Perrydox.com is devoted to the pursuit of truth, whether plain or paradoxical, whether simple or sublime, or simply absurd yet absolute.
Acts 2:40 – Ironic Salvation
Do you know who believes in salvation by works more than anyone else? You might be surprised. Within Christianity there has been a perpetual discussion and disagreement on the place of works and obedience. Protestants condemn Catholics for their “Hail Marys” and Evangelicals are split between those affirming and decrying “Lordship Salvation.”
But I have observed that one of the most work oriented groups of people are…wait for it…the irreligious, unchurched, good ole joes. Have you ever heard these types of people defend not going to church by saying, “I’m just as good as those hypocritical Christians.” Either they are saying they are good enough to go to hell or just good enough to go to heaven. I think they mean the latter. Or how about “I don’t need to go to church, because I am a good person and God can be worshiped anywhere.” Their salvation is found in their own personal morality. And then there is the creed, “It doesn’t matter what you believe as long as you are sincere.” In other words, it doesn’t matter what God says or wants because He will accept whatever you decide to good enough.
Their salvation is found in their works, not the grace of God. This is not what Peter meant in Acts 2:40 – “Save yourselves.”
Titus 3:5 (HCSB) He saved us — not by works of righteousness that we had done, but according to His mercy, through the washing of regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit.
Comments