Grace Defined

In Christian theology, grace is understood as the unmerited favor and love of God toward humanity. It is a central theme in the Bible, reflecting God's benevolence and mercy. Grace is not something that can be earned or deserved; it is a gift freely given by God. The Apostle Paul emphasizes this in Ephesians 2:8-9 : "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."

The Nature of God's Grace

God's grace is multifaceted, encompassing various aspects of His relationship with humanity. It is both prevenient, going before us to prepare the way, and efficacious, effectively bringing about salvation. Titus 2:11 states, "For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men." This grace is transformative, enabling believers to live godly lives and empowering them to fulfill God's purposes.

Grace in the Old Testament

While the New Testament explicitly articulates the doctrine of grace, the Old Testament also reveals God's gracious character. The Hebrew word "chesed," often translated as "lovingkindness" or "steadfast love," reflects God's covenantal grace. In Exodus 34:6 , God proclaims His nature to Moses: "The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and truth."

Grace in the New Testament

The New Testament further develops the concept of grace, particularly through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. John 1:14 declares, "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." Jesus embodies God's grace, offering redemption and reconciliation through His sacrificial death and resurrection.

God's Choice and Election

The doctrine of election, or God's choice, is closely related to His grace. It refers to God's sovereign decision to choose certain individuals or groups for a specific purpose or destiny. This choice is not based on human merit but on God's will and purpose. Romans 9:15-16 illustrates this: "For He says to Moses: 'I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.' So then, it does not depend on man's desire or effort, but on God's mercy."

Election in the Old Testament

In the Old Testament, God's choice is evident in His selection of Israel as His chosen people. Deuteronomy 7:6-8 explains, "For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you to be a people for His prized possession, above all peoples on the face of the earth. The LORD did not set His affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples. But it was because the LORD loved you and kept the oath He swore to your fathers."

Election in the New Testament

In the New Testament, the concept of election extends to the Church, the body of believers in Christ. Ephesians 1:4-5 states, "For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence. In love He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will." This election is a source of assurance and comfort for believers, affirming that their salvation is secure in God's sovereign plan.

Interplay of Grace and Choice

The interplay between God's grace and choice underscores the mystery of divine sovereignty and human responsibility. While God's grace initiates and sustains salvation, human response through faith is also essential. Philippians 2:12-13 captures this dynamic: "Therefore, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence but now even more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose."

In summary, God's grace and choice are foundational to understanding His redemptive work in the world. They reveal His character as a loving and sovereign God who desires to bring humanity into a relationship with Himself.