Not by Works
Welcome friends to another week. For those not familiar with Frontier Days, it is an exciting time. I am always amazed at the tenacity of people settling in the west. They did not have any luxuries, but they had the strength of God and the will to succeed. These individuals-built churches, schools, and homes from nothing. For some, their faith was all they had. Many of the settlers depended on God's grace to help them. They did not succeed by their works but by faith.
Therefore, this week, I thought about those who do not understand Jesus' death but are always learning. It makes me think of 2 Timothy 3:7. In context, it says this: For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, 7 Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.
Many people, like the women described in 2 Timothy 3:7, continually read their Bibles two to three hours a week or more, always learning- but never understanding salvation. However, they are well versed in world history and other subjects about the Bible. These individuals are constantly seeking newer ideas and spiritual teachings. Though they root themselves in many traditions, including politics and other thoughts, they refuse to change their minds when it involves salvation. They become righteous in their own eyes. Their works become futile. In this instance, God compares their righteousness to dirty rags. The Bible also tells us no one is righteous. (Romans 3:10)
But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away. Isaiah 64:6
That said, due to their inability to understand the Bible, many people attempt to marry the old and new Testaments to fit their lifestyles. These individuals may not attend church or desire to be with others. They are content to study alone but will not engage in meaningful conversations that do not fit their biblical truths. Therefore, these individuals miss the mark of faith which leads to salvation. Sadly, these acts become dirty rags without value, meaning, or cleansing power. We cannot perform any great works that resemble the righteousness God looks for in us, which is the reason Paul tells the Ephesians this: For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast. Ephesians 2:8-10
Many believe if they follow the Law, their works are sufficient. Those under the Law are unaware that they have broken all if they break one Law (Ten Commandments). No one approaches God without coming through Jesus. By rejecting Christ's sacrifice on the cross, anyone in this thought process risk placing their eternal lives in grave jeopardy. Physical baths do not solve the problem. Thus, their work becomes futile and meaningless like filthy rags.
Sadly, dismissing the gospel is akin to throwing Jesus' work on the cross on the dirty floor and then stepping on it. Without faith, no one comes to Christ. Many do not realize the extent of their rejection or that its ramifications places them in everlasting jeopardy. In the same context, someone told me I should attend a real church and not be a slave. When events happen in our lives such as this, we must ensure we have put on the whole armor of God.
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. ... Ephesians 6:10-18
Jesus is very patient; however, no one knows when their last day on Earth comes. Though a person learns about the Bible, it does not mean they have a personal relationship with Christ. Our good works amount to nothing in God's eyes.
Paul's gospel says it all in 1 Corinthians 15:1-4. They read: Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; 2 By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. 3 For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; 4 And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: It says Christ died, he was buried, and he rose again on the third day. Once one believes these verses from the heart, the person will be saved from the wrath of God.
My friends, please pray for those who reject Christ or think their good works will get them into heaven. Time is short. I hope this blog is a blessing to all who search for Christ. His love is unmatched and will always continue. He offers salvation- no questions asked. I'd love to hear from you. Please email me at mailto:dorothy@savedheartfaith.com or mailto:dburrell38@yahoo.comI hope you have a great week. Please do not forget to visit YouTube for the shortened companion video to this blog. Thanks for stopping by.
