Romans 11:6

Memory Verse

And it by grace, it is not out from works; otherwise, the grace is no longer becomes grace. But if it is out from works, grace is no longer; otherwise, work is no longer work (Romans 11:6)

Grace conveys an attitude by which a benefit is given without consideration of merit. God’s promise to Abraham was not based on what his descendants would do; rather, God made an unconditional covenant with Abraham, through whom He brought forth a people called by His name. Because of this promise, God has reserved a remnant of Israel and will fulfill His covenant, making her a nation of priests to the world.

In the same manner, the grace that God shows to those of the Church through Jesus Christ does not consider a person’s works or efforts. Salvation is by grace; therefore, works cannot be involved. This includes repenting of sin, asking for forgiveness, accepting Jesus into your heart, making Jesus the Lord of your life, and any other gospel that introduces works into the equation. It is either by grace or by works—they do not mix. Thank God that His kindness brings salvation by grace through faith in the fact that Christ died on behalf of our sins, was buried, and rose again on the third day, according to the Scriptures (1 Corinthians 15:3–4).

Since initial salvation is by grace, grace does not become works concerning how we live out the salvation we possess in Christ. Grace enables us to be who we are in Christ. We have the benefit of being able to live out righteousness because we are in Christ.