Cheap Grace
The term "Cheap Grace" is not explicitly found in the Bible, but it is a concept that has been discussed in Christian theology, particularly in the context of grace and repentance. This concept was popularized by theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his book "The Cost of Discipleship," where he contrasted "cheap grace" with "costly grace." Cheap grace refers to the idea of receiving God's grace without a genuine commitment to discipleship, repentance, or the moral and ethical implications of that grace. It suggests a superficial acceptance of salvation that does not require transformation or a change in one's life.Biblically, this concept can be illuminated by passages that emphasize the need for a sincere response to God's grace. For example, Romans 6:1-2 states, "What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it?" This verse highlights the expectation that true acceptance of God's grace leads to a life transformed away from sin. Similarly, James 2:19 points out that mere belief is insufficient: "You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe—and shudder!" Thus, the notion of cheap grace is a warning against complacency in faith and the importance of a genuine, active response to God's grace in one's life.