Unwrapping GraceSample

The Incomparable Riches of God’s Grace

But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. - Ephesians 2:4-7

In Praising God's Glorious Grace, a previous devotion, we considered the glory of God’s grace (1:6). In yesterday's devotion, Rich Grace Lavished on Us, we focused on “the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us” (1:7-8). Now we’re reflecting on “the incomparable riches of his grace” (2:7). I realize this might seem a bit redundant. Indeed, there is an overlap between what we learn in Ephesians 1:7 and 2:7. Both verses refer to the “riches” of God’s grace, using the Greek word ploutos, which means “riches, wealth, abundance.” 

But Ephesians 2:7 gives us even more insight into God’s grace. Here, we learn about, not just the “riches” of his grace, but the “incomparable riches of his grace.” The Greek word translated in the NIV as “incomparable” means “exceeding all others, extraordinary.” The ESV and the NRSV versions render this word as “immeasurable.” The point is that when it comes to grace, God has more than we could ever count or comprehend. God’s supply of grace will never run out.

Ephesians 2:7 expounds upon God’s incomparable grace. It is “expressed in kindness to us in Christ Jesus.” This helps us to grasp that God’s gift of grace is personal and tender. You could imagine a very wealthy person being generous from a distance, giving money but not becoming personally involved with those in need. God’s generosity, however, is not like this. Rather, his abundant grace is expressed in a deeply personal act of kindness through Jesus Christ, who gave his life for us in a costly, vulnerable, and incomparably gracious way. 

As you consider God’s grace, let the good news of Ephesians 2:7 stretch your vision of just how much grace God has for you and for the people you serve. Moreover, remember that God is not watching you “from a distance,” giving graciously but safely and impersonally. Rather, God has expressed his grace through the kindness of Jesus Christ. In the age to come, when we are with the Lord, we will experience the fullness of his kindhearted grace. Until then, God has more than enough grace for us, more than we will ever need. 

  

Personal Questions:

What images help you as you think about God’s grace?

What difference does it make to you to know that God’s grace is incomparable or immeasurable?

How have you experienced God’s kindness to you? 

If you really believed God’s grace was immeasurably rich, how might this affect the way you pray for yourself? For others? 

Questions Relevant to Your Worship Leadership:

How would those whom you lead in worship experience the incomparable riches of God’s grace? 

How might you help people to sense the kindness of God?

In what ways will the people you lead be empowered and encouraged to be gracious and kind to others as an expression of their worship? 

Prayer: 

Gracious God, the riches of your grace are beyond comprehension. I can say these words, but I can’t really grasp their full meaning. Your grace is so rich, so big, so broad, so amazing.

And, also, so kind. You don’t just make gracious pronouncements. You don’t just give gifts from a safe distance. Rather, you have come among us, sharing in our humanity, bearing our sin in Jesus Christ. Your kindness, O God, is tender, approachable, available, vulnerable, and embracing. 

Lord, may I live as a recipient of your incomparably rich grace, praising you with freedom and gratitude, sharing your grace with others through acts of generosity and kindness. May my life be an example of worship for those whom I lead, not just when I’m up front, but as I go about my daily life. Amen.