Can we get to Heaven by our own good works,
or is there something else in the equation according to Scripture?
Approximate running time: 6:34
I am reminded of Ephesians 2:8-10 when this
dynamic comes up regarding what is salvific --
For by grace have ye been saved through faith;
and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not of works,
that no man should glory. For we are his workmanship, created
in Christ Jesus for good works, which God afore prepared that
we should walk in them.
(a) We are saved by faith, which is a gift from
God. This is done so that we can't brag about our own 'goodness,'
as it is laughable compared to the glory of God.
(b) As followers of Christ, we are to be zealous
for good works (cf. James 2:20, 26; Titus 2:14).
Interestingly, even the 'Good Samaritan' passage
in Luke 10 does not include the word 'good' in the Greek text.
That title is merely an author's section (pericope) description
for easier reference in finding the Parable. However, what he
did was definitely merciful, compassionate, and caring, as Jesus
and his disciples make clear in the Parable. We can be 'good
people' by today's standards and yet miss the mark of Scripture
-- forgiveness and reconciliation through Jesus Christ.
Discussion questions
1. If you were before God's throne in Heaven,
and He asked you why He should let you into Heaven, what would
you say?
2. Where can you do a better job in serving
others through good works, in order to show our faith?
3. How does your lifestyle display what you
believe?
When the kindness of God our Saviour, and
his love toward man, appeared, not by works done in righteousness,
which we did ourselves, but according to his mercy he saved
us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the
Holy Spirit, which he poured out upon us richly, through Jesus
Christ our Saviour; that, being justified by his grace, we might
be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. - Titus
3:4-7
Credits
Narration: Sterling C. Franklin
Music: "Freely" by DJ Sterf
