Understanding the Works of Grace

The word “Grace” is from the Greek word “Charis”—meaning, graciousness of manner or act. In order words, it means kindness or favor. Secondly, it also means the divine influence upon the heart; and its reflection in the life of an individual.In the context which Grace is used in the scriptures, Grace can be defined to mean:1. The Unmerited (or undeserved) kindness or favor of God on mankind.2. The supernatural influence or empowerment of God on mankind.And it is in the context of these two definitions of Grace above, that we shall be discussing scripturally, the actual works of God’s Grace in the life of a man (including women)...As we begin to discuss about the works of grace, it is important for us to understand that since the beginning, and through the Laws and the prophets (The Old Testament era), God’s dealings with mankind, has been on the basis of Grace.For instance, God dealt with Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob etc... On the basis of grace.But since the coming of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, his grace has been made available to everyone. The birth, death and resurrection of our Savior Jesus Christ, ratified the new covenant of God’s grace to all mankind. Hence, the bible says the Law was given by Moses, while grace and truth came through Jesus Christ (see John 1:).Before enumerating the works of Grace in the life of a man, it is important that I emphasize that Jesus and Jesus only, is the source of Grace. And if you must partake of the benefits and tenets of the new covenant of God’s Grace, you must be a “hearty” believer in Jesus Christ, the atonement of his blood and his words (teachings).Having established the above truth, we now begin to discuss the actual works of the Spirit of Grace (which is the Holy Spirit from Jesus Christ)...So What Are The Works of Grace?The works of Grace which our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ does in the lives of mankind-- through his Holy Spirit (The Spirit of Grace) are, but not limited to the following:1. Eternal Salvation: Titus 2:11 says; “The Grace of God that bringeth Salvation has appeared to all men”. It is through the sovereign kindness of God by our faith in Jesus Christ, that we secure our eternal salvation. It is the grace of God that influences a sinner to believe whole-heartedly in Christ Jesus. Without this work of Grace in the heart of a sinner (that makes the sinner repent and give his heart to Jesus), we can preach and teach all we want, but a sinner will never be saved.Hence, the Lord says, except the father draws someone, no one can come to him...2. Sanctification: Titus 2:12 says, the grace of God teaches us to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts and that we should live sensibly, righteously, godly in this present world. So anyone who lives freely in ungodliness and worldly lusts and claims to be under grace, is a deceiver and also a self-deceiver. Grace works righteousness and godliness in the life of a believer.Grace empowers the believer to forbid sin. Grace empowers a believer to live above sin. Grace does not only empower a believer to keep the Laws of God, it empowers the believer to fulfill them; as they walk in the leadership of the Holy Spirit.And if we keep the commandments of God through the empowerment and leadership of the Holy Ghost, the bible says, we are not under the Law (Galatians 5:18).3. Forgiveness and Repentance: The Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, qualifies us to receive forgiveness and repentance of sin. As we walk with the Lord- by walking under the leadership of his Spirit, when we err, it is grace that gives us the boldness to go to God to receive forgiveness. And as we receive forgiveness from God, he empowers us by his Spirit not to go back to the sin anymore.Hence, the Bible says, we should come boldly unto the thrown of grace to receive mercy (or forgiveness) and find strength to help in times of need (see Hebrews 4:16).Grace works penitence and repentance from sin; and finally crowns it with divine peace as an assurance of forgiveness. Sometimes, the order can be reversed. That is, the assurance of forgiveness can come before the penitence and repentance.But either way, one cannot come without the other. True forgiveness and repentance goes hand in glove. Hence, grace does not say, “I forgive you, go and continue in your sin”. But rather, grace says, “neither do I condemn you, I forgive you, go and sin no more (repent)” – John 8:11.4. Love: Among several other things that the grace of God works in us, it supernaturally empowers us to fulfill the Royal Law of God, which is-- loving our neighbors as ourselves (James 2:8).The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, floods our hearts with divine love, making us feel like babies before God. His divine love in our hearts, through his Holy Spirit, makes us cry Abba Father to him that loves us (Romans 8: 15; Galatians 4:6). Hence, the grace of God gives us the spirit of sonship. And this spirit of sonship in our hearts, floods our hearts with God’s Love. Thereby, making us love him intimately; and consequently, we extend this love to others. And by so doing, we fulfill the Royal Law or keep his commandments (1John 4:19; John 14:15).May the grace of our Lord Jesus be with you forever and ever, in Jesus Name!Remain Blessed!Emeke Odili