Topical Encyclopedia Grace, a central theme in Christian theology, is understood as the unmerited favor and love of God towards humanity. It is by grace that believers are saved, transformed, and sustained in their spiritual journey. The concept of grace is foundational to the identity and life of the saints, who are what they are by the grace of God.Biblical Foundation of Grace The New Testament provides a profound exposition of grace, particularly in the writings of the Apostle Paul. In Ephesians 2:8-9 , Paul declares, "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 salvation is a divine gift, not a human achievement, emphasizing the transformative power of grace in the life of a believer. Grace is not only the means of salvation but also the sustaining force in the believer's life. In 2 Corinthians 12:9 , Paul recounts the Lord's assurance to him: "My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness." Here, grace is depicted as the divine strength that empowers believers to endure trials and weaknesses, highlighting its role in the sanctification process. Grace and the Identity of Saints The saints, or holy ones, are those who have been set apart by God through His grace. In 1 Corinthians 15:10 , Paul reflects on his own transformation, stating, "But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace to me was not in vain." This acknowledgment reveals that the identity and accomplishments of the saints are rooted in God's grace, not in their own merit or effort. Grace also fosters a spirit of humility and gratitude among the saints. Recognizing that their status as children of God is a result of divine grace, believers are called to live lives marked by thankfulness and service. Romans 12:3 advises, "For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but think of yourself with sober judgment, according to the measure of faith God has given you." The Transformative Power of Grace Grace is not static; it is dynamic and transformative. Titus 2:11-12 teaches, "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." This passage illustrates that grace not only saves but also instructs and empowers believers to live in a manner that reflects their calling as saints. The transformative nature of grace is further exemplified in the fruit of the Spirit, as described in Galatians 5:22-23 . The virtues of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are manifestations of a life transformed by grace, evidencing the work of the Holy Spirit in the believer. Grace as the Foundation of Christian Community Grace is also the foundation of Christian community and fellowship. In Colossians 3:13 , believers are exhorted to "bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against someone else. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." The grace that believers have received from God becomes the model and motivation for extending grace to others, fostering unity and love within the body of Christ. Moreover, grace equips the saints for service and ministry. 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." This passage highlights that the diverse gifts within the church are expressions of God's grace, intended for the edification and growth of the community. In summary, grace is the divine influence that shapes the identity, character, and mission of the saints. It is by grace that believers are saved, transformed, and empowered to live lives that reflect the glory of God. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Corinthians 15:10But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed on me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Corinthians 1:12 Library The Saints Shall Know More Fully in the Next World the Benefits ... Of Gratitude for the Grace of God The Perseverance of the Saints [Shewing] that Common and Saving Grace Differ, not Only in Degree ... Of Deeper Matters, and God's Hidden Judgments which are not to be ... The Tenth Chapter: Appreciating God's Grace The Communion of Saints. That the Example of Certain Saints who Seem to have Exercised ... On the Invocation of Saints The Fifty-Eighth Chapter: High Matters and the Hidden Judgments of ... 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 |
    |