The phrase "under grace" is a theological concept primarily derived from the Apostle Paul's writings in the New Testament, particularly in the book of Romans. It signifies a state of being in which believers in Jesus Christ are no longer subject to the law as a means of justification but are instead recipients of God's unmerited favor through faith in Christ.

Biblical Foundation

The key scripture that introduces the concept of being "under grace" is found in Romans 6:14: "For sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but under grace." . This verse highlights the transition from the Old Covenant, characterized by adherence to the Mosaic Law, to the New Covenant, where grace through faith in Jesus Christ is the means of salvation and sanctification.

Theological Implications

1. Freedom from the Law: Being "under grace" implies liberation from the legalistic requirements of the Mosaic Law. Paul contrasts the law, which reveals sin and brings condemnation, with grace, which offers forgiveness and life. In Romans 7:6, Paul writes, "But now, by dying to what once bound us, we have been released from the law so that we serve in the new way of the Spirit, and not in the old way of the written code." .

2. Empowerment to Overcome Sin: Grace is not merely a passive state of forgiveness but an active empowerment to live a life pleasing to God. Romans 6:15-18 explains that being under grace does not give license to sin; rather, it enables believers to become "slaves to righteousness." The grace of God teaches and empowers believers to renounce ungodliness and live upright lives (Titus 2:11-12).

3. Assurance of Salvation: Under grace, believers have the assurance of salvation, not based on their own works, but on the finished work of Christ. Ephesians 2:8-9 states, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast." . This assurance is rooted in the unchanging nature of God's promise and the sufficiency of Christ's atonement.

4. Relationship with God: Grace establishes a new relationship between God and believers, characterized by intimacy and sonship. Romans 8:15-16 describes this relationship: "For you did not receive a spirit of slavery that returns you to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship, by whom we cry, 'Abba! Father!' The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children." . This relationship is marked by love, acceptance, and the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.

Practical Application

Living under grace calls for a response of gratitude and obedience. Believers are encouraged to live lives that reflect the transformative power of grace, as seen in Romans 12:1-2, where Paul urges believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices and to be transformed by the renewing of their minds. This transformation is a work of grace that aligns believers with God's will and purpose.

In summary, being "under grace" is a profound and liberating truth that defines the believer's relationship with God, empowers them to live righteously, and assures them of eternal life through Jesus Christ. It is a central tenet of the Christian faith that underscores the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice and the transformative power of God's unmerited favor.