Avoiding the Trap of Works

Works is a fascinating topic among believers. Depending on who you ask, you may receive vastly different definitions or answers about what works are, or their importance in the Christian life.

The desire for good works, usually comes from honest intentions; we all want to do good. There’s nothing wrong with wanting that, and there’s nothing wrong with desiring good works. But for some, this whole desire can be subtlety turned and misrepresented into something destructive. 

The trap of works is nothing new— we see it repeatedly in the scriptures. But even though it’s very common, our natural self continually gravitates towards works in various ways. While you might be tempted to think it’s not that big of an issue, the scriptures warn us about how works can be very detrimental to our success, for one simple reason: the reliance and focus on our self.

You see, there are two types of works in the scriptures… self works, empowered and reliant on our self-effort, and the works of God, which are empowered and reliant upon His Spirit.

Christians often confuse and conflate these two types of works, opting for more self, while erroneously thinking that they are doing God’s will; thus the trap.

How To Defeat Sin (part 3)

Over the last two weeks, we’ve been exploring the “elephant in the room” of sin, and how we can have victory over sin through Christ.

We began with the foundation of the cross, and saw how the only way to bear good fruit is to change the type of tree we are. 

Next we saw how this change occurs— not through striving and self effort, but through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and living your new identity in Him.

Today, we will look at the practical side of how to apply these truths in daily life, using real examples from scripture to experience the victory over sin that Jesus paid for us to have.

Your Part to Play in Salvation

One of the most common questions that I receive in relation to the Gospel of Grace, is “so you’re saying that I have nothing to do; no part to play?” – and I understand that reaction. The Gospel of Grace in Christ is completely opposite to the typical message of religion, which says that we must constantly work hard, struggle and strive to earn redemption, please God, serve Him, and even work to love Him! Whereas the Gospel of Grace testifies that Jesus has done the work, made the final sacrifice, and we simply receive what He has done as a free gift.

Having said that, I do want to address this question and clear up any confusion, because you do have a part to play… though it might not be what you expect. So join me today as we examine what your part in the Gospel of Grace in Christ, actually is.