Grace vs. Mercy
Grace and Mercy are often used interchangeably, but they do not have the same meaning. They work together hand-in-hand, but their definitions are different. We need both grace and mercy. They both play a key role in the message of the gospel. Let’s compare and contrast these two terms:
1. Mercy is NOT getting what we DO deserve. When we say “God had mercy on me,” we mean that He didn’t give us the consequences or punishment that we know our actions deserved.
“For the wages of sin is death…” Romans 6:23a
This verse tells us that we deserve death because of our sin. There is no other way to pay the spiritual debt that we owe other than to die. God did not let us pay the price. God made the choice to allow us to live even though the circumstances said otherwise. We did not get what we deserved – that’s mercy (Ephesians 2:4).
2. Grace is getting the blessing that we DON”T deserve. Any time we talk about grace, we are referring to the free gift that God has given us (John 10:10. John 3:16, John 20:31). Grace is giving. Grace is action.
“…but the gift of God is eternal life.” Romans 6:23b
God gave us more than what we needed. We were the ones deep in debt. He not only paid it in full, but He turned around and handed us “cash,” too! He not only let us live, but He gives freedom, joy, and hope in life. We have an abundance of riches and treasures in Heaven (Ephesians 2:7). Where did this abundance come from? Grace.
The Gospel wouldn’t mean nearly as much without grace. We would have no purpose but to be alive. We would have no testimony. There would be no such thing as eternal life, security, or agape love. Without grace, we are simply beings. With grace, we are living, free beings.
This is why it’s so important that we recognize the difference between grace and mercy when sharing the gospel with others. We need the lost and wandering to understand that they are dead until they become alive in Christ through the grace displayed on the Cross (Ephesians 2:5). We must emphasize the grace is a free gift waiting to be taken by anyone and everyone. Grace required Jesus to take an action. Many people believe that grace is not taking action when someone wrongs another – that’s mercy.
For example, let’s say you find out that someone that you call a friend has been saying rude things about you behind your back. They have been calling you hurtful names when you’re not around, but they are always so kind to your face. Having mercy in this situation would look like going to them privately and kindly asking them to stop. Grace in this situation would look like mercy + not talking about them behind their back, and also inviting them to coffee to talk about their life. If someone is coming from a place of malice, they are probably hurting in some way. Asking them to coffee could potentially change their life. When someone gets something that they don’t deserve, they are going to wonder why. Grace is unforgettable.
Grace is hard. It is not a part of our nature to want to give grace to others. However, it is a command of the Christian life to give grace as it has been given to us. We are quick to receive grace and slow to give it. We think we are entitled to grace but others are not.
Make it a priority to give grace. It will take practice. If you struggle with forgiveness and compassion, ask God to help you overcome your flesh by His power. Express your desire to give grace to the least of these. Giving grace is an easy gospel conversation starter. He knows your heart. Let Him show you how fun and rewarding it is to give grace.
Did this blog pique your interest? Have more questions? Want to learn more? If so, follow the link to another blog that talks about more common misconceptions within the Christian community:
Madison Burnette is a Religion major at Carson-Newman University. She is a Nashville native and an aspiring writer. In her free time, she enjoys watching sports, singing, reading, and trying local coffee shops with her friends. She has a heart for sharing the hope of Jesus with others through her platform. Her favorite Scripture is Psalm 73: 25-26.
You must be logged in to post a comment.