Abide In The Lord

Many religions believe that works are necessary in order to get saved. They deny that salvation is purely by God’s grace alone through faith alone, and “not of works, lest any man should boast” (Eph 2:9). If we study the context of our passage, James was not addressing how to get saved, but the Christian life in regards to our daily sustenance such as clothing and food (v. 15). He also asserted that if genuine faith is not manifested or showing any evidence by works, then it “is dead, being alone” (v. 17)! Paul addresses God’s plan of salvation by saying that if anyone “worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt” (Rom 4:4).

In other words, lost sinners must place their faith and trust solely upon the grace of Jesus Christ for salvation (Rom 3:24). By forsaking the filthiness of their sins (Isa 64:6), and self-righteousness (Rom 9:30), they must repent (Acts 20:21), and trust Jesus alone for His complete and perfect redemption (Titus 2:14)! James was emphasizing the results of genuine salvation from a believer’s perspective. The “fruit of the Spirit” (Gal 5:22), must be evident in our lives by having the desire to serve God (1 Cor 15:58), and diligence to obey His commands (Jn 14:15).

Those who “bring no fruit to perfection” (Lk 8:14), and are living in rebellion against God (1 Jn 3:8), do not possess true saving faith. They are deceiving their own selves (Jms 1:22), because they are merely hearing God’s word but are not intent on doing it! True faith will always produce works. It is faith alone that connects us with the true Vine. As we abide in Him, we shall “bring forth fruit” that remains (Jn 15:16). He saved us so we can become “His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works” (Eph 2:10). Salvation is God’s “heavenly gift” (Heb 6:4). We cannot earn it based on our own merits or even religion. Salvation will always produce good works! God bless you!

-Pastor Melito Barrera