God's grace is essential because it transforms dead sinners into new creations, a work entirely initiated by Him.
In historic Reformed thought, grace is viewed as the unmerited favor of God towards sinners, exemplified in the saving work of Christ. Ephesians 2:5 states, 'Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;).' This highlights that salvation is not a result of human effort but entirely the work of God who brings spiritual life to the dead. The transformative nature of grace means that believers become new creations (2 Corinthians 5:17), possessing new desires and the ability to seek after God. This understanding instills in us profound gratitude and dependence on God for both our initial faith and ongoing spiritual sustenance.
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