Definition

Noun: * (Christian theology) the free and unmerited favor or beneficence of God. This term refers to the theological concept that God's love, mercy, and salvation are given freely to humanity, not as a reward for good works or merit, but as a gift.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The doctrine of free grace emphasizes that salvation is a gift, not a wage.
  • His sermon focused on the concept of free grace available to all who believe.
  • They understood their redemption as an act of God's free grace.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in theological discussions to contrast with concepts of earning salvation through deeds or legalistic observance. It underscores the unconditional nature of divine love and forgiveness in certain Christian traditions.

Variants and Related Words

• Grace (n): The central concept, meaning unmerited divine assistance, favor, or love. "Free grace" is a specific emphasis of this broader term.
• Sovereign grace (n): A related theological term emphasizing that God's grace is given according to His own will and purpose.

Synonyms

• Unmerited favor
• Divine grace
• God's gift

Related Phrases

• By grace alone: A phrase, often "sola gratia" in Latin, central to Protestant Reformation theology, meaning salvation is by God's grace alone.
• The grace of God: A more general phrase for God's favor and kindness.

Noun

1. (Christian theology) the free and unmerited favor or beneficence of God
   • God's grace is manifested in the salvation of sinners
   • there but for the grace of God go I