What's the Difference Between Grace and Mercy in the Bible? People typically confuse grace and mercy. By Lauren McKeithen

 

What's the Difference Between Grace and Mercy in the Bible?

People typically confuse grace and mercy.

By Lauren McKeithen

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Grace and mercy are the greatest attributes of love. The essence of the Bible is loving people and God through the lens of Christ. Two grand works of God have exhibited His all-powerful, merciful and gracious nature: redemption and creation. While God’s work of creation has shown His mighty power, His work of redemption revealed His marvelous love through His grace and mercy. This very love of God is essential for humanity’s salvation and life’s existence.

The difference between mercy and grace.

The Greek word for mercy is typically eleos, and grace is charis. As paraphrased from Wilmington’s Guide to the Bible, grace and mercy can be distinguished as follows: mercy is the act of denying punishment, while grace is the act of granting unmerited favor. In God’s mercy, He doesn’t give us the punishment we deserve, hell, while in His grace, He gives us the gift we don’t deserve, heaven. Grace and mercy are two sides of the same coin, and the coin is love. In God’s words, mercy is compassionate love to the weak, while grace is a generous love to the unworthy. Humans are unworthy and weak, so we all need God’s grace and mercy. Mercy takes us on the path of forgiveness, while grace leads us to reconciliation.

Biblical examples of grace and mercy.

Grace and mercy are typically mistaken as a New Testament concept. However, they are manifested throughout the entire Bible. The Bible is filled with stories of God using imperfect people to accomplish His purpose. There are several examples of His grace in the Old Testament. David is likely the most significant example, as he was called “a man after God’s own heart” despite his sins. David killed, lusted, and fornicated. Abraham lied and feared, Sara was impatient, Moses was stubborn, Jacob was a cheater, and the Israelites rebelled several times against God, but He still used all of them to achieve His purposes.

Saul was a persecutor, but God changed him to become Paul, an apostle of Christ and the author of almost half of the New Testament. Peter denied Jesus several times, but God used him to preach and save over 3,000 people. Thomas had doubts, but God used him to preach the Gospel in India and maybe Indonesia, according to traditions. Demons possessed Mary Magdalene, but God gave her a chance to be the first witness of the risen Christ. Martha was impatient, but God also allowed her to be among the first witnesses of the risen Christ and of her brother, Lazarus. Barabbas was a criminal, but God let him be set free in exchange for Jesus. The repenting thief was forgiven on the cross and promised to be in paradise with Christ.

Clearly, the Bible is a record of a God who always forgives immoral humans and, even more, a flawless God who works in and through them, the broken vessels, for their good and ultimately for His glory. The grace and mercy of God alone sustain and save humanity. If God has shown His love to those people in the past, He must be able to do so in our lives today. So, how do we respond to God’s love?

Acknowledge our need for mercy and grace.

Humility is required to embrace the grace and mercy of God, as detailed in James 4:6 and Micah 6:8. We should first confess that every human is a sinner and no one is able to meet God’s standard of perfection, and the world we live in is broken, so we don’t become obsessed with ourselves and things in this world. By doing so, we change our focus from human-centeredness to God and recognize His sovereignty over everything. Grace and mercy free us from perfectionism and a rebellious and prideful heart. Only by His grace and mercy can we live today.

Accept His grace and mercy.

There’s a deep desire in humanity for freedom. Naturally, people are happy when they receive something good for free, and otherwise, they are hesitant to sacrifice or pay for it. The good news is that God has offered His grace and mercy for free. Jesus has done for our behalf all that we need for our salvation, as detailed in Romans 6:23 and Ephesians 1:7. We’re saved not because we’re good but because God is good. He’s paid all the necessary payments for our salvation.

Furthermore, God knows that not only do we love something free, but we also love something fresh. Thanks be to God, through the resurrection of Christ, we’re given a new holy life and the great privilege of living from Him. As we walk in His ways, we’ll continue to experience His glory and grace, as detailed in Psalm 84:11 and find our help in times of need.

Share Jesus’ love with others and know our identity in Christ.

We were once children of wrath due to our sins, but in Jesus, we have now become God’s children. As His children, we should be grateful that God is full of truth and grace. However, we shouldn’t take His love for granted, and we must grow in our relationship with God to know and love Him more. God’s desire for us is to have mercy on others. As He planted the seed of love in our hearts with His grace, we’re to bear more fruit in our work, as detailed in 2 Corinthians 9:8. Paul saw the importance of working hard for God as the applicable response to His grace, not as trying to earn His favor. Therefore, let us, as God’s chosen and beloved people, continue to do good work as He’s given us, be merciful and gracious in our judgment of others, and do all these things in love and truth.

Lauren McKeithen is a University of Maryland University College graduate who has always had a passion for writing. She strives to walk the path God laid out for her every day.

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8 Signs of Rapture in the Bible From wars and famines to moral decay and chaos, these controversial verses provide insight into what’s to come and how believers can prepare spiritually. By Esther Lombardi

 

8 Signs of Rapture in the Bible

From wars and famines to moral decay and chaos, these controversial verses provide insight into what’s to come and how believers can prepare spiritually.

By Esther Lombardi

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Wars, pandemics, natural disasters, and global unrest have many people asking a sobering question: Are we nearing the end of time? If you’ve wondered the same, you’re not alone. According to a recent Pew Research survey, 40 percent of Americans believe we’re living in the end times. This widespread belief might also explain the growing fascination with apocalyptic themes like zombies, global catastrophes, and end-of-the-world scenarios in popular media.

But what does the Bible actually say about the end times and the rapture? In this article, we’ll explore eight biblical signs that point to the rapture, examining how ancient prophecies appear to align with the current state of the world. From wars and famines to moral decay and chaos, these controversial verses provide insight into what’s to come and how believers can prepare spiritually.

Global Explosion

With pandemic conditions and global digitization, virtual church attendance has increased 300 percent. Matthew 24:14 states that every people (possibly every culture with its own language) worldwide will hear the gospel before Christ calls His followers home. More than ever before, the gospel has been shared in virtually every corner of the world. Ministries are now using AI and VR, combined with social media, online portals, and mobile apps, to drive that continued growth. The meaning of "unto all nations" is still debated, so Matthew 24:14 and similar verses are controversial.

Increase in Natural Disasters

Luke 21:11 talks about the earthquakes, famine, and pestilence in the End Times. Jesus foretold that crises like these would escalate, leading to higher mortality rates and threatening food security. Issues such as environmental degradation, fragile food supply chains, antibiotic-resistant “superbugs,” and outbreaks of viruses like Ebola and COVID-19 could represent the “birth pains” mentioned in the Bible.

As we observe current events, we may wonder: are natural disasters and health crises becoming unusually severe? Not just the periodic challenges seen every few decades or centuries, but a surge of crises occurring for reasons that often defy full understanding?

Wars and Rumors of Wars

There have always been wars and violent conflicts around the world, but the upsurge in violence is real. Matthew 24:6-7 refers to the “wars and rumors of wars.” Beyond the Israel-Palestine and Russia-Ukraine conflicts, there was a record number of 59 conflicts in 2023.

As historian Jennifer Rosenberg reflected, “The 20th century was dominated by war and conflict that continually shifted the balance of power around the globe” from global wars to civil wars and coups. When we pair this information with the disturbing statistics about wars so far in the twenty-first century, we may ask, “What’s the trend? Could the increase in warfare and devastation signal the imminent return of Jesus?

Increase in Knowledge and Travel

You can quickly access global information, technology, and connectivity. The global travel market has surged by 98 percent. This travel, connectivity, and digital information era has reshaped society and broadened our realms of knowledge and influence.

Daniel 12:4 mentions an “increase in knowledge” as “many shall run to and fro.” Online learning has grown by 900 percent, with expectations that the overall worth of the industry will be $687 billion by 2030.

Moral Decay and Lawlessness

Global conflicts have nearly doubled over the last five years. Almost 20 percent of the world’s population live in or are directly affected by violence in their daily life. It’s a world of social and moral decay.

2 Timothy 3:1-5 mentions how evil and wrong people will be in the last days: “without natural affection” but also “traitors, heady, high-minded.” Incidents of social unrest have increased in 83 countries around the world.

False Christs

Matthew 24:4-5 says, “Jesus warned His disciples, ‘Watch out that no one deceives you. For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and will deceive many.

You may recognize names like David Koresh, Jim Jones, and Charles Manson—each of whom falsely claimed to be Christ. While these figures are infamous, they are far from the only ones to make such claims. During the Crusades, individuals asserting equality with Jesus became more common. One example is David Alroy, a Jewish leader from Kurdistan who, around 1121 AD, gathered a significant following. He promised to establish a kingdom in Jerusalem and led his followers in an unsuccessful coup against Sujak Sultan Mukta. Historical accounts suggest Alroy was executed after the failed rebellion.

Throughout church history, many individuals have claimed to be Christ, making it challenging to determine which ones to watch for. However, Scripture reminds us to be cautious of anyone making such claims, as Jesus has already come and will return only at the time of the final resurrection.

Israel's Restoration

The Israelites' gathering into "one land" fulfills several Old Testament prophecies. This shows God's faithfulness. Ezekiel 37:21-22 mentions that the “children of Israel” will be gathered into “their own land.

After the 1917 Balfour Declaration supported a Jewish national home, Israel declared independence on May 14, 1948. Millions of Jews have returned to Israel since 1948. Israel's restoration is still debated, so these are controversial verses in the Bible.

Global Economic Instability

Political and economic unrest and upheaval are signs of the end times in many biblical references to the rapture. Revelation 13:16-17 mentions the “mark of the beast” or “666” amidst economic instability. As the End Times approach, people will be marked with 666 as a form of protection and affiliation.

The 666 number is the sign of man, representing wickedness and evil as well as everything that opposes God in an apocalyptic vision of the End Times. It’s a rejection of God. The Book of Revelations indicates that everyone will be forced to accept the mark on their forehead or hand.

Some critics and commentators believe that the post-pandemic stimulus packages, political shifts, and global instability are all signs that indicate that the end times and rapture are near. Knowingly or unknowingly, you may be forced to take the sign of the beast.

Amid all the prophetic scriptures, one thing is still clear. Matthew 24:36 says that “no one knows” the day or hour of Christ’s return. No matter how you interpret these signs, the message is clear about what's coming. Biblical teachings urge you to be prepared and ready for the end times and the rapture. Whether the Lord returns tomorrow or in the next century, we must remain on mission as we share the love of Christ with those in need of the Savior. Jesus is our true and beautiful hope.

Esther Lombardi is a dedicated writer, journalist, and author who writes about faith, spirituality, and Christianity. With a background in theology and a keen interest in ancient texts, she explores narratives that shape our understanding of spirituality.

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#78 My Life: My Temptations Dr. Stephen Phinney: In my younger years, I was consumed by an overwhelming desire to be famous. The allure of recognition, admiration, and success seemed like the ultimate goal. Mar 16

 

	Forwarded this email? Subscribe here for more It is an honor to have you as a member of our subscription service! Share today. Share The End Times Chronicles   Watch now   #78 My Life: My Temptations Dr. Stephen Phinney: In my younger years, I was consumed by an overwhelming desire to be famous. The allure of recognition, admiration, and success seemed like the ultimate goal. Mar 16   READ IN APP   Listen to the podcast version: Brought to you by Sharon Lackey. Listen now · 9:22 THE POWER OF TEMPTATION Temptation is a formidable force that has the power to sway even the strongest of wills - the stronger the will, the stronger Satan’s influence. It can present itself in myriad forms, often appealing to our deepest desires and vulnerabilities. While it may seem enticing in the moment, giving in to temptation can lead to a cascade of negative consequences that affect not only us but those around us. The allure of temptation lies in its ability to obscure the long-term impact of our choices, making it crucial for us to remain vigilant and grounded in our steadfastness in Yeshua. By recognizing the power of temptation and seeking strength from within—through Yeshua, discipline, and Body-Life support—we can overcome its grip and make choices that align with the choices Christ desires to make through us. Moreover, the New Testament further clarifies that believers' identity is rooted in Christ. Galatians 2:20 (ESV) declares, "I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." Here, the apostle Paul underscores that our earthly flesh, though a significant part of our previous identity, is secondary to our new identity in Christ. Thus, while our flesh is a part of our sarx, flesh, the trash the old nature left behind, our true identity is found in our union with Yeshua, who transforms and defines our lives beyond the physical realm. All it takes is a small opening for the enemy of God to infiltrate our minds and flesh. When we let our guard down, even for a moment, we become susceptible to deceptive thoughts and actions that can lead us away from our true purpose. This vulnerability emphasizes the importance of remaining vigilant and steadfast in our faith, continually seeking God's indwelling LIFE and strength to resist these subtle attacks. By guarding our hearts and minds with the truth of His Word and relying on the Holy Spirit, we can protect ourselves from the enemy's influence and stay aligned with God's will. ALLOW ME TO BE TRANSPARENT In my younger years, I was consumed by an overwhelming desire to be famous - mainly because I believed I was a nobody. The allure of recognition, admiration, and success seemed like the ultimate goal. I imagined my name in lights, my face on magazine covers, and my talents celebrated by countless Christian admirers. The temptation to achieve fame was intoxicating, still is, and it quickly became the driving force behind my every action. I devoted countless hours to honing my skills, convinced that they would catapult me to Christianized stardom. I attended personality classes, studied self-marketing venues, and sought out any opportunity to showcase my talents. With every setback and rejection, my determination only grew stronger. I was relentless, believing that fame was the key to not only happiness and fulfillment, but also to advance the Gospel. As I pursued this twisted ideology, I began to lose sight of the things that truly mattered. Just ask my wife. During my political stint, I neglected relationships, ignored my own well-being, and compromised my family values in the relentless pursuit of recognition. The desire for fame became an insidious force, eroding my sense of who I was in Christ and leaving me feeling empty and unfulfilled. One pivotal moment came when I was offered a chance to participate in a high-profile project by the President of the United States. The opportunity was tantalizing, but it required me to compromise my Biblical integrity and go against my beliefs. The temptation to accept was strong, as it promised the fame and recognition I had long sought. However, deep down, I knew that this path would lead me further away from who I truly was in Yeshua. It was then that I realized the futility of chasing fame for the sake of fame itself. I began to understand that true fulfillment comes from living a life aligned with who Christ is, embracing my authentic identity in Yeshua, and finding joy in the journey rather than the destination. The realization brought a sense of peace and clarity that I had not experienced before. So, I resigned my position with the President’s council. Gradually, I shifted my focus away from the pursuit of fame and towards meaningful connections, personal growth, and genuine contributions to the mission I was called - advancing the indwelling life of Yeshua. I learned to appreciate the small moments once again of joy and the impact I could make in the lives of others, no matter how modest. The temptation to be famous still lingers and tugs at my shirt sleeve, but it no longer holds the same power over me. In the end, I discovered that true fulfillment comes not from external recognition, but from living a life of purpose, authenticity, and love. The struggle and temptation to be famous taught me valuable lessons about who I am and what truly matters. It was a journey that ultimately led me to a deeper understanding of myself and a more meaningful and contented life. Today, if you looked at my whiteboard in my office, you would see these words: Stephen, just do what I ask you to do! - Yeshua The echoes of childhood trauma, particularly the painful experiences of being silenced and made to feel like a nobody, can deeply impact one's adult life. However, in the light of Yeshua's power, these wounds can be healed and repurposed for a greater calling. The journey from feeling insignificant to embracing one's identity as a beloved child of God is a powerful testimony. This process involves recognizing one's worth in Yeshua as His Bride and understanding that His strength is made perfect in our weaknesses. What was once a source of pain has become a foundation for a purposeful life, dedicated to sharing the identity message of Yeshua with others. Through His indwelling presence, the scars of the past can be a testimony to the redemptive power of God's grace, enabling individuals, like me, to rise above their circumstances and become vessels of telling His story to the world. Share For if anyone thinks he is something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself. (Galatians 6:3) This verse became my salvation in understanding the profound dangers of seeking to be "something" in the eyes of the world. It revealed the futility of self-importance and the emptiness of striving for recognition based on pride. Instead, it brought me to a place of humility, reminding me that true value and purpose are found in Yeshua. Through this realization, I embraced the call to live authentically in His presence, focusing on His glory rather than my own. This newfound understanding liberated me from the relentless pursuit of worldly validation, grounding me in the identity and worth bestowed by Yeshua alone. If we continue down this path, we risk fracturing the unity and harmony that the church is meant to embody, ultimately leading to a broken and ineffective witness to the world, let alone to each other. We must return to the simplicity and purity of following Yeshua's life and teachings, allowing His love to guide our actions and unify us as His body. The End Times Chronicles is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Subscribed Thanks for subscribing to The End Times Chronicles. Your paid subscription helps us advance our non-profit’s mission. Dr. Stephen R. Phinney is dedicated to providing quality media and publications that advance the Life of Christ. Paid subscribers receive free eBooks, media content, and other free stuff. Hey, fellow writers/readers, would you be open to buying me a cup of coffee? Check out this fun way of supporting my writing: https://bmc.link/drphinney   Like Comment Restack   © 2025 Dr. Stephen Phinney P.O. Box 71, Sterling, KS 67579