Wednesday, March 14, 2007

Grace

The followings are some of the quotes that I found on grace.

Wikipedia states that 'divine grace' refers to the sovereign favour of God for humankind — especially in regard to salvation — irrespective of actions ("deeds"), earned worth, or proven goodness.

More broadly, divine grace refers to God's gifts to humankind, including life, creation, and salvation. More narrowly but more commonly, grace describes the means by which humans are saved from original sin and granted salvation. This latter concept of grace is of central importance in the theology of Christianity, as well as one of the most contentious issues in Christian sectarianism.

Eugene O'Neill says, "Man is born broken. He lives by mending. The grace of God is glue."

U2's song "Grace":

What left a mark
no longer stains

Because grace makes beauty
Out of ugly things

Grace finds goodness
In everything

Philip Yancey in his book "What's so amazing about grace?", says that the proof of spiritual maturity is not how "pure" you are but awareness of your impurity. That very awareness opens the door to grace.

What does grace mean to you? Have you had any personal stories about grace?

16 comments:

Matthew Celestine said...

I would very your reading much recommend 'Grace in Eclipse' by Zane Hodges.

Anonymous said...

I have been reading Philip Yancy's Book right now. He has some very interesting things to say. Grace is something that God extends to me though I do not deserve it. I deserve punishment for my sin, a life without God, and guilt because of what I have done. He gives me grace.
God's Riches at Christ's Expense.

Kitty Cheng said...

Thanks Matthew for your recommendation. I will try to get hold of the book. Anyway what is 'Grace in Eclipse' about?

Kitty Cheng said...

Yeah Amy Philip Yancy's book is insightful isn't it?

Ross said...

Some critics have accused him of watering down the gospel, but a few years ago, I was blessed by reading The Ragamuffin Gospel: Embracing the Unconditional Love of God, by Brennan Manning. We need to remember that being forgiven doesn't mean we can live as we like. We need a balanced view of sin, forgiveness, and grace, don't we?

Kitty Cheng said...

Ross, I heard that Brennan Manning's book is a great one! Yes I agree that a balanced view of sin, forgiveness, and grace is important!

Matthew Celestine said...

The importance of rewards as a Christian motivation and their relationship to grace and works.

Anonymous said...

I agree with you, Ross. Romans 6:1 reads, "What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound, God forbid." I will check out the book;It sounds like a must read.

An Ordinary Christian said...

Grace is one of my favorite topics of Christianity. Grace is not only for salvation but for power for living. By grace we receive ministry to be enabled to do that for which God calls us. Great topic!

Anonymous said...

kitty, can you pray for me and jec please?

audrey` said...

Dearest Kitty

How are you, my dear sis?

Because of His grace and mercy, we're who we're today.

Take care, dear dear.

Please say a big, big "Hello" to your Mummy =)

Kitty Cheng said...

Dear Matthew, can you unpack what you mean by that please?

Kitty Cheng said...

Amy, Romans 6:1 is a great reminder. Thanks!

Kitty Cheng said...

Yes Andrea. Grace is such a great topic! And God's Grace is just sooooo amazing isn't it?

Kitty Cheng said...

Dear Pia, yes I will certainly pray for you and jec, and trust that God's grace is sufficient for you!

Kitty Cheng said...

Dear Audrey, I am very well thanks! My Mummy said a big "Hello" to you too sis!