What Is Meant by Grace in the Bible?
Grace is a term we often hear in sermons, read in scripture, and sometimes even use in everyday life. But what is meant by “grace” in the Bible, and how does it affect our lives as believers today? Grace, as defined by the Word of God, is more than just kindness. It’s an incredible gift given by God—one that we could never earn on our own.
Understanding the depth of grace and what it means for us changes the way we view our relationship with God and how we live each day.
What is Meant By "Grace" in the Bible?
When we look at the original language of the Bible, the word "grace" comes from the Greek word charis (Strong’s G5485), which means "favor," "blessing," or "kindness." However, in the context of the scriptures, grace specifically refers to the unmerited favor of God toward humanity. It is a gift that cannot be earned through human effort or good deeds. Grace is God's decision to offer us love, salvation, and mercy, despite our flaws and failures.
In his letter to the Romans, Paul reminds us of this:
“God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. ”
Grace is not something we deserve, but it is freely given to us through Jesus Christ.
The Law and Grace
Before Jesus came to the world, the people of God were under the Law. The Law served as a guideline for righteous living, but as Romans 3:20 points out, “For by works of the law no human being will be justified in his sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin.” The Law revealed sin but could not save humanity from it.
It wasn’t until Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection that the barrier between humanity and God was removed. Jesus became the sacrificial lamb who bore our sins so that grace could reign.
Romans 3:23-24 says, "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.”
His sacrifice granted us access to the grace of God—something that the Law could never achieve on its own.
What Grace Means for Us Today
So, what does grace mean for us in our world today? Grace transforms the way we live our lives. It is not only the means by which we are saved, but also a force that shapes our walk with God. Through grace, we are empowered to live righteously, fulfill our God-given purpose, and continue to grow in our faith.
Grace is the Means to Salvation
First and foremost, grace is essential to our salvation. No number of good deeds, no level of human righteousness, can ever be enough to earn salvation.
“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.”
Our salvation is a direct result of God’s grace—his unearned favor poured out on us. We don't earn grace through our actions, nor can we claim credit for our own salvation. It is purely God's love for us that grants us this incredible gift.
Grace Strengthens Us to Be Better
In addition to salvation, grace is the source of our strength to live righteously. We are incapable of living a holy life on our own. However, God’s grace empowers us to overcome our sinful nature and pursue goodness.
2 Corinthians 9:8 says, "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.” It is through his grace that we find the ability to do good works and live a life that reflects His holiness.
Furthermore, in the book of Titus, we see that the grace of God not only saves us but also instructs us to live godly lives:
“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives.”
God's grace doesn't just save us—it teaches and strengthens us to live according to his will.
Grace Prompts Us to Purpose
Grace doesn’t just save us from our sins and strengthen us to do good; it also sets us on a path of purpose. God’s grace has a specific plan for each of us within his kingdom. 2 Timothy 1:9 reminds us that God "saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace.” This shows that our calling isn’t based on our merit but on his grace.
Moreover, 1 Peter 4:10 states, “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace” (ESV). God’s grace equips us with unique gifts, talents, and abilities that are meant to be used to further his kingdom and bring glory to his name.
The Most Precious Gift
Grace is truly the most remarkable gift God has given to humanity. It is through grace that we are saved, strengthened, and called to a life of purpose. We could never earn or deserve it, but God's unmerited favor is extended to us out of his love and mercy.
As we continue our walk with God together, let us remember that everything we have and everything we can accomplish in him is because of his grace working in our lives. Through grace, we are empowered to live out our calling and fulfill the purpose God has set before us!