What God's Grace Means to Christians

Grace, which comes from the Greek New Testament word charis, is God's unmerited favor. It is kindness from God that we don't deserve. There is nothing we have done, nor can ever do to earn this favor. It is a gift from God. Grace is divine assistance given to humans for their regeneration (rebirth) or sanctification; a virtue coming from God; a state of sanctification enjoyed through divine favor.

Webster's New World College Dictionary provides this theological definition of grace: "The unmerited love and favor of God toward human beings; divine influence acting in a person to make the person pure, morally strong; the condition of a person brought to God's favor through this influence; a special virtue, gift, or help given to a person by God."

God's Grace and Mercy

In Christianity, God's grace and God's mercy are often confused. Although they are similar expressions of his favor and love, they possess a clear distinction. When we experience God's grace, we receive favor that we do not deserve. When we experience God's mercy, we are spared punishment that we do deserve.

Amazing Grace

God's grace is truly amazing. Not only does it provide for our salvation, it enables us to live an abundant life in Jesus Christ:

2 Corinthians 9:8
And God is able to make all grace abound to you so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. (ESV)

God's grace is available to us at all times, for every problem and need we face. God's grace frees us from slavery to sin, guilt, and shame. God's grace allows us to pursue good works. God's grace enables us to be all that God intends us to be. God's grace is amazing indeed.

Examples of Grace in the Bible

John 1:16-17
For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. (ESV)

Romans 3:23-24
... for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus ... (ESV)

Romans 6:14
For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace. (ESV)

Ephesians 2:8
For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God ... (ESV)

Titus 2:11
For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people ... (ESV)