I am reading a book Captured by Grace by David Jeremiah.  It perfectly lines up with our conversation about the Apostle Paul’s transformation.  He shares, “Mercy is God withholding the punishment we rightfully deserve.  Grace is God not only withholding punishment but offering the most precious of gifts instead.”

“Mercy withholds the knife from the heart of Isaac.

Grace provides the ram in the thicket.

Mercy runs to forgive the Prodigal Son.

Grace throws a party with every extravagance.

Mercy bandages the wounds of the man beaten by robbers.

Grace covers the cost of his full recovery.

Mercy hears the cry of the thief on the cross.

Grace promises paradise that very day.

Mercy pays the penalty for our sin at the cross.

Grace substitutes the righteousness of Christ for our wickedness.

Mercy converts Paul on the road to Damascus.

Grace calls him to be an apostle.

Mercy saves John Newton from a life of rebellion and sin.

Grace makes him a pastor and author of a timeless hymn.

Mercy closes the door to hell.

Grace opens the door to heaven.

Mercy withholds what we have earned.

Grace provides blessings we have not earned.”