Thanks to an (interesting) ongoing discussion on the BJSurvivors board about what grace is, I am puzzling over this question currently:
Is Grace primarily a thing?
Or an action?
The word means simply "a gift" or "favor." But gifts are given, and favor must be bestowed.
God's Grace extends far beyond simply "getting someone saved." His work in us encompasses everything it takes to change me from "sinner' to "holy one" in
reality, not just position.
When we "favor" someone else by gifting them with what they need at any given point to move forward on their journey with Christ, is that Grace? I think so. I certainly use the word that way.
So.
Noun?
Verb?
Both?
God gives Grace.
Do humans "give" some form of "grace" in our imitation of God? (consider parenting, mentoring, teaching, rebuking, ministering....)
Comments (2)
is there a difference between grace and gracefull?
@malcolm_1235 - yeah, I think so.
I mean, we usually use "graceful" as an adjective to describe someone who moves with precision and fluidity. So "grace" has a physical definition closely related to what we think makes someone beautiful.
But I'm wrestling with the theological version....