Wednesday, September 17, 2008

...on error of approach.

"This focus on error of approach--of thinking we can earn God's approval by what we do--might seem like a fine distinction, but Scripture could not be more clear or strident. We cannot earn salvation, no one will have bragging rights in heaven, nor will God accept any "works" or "fruit" that come from self-generated do-good intentions.

Human religious energy is NOT something God has any interest in. In fact, since He has made provisions for us to access His very life and power, to choose to live in our own human resources is to reject His grace. His life, received by grace, will result in good works--to be sure. But how we approach God is critically important.

Are we hoping in the grace and power of Christ Jesus, or are we hoping to impress God or earn His favor on our own merits? The difference is as wide as heaven and hell."

by Acts 17:11 Bible Studies

3 comments:

Jamie said...

There is no good thing in the flesh. "Who will deliver me from this body of death?" The Law of the Spirit of Life in Christ Jesus! :)

Ursula said...

I love what you said about no bragging rights in heaven. Thats amazing. The first time the Holy Spirit took me to Heaven, it was something Jesus really took time to show me. It blew me away. I remember being asked to share it with our church, a woman came up to me, a pastors wife, and it really touched her. She had been told if she's not a good christian she will still go to heaven but only live on a dirt road. She has to WORK to live on a road paved with gold. Like we can work for that. This message brings freedom! Thanks!

Craig Glenn said...

Hey RJW and Ursula: Acts 20:32