Doug Brents
Active Member
"Salvation by works"? I do not now, nor have I ever believed in "salvation by works".You deceived believing in salvation by works, what else to say ? Thats not attacking your character, you probably a nice guy, honest and religious.
You are deluded in thinking that just because we have to perform an action (like looking at a bronze serpent, or dipping in Jordan 7 times, or marching around a city for 7 days, or giving our last piece of bread to a stranger, or being baptized) means that we are "earning" or "meriting", or in any way deserve the gift that was promised if those things were/are done.
Paul's contrasting "works" vs "grace" does not preclude ANY ACTION WHATSOEVER. Not all actions are actions of merit. As Jesus makes the comparison in Luke 17:7-10, a servant who does what he is told does not deserve even a "thank you" from his Master. He is completely unprofitable to the Master, but the Master has promised that He will give certain gifts to the servant if certain actions are performed (repentance, confession, and baptism).
Another example is the first commandments with a promise (Eph 6:2-3). Do we "deserve" long life and for it to go well with us just because we honor our parents? NO. But God promised it to those who do. It is not just wishing good to our parents, not just believing that God will bless those who honor their parents, but actually showing honor to our parents that is blessed by God.