What is the simplest definition of grace?

What is the simplest, most accessible definition of “grace,” particularly in a religious context (specifically, but not limited to, Christian theology)? I’m looking for an explanation that avoids jargon and is understandable to someone unfamiliar with theological concepts. Think of explaining it to a child or someone completely new to the idea – what’s the core essence of grace? Furthermore, can you illustrate this definition with a brief, concrete example?

Answer

Grace, in its simplest definition, is unearned favor.

Expanding on this, grace embodies several key aspects:

• Unmerited: It is not earned, deserved, or merited by the recipient’s actions. It’s a gift, freely given.
• Favor: It signifies kindness, goodwill, and a positive disposition from the giver toward the receiver. This favor is extended even when the recipient is undeserving.
• Source: Grace originates from an external source; it’s bestowed by someone or something else.
• Effect: The effect of grace is often transformative, resulting in positive outcomes such as forgiveness, healing, empowerment, or restoration.
• In Christianity: In a theological context, particularly within Christianity, grace is the freely given, unmerited favor and love of God. It is God’s active presence and power working within people to bring about salvation and sanctification.
• Beyond Religion: While often used in religious contexts, the concept of grace extends beyond religion. It can describe acts of kindness, generosity, and forgiveness in interpersonal relationships or even luck or good fortune in general circumstances.

In summary, grace is essentially getting something good that you don’t deserve and couldn’t possibly earn.

Pray This Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We come before you today seeking to understand the mystery of grace. We ponder the question: "What is the simplest definition of grace?" And in that simplicity, we find a profound truth.

We understand that grace, in its most basic form, is undeserved favor. It is your unearned love poured out upon us, despite our shortcomings, our failures, and our unworthiness. It is the gift we could never earn, the help we don’t deserve, and the love we cannot comprehend.

Thank you for this grace, Lord. Thank you for seeing beyond our imperfections and offering us redemption, forgiveness, and a new beginning. Help us to accept this grace with humble hearts and to allow it to transform us into the people you created us to be.

Teach us to extend this grace to others, recognizing that they too are deserving of kindness and compassion, even when they fall short. May we be instruments of your grace in the world, reflecting your love and mercy to all we encounter.

Help us to never take your grace for granted, but to live each day in gratitude and with a renewed commitment to follow your path.

In your loving name, we pray.

Amen.