The Difference between Grace and Mercy

Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in the time of need (Hebrews 4:16).

The New Testament often talks about God's grace and mercy. Just what's the difference between the two? Adrian Rogers and some others I've heard have given one of the best definitions I know. Mercy is God not giving us the punishment we deserve. Grace is God giving us the blessings and good things we don't deserve.

But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherein he loved us. Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) (Ephesians 2:4-5).

Let's face it. Because of man's choice to sin passed down from the Garden of Eden when the first man and woman chose to disobey God, their heavenly Father, we have all inherited a sin nature. We all deserve the worst punishment imaginable. But God loved us too much to leave us in this state. His mercy chose to make a way that we might be saved.

For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law but under grace (Romans 5:20).


In His love for us, God sent His Son as a permanent sacrifice for all mankind in order to break the bonds of sin. This is grace. While we were sinners, Christ died for us to set us free and reestablish our relationship with the Father. There is nothing we could do to save ourselves, and in no way did we deserve such a great gift, but it's there for us if we'll accept it. Why would anyone refuse? When we trade our sinfulness for Christ's righteousness by asking Him into our lives, that's just the beginning of God's great blessings.

______________________________