The early church of Galatia was invaded by many false teachers. These false churches taught that Salvation began with faith in Jesus Christ; however, once having placed their faith in Jesus the continuance of their salvation was based on their subjection to the law. Paul’s response in Galatians is crystal clear. Salvation is by faith alone and not by the works of the law. The purpose of the law was to reveal to mankind his inability to come to God by works of their own hand. Over and over again, throughout history; mankind’s failure to live righteously before a Righteous and Just God through works of their own hand. How could it be then that anyone would believe they could keep their salvation by the works of the law performed by their own will?
Christ came, paid the price for our sin. He was the ultimate sacrifice, setting us free from the law we were so inept to keep by our own power. Rather we are called to new life in Christ Jesus.
“For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit” (Romans 8:2-4).
A New Life by Faith Not the Works of the Law
All who accept Jesus Christ as their Savior, are set free from the law of condemnation. That is not to live a life of debauchery; however, to in this new freedom to live a life of faith guided by the Holy Spirit. With our salvation held firm by Him and our sins past, present and future forgiven, no longer must we fear losing our salvation. He will transform our hearts from the inside out, that we might learn to live our lives in a manner worthy of our calling. Step by step, as we grow in our faith and our love for Jesus Christ; our lives will reflect the change. But this is never through the works of our own hands; it is the work of Christ in us.
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10).
Paul in Chapter 3 of Galatians lays out his case for this truth. He presents the truth. Because of the completed work of Jesus Christ on the cross, all who believe in Jesus Christ are heirs of the promises of God. Quoting from Genesis 15:6, “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness” (Galatians 3:6). No one was ever saved by works of their own hands. Even in the Old Testament, salvation was by faith alone; while they awaited the coming Messiah.
Galatians 3: 11-14
But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, the just shall live by faith. And the law is not of faith: but, the man that doeth them shall live in them. Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, cursed is everyone that hangeth on a tree: That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.
CONCLUDING THOUGHTS
The same truth remains. I could not through my own works ever live a life sufficiently righteous to stand before a Righteous and Holy God. Neither can I through works of my own hand maintain my salvation. It was by faith and faith alone that I was saved; because of God’s Grace. Held secure in that salvation within God’s mighty hand, who will never let go of me; I now live by faith and faith alone. Every step of this journey, the Holy Spirit has been at work transforming my heart. Each dark blotch He sees within my heart, He reveals. Then, He places things within my pathway, makes live scripture in my heart; that, I may repent and turn. Refocusing my eyes on Jesus, He is changing me into the likeness of Christ.
“Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord” (2 Corinthians 3:17-18).
Throughout my lifetime and many failures on my part, thank God; He never let go. Yes, I faced many trials and many tears along this journey; sometimes due to my own sin, sometimes because God needed to grow my faith, and sometimes for the good of the Kingdom. But let me say, I would walk through every pain again; just to know Him, as I know Him today. He is my greatest treasure. If tomorrow, I lose everything-all the rich blessings He has given me on this earth; I would rejoice in Him Alone. He is all I really need and desire.
DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR?
If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. Because there is nothing more important than this, I urge you to seek Him today.
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Recently released Books Available
ABIDING, STEADFAST JOY
A labor of love, this book provides you with 3 foundations of truth from the scripture which once known will provide you with abiding, steadfast joy. Undaunted by the storms of life; your joy will overflow.
WHEN INJUSTICE AND VIOLENCE REIGN:
Through a study of Nahum, Habukkuk, and Zephaniah; I brought their message into our modern times. Answering the questions of “Why, God?”
Providing a foundation of faith and hope; even, as we see so much evil in the world and in our nation. With so much sorrow and despair, this book I wrote to guide you into discovering God’s Perfect Plan of love; amid this chaotic world filled with life’s storms.
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©Effie Darlene Barba, 2017
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Footnotes and CREDITS
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