We are saved by faith, which reflects God’s work in our lives and the grace He offers us. Paul gives us insight into Abraham’s faith. Romans 4:2If his good deeds had made him acceptable to God, he would have had something to boast about. But that was not God’s way. 3 For the Scriptures tell us, “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith. [1]
The Law could not have saved Abraham because it had not been instituted. Neither was Abraham saved by circumcision because he was declared righteous before he was circumcised. Like Abraham, we are only saved by God’s grace, His undeserved love. Paul confirms this fact. Ephesians 2:8God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. 9 Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.[2]
The Wages We Deserve vs God’s Grace
It’s a common belief that performing good deeds can make us right with God. However, when it comes to sin, the reality is that death is the only payment that can truly satisfy divine justice. Romans 6:23For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord. [3]
Since we all miss the mark, this means we face the reality of being separated from God for eternity. Here’s the wonderful news: grace, a divine expression of love and kindness toward the undeserving, gives us hope through Jesus. As we see in John 6:29, the only “work” we need to do is believe in Jesus as our Savior. When Jesus died on the cross for our sins, He opened the door for us to experience salvation.
Are Good Works Necessary?
Regardless of the good works we accomplish, they can never earn us the grace we need to atone for our sins. While good works won’t save us, it’s essential to keep in mind that we should still aspire to do them. Ephesians 2:10For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. [4]
In addition, James gives us the connection between faith and good deeds. James 2:17 So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless. [5] If we can’t earn salvation, what does this mean? Faith and works go hand in hand; you can’t have one without the other.
With the Holy Spirit within us, good works naturally occur. While faith in Jesus offers salvation, our works are its fruit. We can significantly impact others through our faith and good works and, in the process, point them to Jesus. If you have never asked Jesus into your heart, today, He is calling you so you can experience His grace.
To learn more about how we are saved by faith, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/abraham-faithful-to-the-end
[1-5] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.