Theological concept · kjv
What Is Grace?
Grace is the defining word of Christian faith — the unearned, unmerited favor of God toward sinners. Everything in the gospel hangs on it.
Biblical Foundation
The Greek word charis — translated "grace" — means favor, kindness, a gift given freely without regard for the recipient's merit. The Hebrew equivalent, chen, appears throughout the Old Testament (Noah "found grace" in Genesis 6:8). But the doctrine of grace reaches its full expression in the New Testament, particularly in Paul's letters, where it becomes the explicit contrast to "works of the law." Grace is not God overlooking sin; it is God dealing with sin at the cross so that he can give what we do not deserve. The Reformation made sola gratia — "by grace alone" — a cornerstone: we are saved not because of anything in us but only because of what God has done.
How Grace Works in Christian Life
Christians live in grace in several dimensions. Common grace is God's goodness poured out on all — rain on the just and unjust. Saving grace rescues sinners and unites them to Christ. Sanctifying grace shapes believers over time into the likeness of Christ. Glorifying grace completes the work at the resurrection. A Christian life is, at every stage, receiving and passing on what cannot be earned.
Scripture for Grace
Ephesians 2:8
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.”
John 1:16
“And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.”
2 Corinthians 12:9
“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”
Romans 5:20
“Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound.”
Titus 2:11
“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What does grace mean in the Bible?
Biblical grace is unearned favor — God's kindness given freely to people who have no claim on it. It is not overlooking sin but providing at the cross what justice demands, so that the gift can be given without compromising righteousness.
What is the difference between grace and mercy?
A traditional distinction: mercy is not receiving the punishment we deserve. Grace is receiving the blessing we do not deserve. Both flow from God's character — and in the gospel they meet: mercy removes the sentence, grace adds sonship.
Is grace a license to sin?
Paul anticipated this question in Romans 6: "Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? God forbid." Grace is not permission to sin but power not to. It does not lower God's standard; it empowers a transformed life toward it.
Can grace be earned?
By definition, no. The moment grace is earned, it stops being grace and becomes wages (Romans 4:4). The scandal of the gospel is that grace is given to the undeserving — and that is precisely its power.