Can There Be Such a Thing as Hyper-Grace?

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.
T’was Grace that taught my heart to fear.
And Grace, my fears relieved.
How precious did that Grace appear
The hour I first believed.

John Newton

These now famous words were penned in 1772 by John Newton—a former slave trader once known for obscene language and anti-Christian behavior that made other sailors blush. In spite of several near-death experiences, (and subsequent cries to God for mercy), Newton had repeatedly rejected any association with the Christian faith.

At the time they were written, the lyrics of Amazing Grace were considered typical of Newton’s life and ministry. In spite of having been the worst of sinners, God had called, cleansed, and used Newton for His eternal purposes.

Hyper-Grace

As of late, the term “hyper-grace” has been used to refer to an extreme or excessive perspective of grace. Those accused of embracing hyper-grace doctrine often use God’s grace as an excuse for self-absorbed behavior.

I don’t think that John Newton would have taken kindly to the term hyper-grace. By its very nature, God’s grace is both extreme and excessive. Once a wicked and perverse man, Newton thoroughly understood the mind-boggling nature of grace. He, of course, was not alone. That is why Amazing Grace is now known as the most celebrated Christian hymn of all time. The message of this heart-touching hymn continues to resonate in the hearts of millions of believers around the world.

I don’t argue that something is off-base with our modern concept of grace. However, I think that one-dimensional grace is a more appropriate term than hyper-grace. Grace, according to the Apostle Peter, is multifaceted (1 Peter 4:10 ). The idea of grace being God’s unmerited favor is integral to an understanding of grace, but grace is also so much more.

Iced Tea or Gatorade?

Grace also entails the empowerment of the Holy Spirit to help us overcome sin (Romans 6:14) and do all that God calls us to do (Romans 12:6-8; 1 Corinthians 15:10). If grace were a drink, it would be more like Gatorade than iced tea. Consider the imagery presented by each. If I were marketing iced tea, I would do my best to conjure up images of rest and relaxation—of people reclining on lounge chairs and enjoying the “good life”. Gatorade, on the other hand, is the drink of athletes—a necessary resource if they are to perform at their highest potential.

God’s grace is, and always has been, both extreme and excessive. The Lord of the Universe paid a terribly steep price so that we could be forgiven of our sins, but that will never be the end of the story. God expects to do amazing things in and through each of us and so He has given us the ability to draw upon His grace. Anyone who thinks that grace makes for a convenient excuse to pursue a selfish agenda is living a spiritual relationship with God that exists only in his or her own mind.

If you are interested in a more in-depth study on grace, feel free to check out my six part Divine Progression of Grace series in audio and video formats. The book is currently in progress.

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