Are We Saved By Works?
Answering this question depends on what kind of works one is
referring to, for the Bible speaks of many different kinds of
works. There are least three different kinds of works portrayed
in the Scriptures. First, there are works of the Law of Moses.
Since the Law of Moses has been abrogated, having been nailed
to the cross (cf. Col. 2:14), therefore, the accompanying works
of that law system have also been taken out of the way. Paul
specifically stated in Gal. 2:16, “Knowing that a man is not
justified by the works of the law, . . .” “The law” is a reference to
the Law of Moses.
Second, the Bible also speaks relative to works of human
merit. The Bible teaches that we are not saved by “works of
righteousness which we have done” (Titus 3:5). In Eph. 2:9,
concerning being saved, Paul said it is “not of works, lest any
man should boast.” Works of human merit refer to works that
man has orchestrated and contrived. No man has the authority
to devise his own plan of salvation to be saved now or
eternally. If this were possible, then there would have been no
need for God to have sent his only begotten Son to die on the
cross and shed his blood.
Third, the Bible also speaks of works of righteousness or
works of faith. To the household of Cornelius, Peter exclaimed,
“Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: But in
every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is
accepted with him” (Acts 10:34-35). This passage plainly says
that in order to be accepted of God, man must “work
righteousness.” James penned in James 2:24, “Ye see then how
that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.” James was
obviously not referring to works of human merit, but to works of
faith. “Faith only,” therefore, is false doctrine, yet millions
teach that faith only is the way to be saved.
When someone says, “We are not saved by works,” then he
must define what kind of works he is referring to. If he is
speaking of works of human merit, then his statement would be
true, but if he is referring to all works – no matter what – then
the statement is false. In order to be saved now and eternally,
I must obey the Lord, working his righteous plan to save my
soul (cf. Heb. 5:9; Matt. 7:21).