized by adherence to the law, to the New Covenant, where believers live under the grace of God. The law, while holy and good, revealed humanity's inability to achieve righteousness through works. Grace, however, provides the means for salvation and sanctification through faith in Jesus Christ. Grace and Salvation 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." Salvation is presented as a gift, emphasizing that it is not the result of human effort but the result of God's grace. This foundational truth assures believers that their standing before God is secure, not because of their own righteousness, but because of Christ's atoning work on the cross. Grace and Sanctification While grace is the means of salvation, it also plays a crucial role in the believer's sanctification. Titus 2:11-12 explains, "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." Here, grace is depicted as a teacher, guiding believers to live lives that reflect their new identity in Christ. It empowers them to overcome sin and grow in holiness. Grace and Freedom Being under grace also implies a new kind of freedom. Galatians 5:1 exhorts, "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not be encumbered once more by a yoke of slavery." This freedom is not a license to sin but liberation from the bondage of sin and the law. It allows believers to serve God out of love and gratitude rather than obligation. Grace and Community The grace that believers experience individually also extends to their relationships within the Christian community. In 1 Peter 4:10 , it is written, "As good stewards of the manifold grace of God, each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another." The manifold grace of God is expressed through the diverse gifts given to the church, fostering unity and mutual edification. Conclusion The concept of being under grace is a profound aspect of the Christian faith, encompassing salvation, sanctification, freedom, and community. It underscores the transformative power of God's unmerited favor, enabling believers to live lives that honor Him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Romans 6:14For sin shall not have dominion over you: for you are not under the law, but under grace. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Verse the Twenty-Fourth Under the Trials of this Life. The Perseverance of the Saints Pious Parents, under Such a Dispensation, May Conclude it is Well ... That the Example of Certain Saints who Seem to have Exercised ... A Short Proof against their Error that Say, that There is no ... Pardon of Sin Extends Over the Whole Mortal Life of the Saints ... Shewing Wherein all Saving Grace Does Summarily Consist" On the Invocation of Saints part 1 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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