“I’ve obeyed all these commandments,” the young man replied. “What else must I do?” (Matthew 19:20)
If I feel that I must work for and earn my salvation, there is always a “what else?” How much love is enough? How many good deeds are enough? How many random acts of kindness will tip the scales of God’s justice in our favor?
Most of the world’s religions are works based and fear driven. Their adherents have to earn their salvation. Christianity is the only faith in which our salvation is not based on our good works. The Apostle Paul said, “For all have sinned and have fallen short of God’s glory.” (Romans 3:23) Just after this verse, however, Paul makes an incredible statement- “So we are made right with God through faith and not by obeying the law.” (Romans 3:28)
There are not enough good deeds or random acts of kindness that we can perform to earn our salvation or our way into Heaven. Paul said in another place, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.” (Ephesians 2: 8-9)
Do you ever wonder what else you need to do to earn God’s favor? I encourage you to put your trust in Christ alone for your salvation. You can never do enough on your own!
Annie and I are serving the Lord in the US, Africa, India, Nepal, South America, and beyond. We are training leaders and working closely with great local churches. Together, we can have an impact on so many levels. Just click here to get involved. Thanks so much!
