Understanding Justification
The Balance of Grace, Faith, and Works
The question of justification is one that has divided many believers. Some claim that we are saved by grace alone, others by faith alone, and still others believe their good deeds will earn them salvation. But what does Scripture actually teach when we examine it as a whole? The Bible speaks of different types of works, and understanding these distinctions is crucial in rightly dividing the Word of Truth (2 Timothy 2:15).
Grace: The Gift of Salvation
Salvation is ultimately a gift from God. Ephesians 2:8-9 (NKJV) states:
"For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast."
This passage teaches that salvation is not something we earn—it is given by God through His grace. However, does this mean that faith or obedience plays no role? Are there no conditions set in order to obtain His grace?
Faith: The Means of Receiving Grace
While grace is the foundation of salvation, faith is the means by which we receive it. Romans 5:1 (NKJV) says:
"Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ."
Faith is essential, but notice it does not say justified by “faith only”. The only place in Scripture where "faith alone" is mentioned is in James 2:24 (NKJV):
"You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only."
This means that true, saving faith is not merely belief—it must be demonstrated through faithful obedience.
Which Works?
The Bible speaks of different kinds of works, and understanding them is key to avoiding confusion.
Works of Merit (Useless for Salvation)
These are works done with the idea of earning salvation through personal righteousness. Isaiah 64:6 (NKJV) reminds us:
"All our righteousnesses are like filthy rags."
No amount of good deeds can make us righteous before God. Salvation is a gift, not a paycheck (Romans 6:23).
Works of the Law (No Longer Binding)
These refer to the works of the Mosaic Law, which could not bring justification. Paul clarifies in Galatians 2:16 (NKJV):
"knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ."
The Law of Moses was fulfilled in Christ (Colossians 2:14) and cannot save us today.
Works of Obedience (Essential for Salvation)
These are acts of faith that God commands, demonstrating our trust in Him.
Faith itself is a work – John 6:29 (NKJV): "Jesus answered and said to them, ‘This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent.’"
Repentance is a work – Acts 26:20 (NKJV): "That they should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance." (Jonah 3:10)
Baptism is obedience – 1 Peter 3:21 (NKJV): "There is also an antitype which now saves us—baptism."
Jesus asks in Luke 6:46 (NKJV):
"But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say?"
Justified by Grace, Through an Active and Obedient Faith
Salvation is by grace (God’s gift, he made the way that none of us could or can), through faith (our trust in Him), and includes works of obedience (our response to His commands). Works of merit and the Mosaic Law cannot save, but faithful obedience is necessary. As James 2:26 (NKJV) says:
"For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also."
We must not pit grace, faith, and works against each other; rather, we should recognize that they work together in God’s plan of salvation.