Common Grace

”(God) in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways. Nevertheless he left not himself without witness, in that he did good and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness.” –Acts 14:17

This passage speaks of what is referred to as God’s “common grace.” There is an extent to which every human being on the face of the earth personally experiences the grace of God. This is different from “saving grace” through which a person is forgiven of their sins based on a personal acceptance of Jesus Christ as Savior. Common grace refers to God’s gracious goodness that is poured out in blanket fashion over all the earth.

Notice in the first verse, Luke recorded that God had “suffered” or allowed all the nations to walk in their own ways, yet He still provided them with rain and fruitful seasons. Why would God do such a thing for the rebellious and unbelieving? There are three good reasons. One reason is simply to show the ultimate goodness of His nature that He might be glorified by humanity. Another reason is to send a message to mankind – this “common grace” is God revealing Himself to humanity. A third reason is to give humanity time and space in which to repent of sin and idolatry and to seek Him by faith.

You may not like God, but He loves you enough to provide for you and to keep you alive this long that you might seek Him and turn to Him by faith. The same can be said for the entire believing world. Why does God not simply wipe us from the face of the earth? Because He wants to show us His goodness that we might turn to Him in repentance and faith. Are you taking advantage of the goodness of God or have you come to Him with thanks, receiving His Son as your Savior?