S. Michael Houdmann Supporter Got Questions Ministries

The doctrine of common grace pertains to the sovereign grace of God bestowed upon all of mankind regardless of their election. In other words, God has always bestowed His graciousness on all people...

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July 01 2013 • 2 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Jack Gutknecht Supporter Arizona Bible College & Dallas Seminary graduate, Pentair

What is common grace? 

In Systematic Theology, common grace is God’s general favor by which he restrains sin and its consequences, maintains human life and culture, and bestows a variety of gifts and blessings to all people indiscriminately.

1 Peter 2:14 serves as a prime biblical example of common grace, specifically through the institution of civil government.In this passage, Peter instructs believers to submit to human authorities, explaining that governors are "sent by him [God] to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right."

Common grace, then, refers to the unmerited favor and blessings that God gives to all of humanity, not only to believers. One aspect of this is how God restrains evil by using secular governments and human laws to limit lawlessness and hold back the destructive power of sin in a fallen world. In addition, earthly rulers promote order and justice by punishing evildoers and praising those who do good, thereby maintaining societal and moral order. This allows everyone, regardless of their personal faith, to live an orderly life. The resulting establishment of justice and public safety is a benefit shared by all people.

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