Grace, a central theme in Christian theology, is understood as the unmerited favor and love of God toward humanity. It is a divine gift that is foundational to the Christian faith, emphasizing God's benevolence and mercy. The concept of grace is woven throughout the Bible, highlighting its significance in the relationship between God and humankind.

Biblical Foundation

The New Testament provides a comprehensive understanding of grace, particularly through the writings of the Apostle Paul. In Ephesians 2:8-9 , 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 gift from God, not earned by human effort but granted through His grace.

In Romans 3:23-24 , Paul further elaborates, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus." Here, grace is depicted as the means by which believers are justified and redeemed, highlighting its role in the process of salvation.

The Nature of Grace

Grace is often described as both prevenient and efficacious. Prevenient grace refers to the grace that precedes human decision, drawing individuals toward God and enabling them to respond to His call. Efficacious grace, on the other hand, is the grace that effectively brings about the intended result of salvation in the lives of believers.

The Apostle John also speaks to the fullness of grace in Jesus Christ. In John 1:16-17 , it is written, "From His fullness we have all received grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ." This passage contrasts the law with grace, emphasizing that while the law was given through Moses, grace and truth are realized through Jesus Christ.

Grace in the Life of Believers

Grace is not only the means of salvation but also a sustaining force in the life of believers. It empowers Christians to live according to God's will and to grow in spiritual maturity. In 2 Corinthians 12:9 , the Lord tells Paul, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness." This assurance of grace provides strength and support, enabling believers to endure trials and weaknesses.

Furthermore, grace is a catalyst for good works. 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." Here, grace is portrayed as a teacher, guiding believers to live lives that reflect their faith.

The Abundance of Grace

The abundance and richness of God's grace are emphasized throughout Scripture. In Romans 5:20-21 , Paul declares, "But where sin increased, grace increased all the more, so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." This passage highlights the superabundance of grace, which surpasses the power of sin and leads to eternal life.

Grace, as a spiritual gift from God, is a profound expression of His love and mercy. It is the foundation of the Christian experience, offering salvation, empowerment, and guidance to all who believe. Through grace, believers are drawn into a deeper relationship with God, experiencing His transformative power in their lives.Psalm 84:11
For 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 4:6
But he gives more grace. Why he said, God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

5486. charisma -- a gift of grace, a free gift
... 5486 ("grace-gift") divinely empowers a believer to share God's work with others ...
Word Usage favor (1), free gift (3), gift (5), gifts (7), spiritual gift (1). ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5486.htm - 7k

Spiritual Gifts.
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/.../kuyper/the work of the holy spirit/xxxvii spiritual gifts.htm

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Of a Spiritual Meeting of God and Ourselves
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is able to ... in God, above all creatures and above all God's gifts, above all the ...
/.../john/the adornment of the spritual marriage/chapter xxv of a spiritual.htm

The Spiritual Gifts.
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the saving love of God in Christ ... but the soul of all the gifts, guarding them ...
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The Tenth Chapter: Appreciating God's Grace
... indeed, are either vain or base, while spiritual joys, born ... does evil in not returning
everything gratefully to God. Thus, the gifts of grace cannot flow in us ...
/.../kempis/the imitation of christ/the tenth chapter appreciating gods.htm

Letter xvi. --The Operations of Grace.
... I have read your letter with much consolation and spiritual joy. ... The soul will thus
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/.../abandonment to divine providence/letter xvi the operations of grace.htm

Access into Grace
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/.../maclaren/romans corinthians to ii corinthians chap v/access into grace.htm

The Gifts of the Holy Spirit which we Receive Prepare us for ...
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/.../irenaeus/against heresies/chapter viii the gifts of the.htm

Of Gratitude for the Grace of God
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/.../kempis/imitation of christ/chapter x of gratitude for.htm

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/.../the spiritual guide which disentangles the soul/chap iv of two spiritual.htm

Are the miraculous gifts of the Spirit for today? | GotQuestions.org

What are the spiritual gifts of the word of wisdom and the word of knowledge? | GotQuestions.org

Is there a biblical spiritual gifts list? | GotQuestions.org

Gifts: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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