God’s Grace?

“God’s grace.” I hear that, or similarly the “grace of God,” in prayers, during sermons, or while reading the Bible. I have heard it so often that it has become a catchphrase—accepted, sometimes exploited, but rarely examined. I have understood it to mean undeserved favor: something God grants that he does not have to, but wants to regardless of who I am. But is that all God’s grace is?

Once again, the verse of the day upset my perception. Reading Titus 2:11-12 caused me to wonder if there was more to God’s grace than my simple understanding. These two verses end with a comma, letting me know that the sentence and the thought are incomplete. Verse 11 by itself undergirds my simplistic understanding, but verse 12 brought the AHA. Verse 13 completes the sentence and verse 14 completes the thought. God’s grace is not just something that falls upon me and I passively accept. As I have been learning, I must participate in this relationship I have with God, including receiving grace.

What is God’s grace?

• It is an unearned gift from God. Ephesians 2:8-9 tells me that I cannot earn grace. Good deeds cannot buy God’s grace. It is a gift God bestows. I should do God’s work, not to earn grace, but to simply do what is right.
• It is my strategic plan. Psalm 90:17 states that grace “establishes the works of my hands.” Although I cannot work my way into God’s good graces, God’s grace will direct my efforts for his purpose.
• It is forged by Jesus’ sacrifice. 2 Timothy 1:8-11 affirms that grace is a result of the death and resurrection of Jesus as the sacrificial lamb for my sins. God’s grace flows from this sacrifice.
• It is good news. Acts 20:24 attests to the good news that is God’s grace. Because of Jesus’ sacrifice, the good news is I am a child of God.
• It is demanding. 2 Chronicles 30:9b[1] reminds me that God is gracious IF I remain in him. Also, Titus 2:12-13 teaches me that God’s grace requires action from me, rejecting ungodliness and worldly desires while living soberly, righteously, and godly.

Catchphrases and clichés heard during prayers, sermons, gospel songs, and Bible studies can impart purpose for my spiritual journey if I take time to consider their true import. It is my responsibility to confirm their theological validity.

Reflection: What phrase have you heard during a spiritual encounter that you accepted without considering its true meaning? What meaning does that phrase have for your spiritual growth?

[1] “For the Lord your God is gracious and merciful and will not turn away his face from you, if you return to him.” 2 Chronicles 30:9b, New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition