Faith & Works Vs Faith & Response

 

It certainly clear from Paul’s epistles that according to the “gospel of the grace of God,” which Paul received from the ascended Lord from heaven for the Gentiles… faith alone stands supreme as the basis of salvation.

“Therefore we conclude that a man is justified By Faith without the deeds of the law.” (Romans 3:28 (KJV)

“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9  Not of works, lest any man should boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9 (KJV)

“For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.” (Romans 6:14 (KJV)

Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;” (Titus 3:5 (KJV)

“And if (salvation is) by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.” (Romans 11:6 (KJV)

Yet, salvation by grace through faith alone in Christ’s cross, then implies a response to such love and grace. Paul succinctly expresses the normal response to God’s love as seen in the gospel of grace.

“For the love of Christ constraineth (Gk. synecho, binds) us…” (2 Corinthians 5:14 (KJV)

As genuine believers we willingly choose to bind ourselves as result of seeing and receiving His love and grace… without being required whatsoever.

Having this understanding, we can see why the righteous fruit of salvation could be expected to become manifest in a genuine believers life… as they begin to mature in their understanding and appreciation of such love.