Works and Grace
Many Scripture verses tell us that works are part of salvation.
“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well (Matthew 6:33).”
“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says (James 1:22).”
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will (Romans 12:1-2).”
Some people say we are saved to good works but good works don’t save us. This can become quite confusing to those who don’t understand even though it is true. It’s confusing if it doesn’t fit into your own worldview, your own inner concept of reality. There’s a lot of confusion over good works.
“Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. The one who does what is right is righteous, just as He is righteous (1 John 3:7).”
Some people say we must avoid what they call “works righteousness.” This Scripture says there is no other kind of righteousness other than doing what is right. So what are the people talking about when they say “works righteousness?” They are talking about trying to earn your salvation by doing self-generated good works. And yet, most Christians know they aren’t supposed to be living sinful lives. Some say they do good works as a gift to God since they are so thankful for salvation.
“all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6)”
So we’ll bring our filthy rags to Jesus as a gift? I don’t think so.
“Man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ (Galatians 2:16).” “Man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law (Romans 3:28).” “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost (Titus 3:5).” “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast (Ephesians 2:8-9)” We can’t have true righteousness without the power of God’s grace doing the works in us. When we set up rules and laws, even God’s laws, and disconnect from God, we are trying to earn salvation without Christ.
Righteousness is a gift from God to us, not a gift from us to God. Christ saves us from sin and the sinful nature, but Christ is also being formed in us from glory to glory by the Spirit of the Lord. Christ is formed in us as we listen to God’s leading and Christ authors faith in us, which gives us access to God’s grace, which does God’s works through us if we yield ourselves to Him, which causes the flesh to die and Christ to be more fully formed within. Each time this happens, it’s one step in the Spirit.
Ask God to answer these questions.
What is works righteousness?
Why do some people talk about works righteousness?
What is the difference between works that grace does and works the flesh does?
Why can’t we earn our salvation by doing good things?
Why are our good works called filthy rags in Scripture?
Bonus questions:
How does God’s grace do the right things through you? What’s the process?
What is the relationship between faith, works, and salvation?
In the light of faith-based justification, what does 1 John 3:7 mean when it says, “The one who does what is right is righteous”?
What does it mean to be justified by faith?
The Bible says your righteousness is as filthy rags. And yet, God promises righteousness. How can both of these be true?
What role does God’s grace play in true righteousness and goodness?
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