What Does God’s Grace Do?

We often define grace as “unmerited favor.” Grace is where we receive what we do not deserve (in terms of blessing). We would be right to associate God’s grace with the sacrifice Jesus made on the cross (Gal 2:21; Heb 2:9; Rom 5:15-20). Certainly, God’s grace is found in Jesus Christ, but what does God’s grace do? Let’s explore God’s Word on this question.

God’s grace indicates love for mankind. The favor or good will of God is not something to be overlooked. You can better understand this idea when contemplating the cost of God’s grace. The life of God’s Son was lovingly given as a substitutionary sacrifice on the cross. Jesus is the embodiment of God’s grace toward mankind (Eph 2:4-7; 5:2; 1 John 4:10, 19). This indication of Heaven’s care was extended, not to a pure people but to sinners (Rom 5:8).

God’s grace saves mankind. The scriptures show grace and salvation as being inseparably linked. Simply put, no one can be saved apart from the grace of God. Salvation is brought to humanity by grace (Eph 2:8; Tit 2:11). When the New Testament speaks of having a good relationship with God, it is “this grace in which we stand” (Rom 5:1-2; 1 Pet 5:12). We stand in God’s grace when we become true children of God, those who have put on Christ and have received what He has authored (Gal 3:26-27; Eph 1:3-7; Heb 5:8-9). God enables us to approach His throne of grace by having Jesus as our perfect High Priest (Heb 4:14-16).

God’s grace presents opportunity to mankind. Some hold to a doctrine of universal salvation because God’s grace has appeared to all men. In truth, mankind has universal opportunity through God’s grace, but not universal salvation (Acts 10:34-35; 2 Cor 5:14-15). The grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, but not all men will accept it! In fact, the majority will reject the gift of God’s grace (Matt 7:13-14). God continues to allow free will and He does not force His grace upon anyone that refuses it. God has always presented a choice (Deut 30:19; Josh 24:15). This is also why we read warnings against falling from God’s grace (Gal 1:6-7; 5:4; 2 Pet 2:20-22).

God’s grace provides a teaching for mankind. This truth eludes many who claim a relationship with Christ. God’s grace comes bearing a message, teaching us to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts. The grace of God teaches us to live soberly, righteously, and godly (Tit 2:11-12). One cannot enjoy the benefits of grace while disobeying its direction! Similarly, Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord (Gen 6:8). The grace of God came with a teaching – build the ark (Gen 6:13-22). Would Noah have been delivered by God if he had refused to follow His instructions? Of course not!

Let us decide to avail ourselves of God’s grace and show our faith in continuing actions of obedience and faithful Christian service (Rom 12:1-2; Eph 2:8-10; Heb 11:6; Jam 2:17-18).