Common Grace is a theological concept in Protestant Christianity, primarily in Reformed and Calvinistic circles, referring to the grace of God that is either common to all humankind, or common to everyone within a particular sphere of influence (limited only by unnecessary cultural factors). It is “common” because its benefits are experienced by, or intended for, the whole human race without distinction between one person and another. It is "grace" because it is undeserved and sovereignly bestowed by God. In this sense, it is distinguished from the Calvinistic understanding of "special" or "saving" grace, which extends only to those whom God has chosen to redeem.
Read more about Common Grace: Aspects of Common Grace, Contrasted With Special Grace
Famous quotes containing the words common and/or grace:
“I will not choose what many men desire,
Because I will not jump with common spirits,
And rank me with the barbarous multitudes.”
—William Shakespeare (1564–1616)
“Though her parting dims the day,
Stealing grace from all alive;
Heartily know,
When half-gods go,
The gods arrive.”
—Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882)