For what does the Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.” Now to him who works, the reward is not counted as grace, but as something owed. But to him who doesn’t work, but believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness.
Romans 4:3-5
Paul quotes Genesis 15:6 to point out that Abraham was justified by faith, which is very interesting because James quotes the same passage:
Wasn’t Abraham our father justified by works, in that he offered up Isaac his son on the altar? You see that faith worked with his works, and by works faith was perfected; and the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him as righteousness”; and he was called the friend of God. You see then that by works, a man is justified, and not only by faith.
James 2:21-24
to point out that his faith didn't stand alone, but was backed up by works.Here we see the balance: we are justified by faith, but our faith is evidenced by works.
Without faith in Jesus' sacrifice, we don't have anything. But if you claim to have faith in Jesus but your life is not affected, then is it real?
Father, thank You for saving us. May we work out our salvation in following You. In Jesus' name, amen
No comments:
Post a Comment