Grace the Key to Unlocking the Power of the Gospel (Ephesians 2:8)

• Author(s): Godson Udochukwu Ukanwa Ph.D
• Paper ID: 1714002
• Page: 2524-2527
• Published Date: 05-02-2026
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 9 Issue 7 January-2026

Abstract

This paper examines grace (χάρις) as the theological key that unlocks the power, efficacy, and transformative reach of the Gospel. Anchored in Ephesians 2:8, the study argues that grace is not merely a doctrinal concept but the divine operative force that initiates salvation, sustains faith, empowers ethical living, and fuels Christian mission. Using biblical exegesis, systematic-theological reflection, and contextual application (with particular attention to contemporary African and Nigerian realities), the paper demonstrates that the Gospel loses its power wherever grace is misunderstood, diluted, or replaced with legalism, merit, or prosperity reductionism. The work contributes to Pauline soteriology by integrating grace as both gift and power, emphasizing its Christological, pneumatological, and ecclesial dimensions.

Keywords

Grace, Gospel, Salvation, Faith, Power, Pauline Theology, Ephesians

Citations

IRE Journals:
Godson Udochukwu Ukanwa Ph.D "Grace the Key to Unlocking the Power of the Gospel (Ephesians 2:8)" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 9 Issue 7 2026 Page 2524-2527 https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV9I7-1714002

IEEE:
Godson Udochukwu Ukanwa Ph.D "Grace the Key to Unlocking the Power of the Gospel (Ephesians 2:8)" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 9(7) https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV9I7-1714002