A Nigerian couple based in the United Kingdom, Pastors Gabriel and Parah Orakpo, have released a new book that explores the meaning and practical impact of divine grace in Christian life.
The book, titled “Unmerited: Discovering the Depths of God’s Grace,” was published in March 2026 through a collaboration between diaspora-owned Zabrol Synergy Ltd and Nigeria-based publishing firm Fairchild & Brave Ltd.
The authors, who lead Living Faith Foundation’s Fountain of Grace Church in Birmingham, examine the concept of grace as God’s unearned favour, tracing its presence throughout biblical history from the book of Genesis to the promise of eternal life.
According to the pastors, the theme of divine grace runs consistently through scripture, often appearing even before human failure.
They noted that the idea is first reflected in the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, where God provided a covering for them, a gesture they say foreshadowed the redemptive work of Jesus Christ.
The book also highlighted examples of grace in the lives of several biblical figures, including Noah, Abraham and David, while examining Christ’s interactions with social outcasts and sinners.
In addition, the authors discuss different forms of grace such as saving grace, sanctifying grace and sustaining grace, stressing their roles in spiritual growth, transformation and perseverance.
Beyond theological discussions, the writers emphasised the liberating power of grace, noting that it frees individuals from guilt, legalism and the constant pressure to perform.
They also encouraged believers to demonstrate grace through forgiveness, patience and kindness, with each chapter ending with reflective questions for readers.
In the foreword, the President of Living Faith Foundation, Rev. Joe Olaiya, described the book as a profound reflection on God’s character, noting that it presents grace not merely as a concept but as a divine expression of compassion.
Other reviewers, including Bishop Grosseteste University professor Isi Agboaye and consultant psychiatrist Dr Robin Lawrence, also commended the work for presenting spiritual ideas in a thoughtful and relatable way.
The authors said the inspiration for the book came from their personal experiences, particularly their relocation to Birmingham in 2009 to establish the first overseas branch of their ministry, a period they described as their “School of Grace.”
They added that the book aims to help readers move from simply understanding grace to experiencing it as a daily reality that sustains and transforms lives.
