In the progression of God’s plan of salvation, we find the essence of God’s amazing grace — that we are saved not by our own works but by placing our faith in Jesus Christ and His finished work on the cross. Our salvation rests on the truth of the gospel found in 1 Corinthians 15:1-4, that Christ died (shed His blood) for our sins, was buried, and rose again on the third day.

“Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law; for by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified.”   

Galatians 2:16

“But to him who does not work but believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness.”

Romans 4:5

Grace Beyond Works

No amount of good deeds or adherence to the law can earn us salvation. It is by faith in Jesus Christ and the finished work of the cross alone that we are justified before God. Our faith, a gift from God, secures our righteousness and reconciliation with Him (Ephesians 2:8-9).

Trusting the Finished Work

When we recognize our own sinfulness and acknowledge our inability to save ourselves, we humbly place our trust in Jesus. His sacrifice on the cross, His shed blood paid the price for our sins, and through faith alone (in the gospel), we receive the gift of eternal life (Romans 6:23).

A Free Gift of Grace

Salvation is not a result of our own efforts but a free gift of God’s grace (Romans 5:15; Romans 3:24). It is freely offered to all who believe  (not work), regardless of their past or present circumstances. God justifies the ungodly (Romans 5:8), declaring them righteous through faith.

Walking in Freedom

By knowing the truth that we are saved by faith and not by works, we are set free from the burden of striving to earn our salvation. We can confidently trust in God’s grace, knowing that His love and mercy are more than sufficient to cover our sins past, present, and future.

‘Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. ‘

Galatians 5:1

Living in Gratitude

Our response to this incredible gift of salvation is one of deep gratitude. We strive to live lives that honor God, not out of obligation or to earn His favor, but out of love and gratitude for what He has done for us (Ephesians 2:10).

‘that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; ‘

Colossians 1:10