Special Grace in Reformed Theology: God’s Sovereign Mercy
At the heart of Calvinist soteriology lies the doctrine of special grace – God’s particular favor in electing and redeeming sinners, distinct from His common blessings to all creation.
Core Concepts of Special Grace
| Term | Definition | Biblical Support |
|---|---|---|
| Special Grace | God’s saving work in the elect | Ephesians 1:4-5; 2:8-9 |
| Common Grace | God’s general benevolence to all | Matthew 5:45; Acts 14:17 |
| Total Depravity | Man’s complete inability to save himself | Romans 3:10-12; Ephesians 2:1 |
Theological Distinctives
- Sovereign Election: God’s unconditional choice of sinners (Romans 9:15-16)
- Effectual Calling: Irresistible grace that regenerates (John 6:37, 44)
- Limited Atonement: Christ’s death specifically for the elect (John 10:11, 15)
Practical Implications
- Eliminates human boasting in salvation (1 Corinthians 1:26-31)
- Deepens gratitude for sovereign mercy (Titus 3:4-5)
- Motivates evangelism (2 Timothy 2:10)
- Provides assurance of preservation (John 10:28-29)
Balancing Truths
- God’s universal love (John 3:16) with particular redemption
- Human responsibility with divine sovereignty
- General revelation with special revelation
“Grace ceases to be grace if God is compelled to bestow it in the presence of human merit.” – Martin Luther
Common Misunderstandings
- Not about God withholding salvation arbitrarily
- Doesn’t negate genuine human choice
- Doesn’t diminish evangelistic urgency
