Mercy vs Grace
Knowing the difference between mercy and grace is a must due to the fact that mercy and grace are two words that are often confused due to the similarity in their meanings and connotations. Mainly, both grace and mercy are nouns. Apart from being a noun grace is also used as a verb. In the same manner, mercy though it is primarily used as a noun, is also used as an exclamation. Both grace and mercy have their origins in Middle English. Both grace and mercy are used in a number of phrases as well. At the mercy of, be thankful for small mercies and have mercy on are examples for phrases that use mercy.
What does Grace mean?
Grace, on the other hand, is the unmerited favor of God. In other words, it can be said that the word grace refers to a divine saving and strengthening influence on one’s life. Grace is the state of receiving such a divine favor of God. Grace is characterized by unmerited favor of the Almighty. Grace is directed on the befitting. For example, one has to be showered by the grace of the God of Love for the lovers to unite. Hence, grace is directed towards the deserving and the befitting. Unlike mercy, grace is not a matter of justice. Grace is not part of justice thinking. God’s grace is undetectable until expressed. Sometimes the grace of God is expressed as forgiveness quite apart from whether we deserve to be forgiven. In addition, grace is also used in a number of phrases. Look at the following example.
With good (or bad) grace (“in a willing and happy (or resentful and reluctant) manner.”)
I have never met anyone who was capable of accepting their demon of a son with such good grace.
What does Mercy mean?
Mercy is compassion or forbearance shown to law-breakers or offenders. Compassion shown to enemies in one’s power is also called mercy. An act of mercy is committed or performed out of pity. Mercy killing is administered out of mercy for a suffering person. The word mercy is derived from the Latin merces which means pity. Merit dictates mercy. Mercy is directed towards the sinners. Mercy is a matter of justice. The judge in the court shows mercy on the offender, but he does not show grace on him. Though sinners only gain God’s grace sometimes as forgiveness , all sinners are eligible for the mercy of God.
What is the difference between Mercy and Grace?
• Mercy is compassion or forbearance shown to law-breakers or offenders. Grace, on the other hand, is the unmerited favor of God.
• Merit dictates mercy whereas grace is characterized by unmerited favor of the Almighty.
• Mercy is directed towards the sinners whereas grace is directed on the befitting.
• One of the most important differences between mercy and grace is that mercy is a matter of justice whereas grace is not a matter of justice.
• Philosophers and thinkers believe that God alone is capable of showing both grace and mercy to people.