I would argue that most people believe somehow that "works" are connected to how someone is saved. Actually that is true only in one sense; my "work" of sin causes me to need salvation. Someone said it right when they said, "The only thing I add to my salvation is the sin that makes it necessary."
On the other hand, if this understanding causes you to desire less of God and more of a sin-filled life, you totally don't get it. Undeserved love and grace is not freedom to live how you please. It is the opportunity to live as you should.
I work not to earn salvation. I work because of my salvation. I work not to appease God. I work because it pleases Him....and me. When I sin I feel tremendous displeasure, not freedom. When I choose to not sin, I feel the freedom that comes from salvation.
Thus Paul's point in chapter 4.
Working out what God works in.
ReplyDeleteNot working for something, but working in light of something.
In view of God's mercies....
Not living in view of God's mercies is a red flag that perhaps none of His mercies have been realized.