Series: Not of Works – A Series on the Gospel of Grace

Anchor Text: 2 Corinthians 11:13–15

⚠️Many denominations—especially in America—preach some form of “final salvation.”
Over the years, I’ve met countless people who didn’t even realize they were trusting in a faith plus something gospel.
Whether it’s faith plus fruit, obedience, baptism, law-keeping, or perseverance, the result is the same:
They weren’t resting in faith alone in the finished work of Christ on the cross. But in another gospel!

‘But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. ‘

Galatians 1:8

Satan’s strategy has never been to deny religion—it’s to corrupt it.

He doesn’t just appear in sin and darkness. He shows up in pulpits. In churches. In robes and suits and smiles. And the message he promotes sounds very holy.

“Live right.”
“Pursue holiness.”
“Faith alone isn’t enough—you must finish strong.”

It sounds biblical. But it’s another gospel—a deadly mixture of grace and works.

👔 Not What You’d Expect

Paul warned the Corinthians about false apostles who preached a gospel that sounded good—but was anything but grace.

“For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ.
And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light.
Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also transform themselves into ministers of righteousness…”
—2 Corinthians 11:13–15

Satan doesn’t show up saying, “Reject Jesus.”
He shows up saying, “Follow Jesus better… or else.”

🔥 A Gospel That Demands Holiness to Be Saved

The modern “gospel” being preached today sounds like this:

“You’re justified by faith alone—but only finally saved if your life proves it. You must bear fruit. You must pursue holiness. You must kill sin—or you won’t get in.”

It sounds like light. But it’s bondage in disguise.

“Are you so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are you now being made perfect by the flesh?”
—Galatians 3:3

This is Satan’s strategy: distort the gospel, elevate human effort, and make you trust in your performance rather than the finished work of Christ.

❌ These Are Not Minor Errors

Paul doesn’t say “be careful” with these teachers.
He says they are accursed (Galatians 1:9).

Why? Because they turn the good news of free salvation into a system of religious performance.

🗝️ Key Takeaway

Not all who preach righteousness are preaching the gospel.

Some are Satan’s ministers, preaching a message of condemnation dressed up as holiness.

But the true gospel is simple:

Christ died for your sins, was buried, and rose again. Believe it—and you are saved.