Saved Unto Good Works

Not for salvation.
1. Any attempt to add man’s efforts to what Jesus has done is a most serious error.
  1. Sinful human nature (sinful pride) always wants to say that good works deserve some recognition from God.
  2. Matthew 7:21-23 is Jesus’ answer to all who think that man can add to what Jesus has done.
2. The Bible and the Reformed faith maintains that man=s works cannot and do not merit with God.
Good works are rewarded, but it is the reward of grace (not because of any merit).
1. Some insist that if God rewards our good works, then that must mean that our good works have earned a part of our salvation.
2. But Scripture teaches that the power to do good works is of the Lord (Phil. 2:13; John 15:5; Eph. 2:10).
3. The Biblical word “reward” (Heb. 11:26) does not conflict with salvation by grace alone without works.
Salvation by grace alone does not make good works unnecessary, nor a condition to salvation.
1. Grace does not make the Christian careless about doing good works.
2. Salvation puts each elect into communion with Christ
3. Also God gives us a forgiveness and righteousness which makes us aware of His work toward and in us.
4. Further, those saved by grace (undeserved love) will never be careless and profane about his relationship to God.
5. Finally, God treats us as children (not slaves) giving us wonderful incentives to encourage us in our godly walk.