Saved by Grace?

And now, fallacy number two.

Grace is the most important instrument of our salvation. But, however much importance we give to it, it is not the only instrument. Salvation is by grace in that it is impossible for us to merit. Without it there would be no hope. But grace only provides a way for us to gain access to the kingdom of heaven. We still must make the effort to get there.

A convenient way to understand this process is to picture it as a stairway that leads upward from an ignoble worldly life to ever increasing heights of glory in heaven. Spiritual rebirth sets our feet on the first landing. When we step up, we begin a process of ascension to our reward. It is by our works that we build the spiritual strength to ascend to whatever level of heavenly reward we hope to receive. However, as we ascend we are still functioning under grace. Although these rewards are gifts that God freely gives, and all the works we can possibly do are not sufficient to earn what awaits us; we still must put forth the effort to climb to where they are and receive them. Once we enter the door to salvation by yielding our lives to Christ, we are free to remain at the bottom of the stairs if we so choose. That will gain us eternal life—but our rewards will be minimal at best. It is through ascending that stairway that we earn “treasures in heaven.” It is not an escalator. We must ascend on our own volition through spiritual growth.

In many religious circles, grace has been overemphasized to the extent that works have largely been reduced to insignificance. However, how far we ascend that stairway will determine the extent of our reward. That climb, through reaching, learning, growing, and practicing, is what being a Christian is all about. What follows in this book, The Bible Beyond the Words, is spiritual, biblical, and scientific information that will hopefully stir the reader to become fully engaged in that process.

All that stands between us and a place by the throne of God is the extent of our willingness to diligently pursue the full knowledge of truth and the ultimate reward of that pursuit—which is absolute bliss, power, and glory in the presence of God. If we pursue a relationship with God with full intent, we will find the way open and well marked. But, let us remember: by grace we are saved—not by works; by our works we are judged—not by grace; by grace we are forgiven—not rewarded for works not accomplished.