Favoritism

Psalm 5:12 English Standard Version (ESV) For you bless the righteous, O Lord; you cover him with favor as with a shield.

When I was young in the Lord I sat in the front row of the church and hung on every word being said. I was enthusiastic to receive God’s Word.

One day a teacher was given the opportunity to take a turn preaching. He looked at me and asked, “What is the definition of grace?” From the depths of my heart I answered “God’s great love for me played out in my life.” He said, “No. Joe, what is the definition of grace.” Joe answered “Unmerited favor.” The teacher had a lesson plan and my answer didn’t fit his plan, so I was dismissed curtly.

Could that teacher have said something a little more gracious than NO? I was wounded in that moment. Was I that wrong?

Study Vines Expository Dictionary on grace and you will not find the words “unmerited favor”. What is found in part are these words “in another objective sense, the effect of “grace,” the spiritual state of those who have experienced its exercise”. It is as much an experience as it is an intention.

Along with those studies about “unmerited favor” are tendencies to focus on the issues of election, to be chosen. While those teaching have their place in context they should not be used to imply that God loves us more than He loves the lost. God’s love does not show favoritism.

John 3:16 English Standard Version (ESV) For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

Whoever is inclusive of all mankind in the exercise of their free will. We are free to accept the gracious offer or to reject the offer. God’s love does not cause the lost to reject the offer.

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