The article explains Ephesians 2:8-9, emphasizing that salvation comes by grace through faith alone, not by works. The passage asserts that grace is unearned and a gift from God, meaning no one can boast about earning salvation through their own actions. The article critiques the views of the Roman Catholic Church and Iglesia Ni Cristo, which suggest that works, particularly obedience to laws, contribute to salvation. Instead, it argues that while good works are important, they are the result of salvation, not the cause. It differentiates between justification, being declared righteous by faith, and sanctification, the process of becoming more like Christ through good works.
The article asserts that salvation is by grace through faith alone, without works, citing Ephesians 2:8-9. However, this interpretation neglects the biblical teaching that works of obedience are integral to salvation. While the Bible indeed teaches that grace is a gift from God, it also emphasizes the necessity of obedience and works as a demonstration of genuine faith.
1. Faith and Works Together for Justification
The article’s claim that salvation is solely by faith contradicts James 2:24, which clearly states, “You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only.” This verse shows that while faith is essential, it is not enough for salvation. Faith must be accompanied by works, which are acts of obedience to God’s commands. Without works, faith is “dead” (James 2:17). Therefore, the Bible does not teach “faith alone” but rather the harmonious relationship between faith and works.
2. Obedience is Essential to Salvation
The Bible consistently teaches that obedience to God’s will is a requirement for salvation. Matthew 7:21 says, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.” This directly counters the idea that merely believing in Jesus is sufficient for salvation. According to this verse, it is not just faith, but doing the will of God—obedience—that leads to entry into the kingdom of heaven. Hebrews 5:9 further emphasizes this: “And having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him.” This verse affirms that salvation is granted to those who obey Christ, not just those who believe in Him.
3. Salvation is a Process Requiring Effort
The article oversimplifies salvation as a one-time event of faith, but the Bible presents it as an ongoing process requiring effort. Philippians 2:12 instructs believers to “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” This indicates that while salvation is initiated by God’s grace, human effort and obedience are necessary to continue in it. If salvation were solely by faith, there would be no need for the ongoing exhortation to “work out” one’s salvation.
4. The Role of Baptism and Membership in the Church
The article overlooks key biblical teachings on the role of baptism and membership in the true Church. Mark 16:16 states, “He who believes and is baptized will be saved.” This shows that belief must be followed by the act of baptism for one to be saved. Additionally, Acts 20:28 and Colossians 1:18 emphasize that salvation is found within the Church, which Christ purchased with His blood. Baptism and membership in the true Church are acts of obedience that are required for salvation, not optional works or signs of faith.
5. Good Works Are Commanded by God
The article acknowledges that Christians are “created for good works” (Ephesians 2:10), but it downplays the importance of these works in salvation. Good works are not merely the result of salvation but are part of the means by which believers remain in God’s grace. John 15:14 says, “You are My friends if you do whatever I command you.” Obedience to Christ’s commands, including acts of love and service, are essential for maintaining a relationship with Him and achieving salvation.
Conclusion
While the article argues that salvation is by grace through faith alone, the Bible presents a more comprehensive view: faith must be accompanied by works of obedience. James 2:24, Matthew 7:21, and Philippians 2:12 demonstrate that both faith and works are necessary for salvation. Furthermore, baptism and membership in the true Church are essential acts of obedience commanded by God for salvation. Therefore, salvation is not simply a matter of passive faith but an active life of obedience to God’s will.
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