Temporary Grace

Some grace was meant to be temporary, such as Apostolic power and gifts of the Holy Spirit. They were never meant for all generations. The effects of spiritual gifts were for all generations, not the gifts themselves.

Ephesians 2:8 uses the greek present tense "being saved". This implies lasting effects from something currently being exercised. The Gospel would effect all coming generations. The Gospel was given by God's grace, even though once delivered it would cease being given, the effects would be eternal for all generations.

Augustine and Calvin both mistakingly applied temporary grace from spiritual gifts to all believers as a precedent.

Consider,

1Co 1:4 I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ;

1Co 1:5 That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge;

The gift of speech and knowledge was a grace bestowed upon the church at Corinth. But the supernatural gift of knowledge would someday pass or cease.

1Co 13:8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.

1Co 13:9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.

1Co 13:10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.

Augustine incorrectly argued passages speaking of grace through spiritual gifts were precedent for all Christians receiving grace. Paul said they would cease when the Church became mature.The Ephesian letter also saw gifts ceasing with church maturity.

Eph 4:7 But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.

Eph 4:8 Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.

Eph 4:13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:

Many of the passages quoted by Augustine were passages explaining the grace of God from supernatural gifts. They were not meant for personal sanctification but were more meant for building up others.

When the church achieved a level of maturity the gifts and offices associated with them would cease.

One proof this has occurred is the cessation of the Apostles office.