Monday, April 10, 2006

Pure Grace

The concept of pure grace atonement is unique to Christianity. Other religions enforce a strict religious code to satisfy the wrath of angry gods. The more obedient a person is to that code, the more righteous that person is perceived to be.

Sadly, some Christians believe the same thing. They believe one must perform and complete certain acts or works to obtain salvation. They believe God's salvation must be maintained by constantly performing good deeds, and refraining from bad deeds. They teach an adherence to some strict (written or unwritten) moral code. If one fails to do certain deeds, God removes his salvation and condemns him to hell. He will also be condemned to hell for things like cussing, dancing, or drinking alcohol. He must maintain his salvation by attending church, visiting the sick, tithing, praying, etc., (the list is endless).

This explains why some Christians have no problem converting to Islam, or Christian cults. They simply exchange one form of legalism for a more rigid form. They take on a stricter set of rules to feel (or appear) more righteous, more saved. This rule-keeping has a form of religion and self-righteousness, but it promotes a system whereby one obtains God's salvation and acceptance through human effort.

God’s salvation is not earned. God’s salvation is not maintained through pious human acts. God bestows his salvation, freely. He decides upon whom he wishes to convey it, based on faith in Jesus Christ. He is obligated to save no one. He desires all to come freely.

There is no doubt that we, as believers, have obligations. Just like marriage brings certain obligations and responsibilities. Yet, we do not earn or maintain our salvation through keeping these obligations. We are saved by the blood of Christ. Payment was made one time, for all time. The debt is paid. Jesus' last words were,

"It is finished."

“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)

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