Charis | June 02, 2004

Charis is the Greek word for Grace. It is an essential term in Christian theology. St. Paul describes charis as the Grace of God that justifies all sinners (Romans 1-3). The giving of Grace (Charisma) by God is personified through Jesus Christ. Theologians have argued whether God's Grace was attainable by merit or only as an act of mercy by God. Pelagius emphasized man's free will to do good and St. Augustine emphasized God's grace as a healing energy which liberates us to be free from sin and is initiated by God.