For Reading and Meditation:
Romans 11:1-24
We continue reflecting on the meaning of grace. Illion T. Jones, a famous Welsh preacher, said that "The word 'grace' is unquestionably the most significant single word in the Bible." I agree. But it must be understood right away that grace is a characteristic of God which is exercized only toward those who are seen as having a special relationship with Him. Nowhere in the Bible is the grace of God ever mentioned in connection with humankind generally, though some theologians frequently use the term "common grace" (a term not mentioned in the Bible) - the idea that God gives a special form of grace to the whole of humankind which restrains them from being as bad as they could be. The other day I came across a writer who said: "The creation of the universe was an exercise of grace." I understand that he might have been using the word "grace" as a synonym for love (a mistake often made by Christian writers), but strictly speaking the exhibition of grace is reserved for the elect - those God foreknew would be brought into a special relationship with Himself through His Son, Jesus Christ. This is why we must distinguish "grace" from "mercy" or "goodness," for Scripture says: "The Lord is good to all, And His tender mercies are over all his works" (Psalm 145:9, NKJV). Arthur W. Pink says: "Grace is the sole source from which flows the goodwill, love and salvation of God into His chosen people." Grace cannot be bought, earned, deserved, or merited. If it could, it would cease to be grace. Grace flows down as pure charity, "falling on the unlovable and making it lovely." Amazing!
Yes Father, it's truly amazing! That love should stoop down to me - an undeserving, even hell-deserving sinner - such an exhibition of grace is more than I can comprehend. But I receive it nevertheless. And because of it I am saved. Hallelujah!