10 Symptoms of a grace-based theology

1 – Restfulness in identity 

Confidence in being fully forgiven (past, present, and future) and secure in Christ’s love, leading to freedom from striving to earn God’s approval.

2 – Quick repentance 

Regular, sincere repentance to God and others, with diminishing delays between conviction and turning from sin. 

3 – Joyful gratitude 

A posture of thankfulness, recognizing God’s grace in both trials and blessings, which fuels generosity and contentment. 

4 – Freedom from self-righteousness 

Reliance on Jesus’ finished work rather than personal discipline or moral performance, avoiding legalistic “checklist” spirituality. 

5 – Gracious relationships 

Extending forgiveness readily and viewing relational challenges as opportunities to reflect Christ’s mercy rather than burdens. 

6 – Humility in growth 

Acknowledging ongoing dependence on God’s strength, with less defensiveness toward criticism or pride in achievements. 

7 – Better worship 

Theology that leads to worship (“informed mind with enflamed heart”) rather than intellectual superiority or division. 

8 – Hope for our witness (evangelism) 

Since we are not saved by our commitment to God but only by God’s kindness to us, we can hope in God as we share the gospel and pray for others and care for them. Our witness is not about the perfect and persuasive gospel delivery but about God working even though we are weak.   

9 – Peace in weakness 

Embracing limitations and suffering as avenues for God’s grace to manifest, rather than resenting them. 

10 – Unforced obedience 

 Actions motivated by love for Christ rather than fear or obligation, with decreasing reliance on “should” and increasing joy in “get to”.