Bible study: Ephesians 2: vv 8-10

“Salvation 101”
Text: Ephesians 2:8-10
“For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.”

Friends, there are countless systems of man-made religion that exist today, from the well-known to the virtually unknown. All of these religions have one or more sources of “authority” outside the pages of the Bible, particularly as it relates to what a person must “do” to “earn” entry into Heaven, or their “final destiny.” Moreover, some of these systems even pronounce an anathema, or a curse on those who do not obediently submit to these doctrines.

If you read our messages regularly, you know that we at Calvary Baptist Church, Riverhead respectfully stand firm in our position against man-made religion. Why? It is because the “gospel” of salvation advocated by all systems of man-made religion, without exception, places the emphasis on what sinners can or must do to earn their place in Heaven, or wherever they claim for their “final destiny.” The promises advocated by these man-made religions are seeds that may sound educational, authentic, and even pure. But in the end, they will prove to be synthetic seeds, full of error, and advocated by the spiritually blind who reject the one and final authority of the God inspired Scriptures as stated by Paul in 2 Timothy 3:16 regarding sound doctrine and Christian living.

Friends, there is only one way for sinners to be saved from their sins. Our text explains this in no uncertain terms. Here, Paul re-affirms the one and only process of salvation, and the purpose of the new birth. Verse 8 tells us that it is God who initiates the process of salvation by His grace, which is kindness that the sinner did not deserve (re-read Ephesians 2:4-7). “Through faith” means complete trust, surrender, and obedience to God’s Word. Moreover, salvation is “not of ourselves”, it is “a gift.” If it is a gift, it is given to you, it is free; you cannot earn it. Why? It is because Jesus fully paid the ransom to release all sinners who fully trust in Him from the certainty of hell.
If we cannot earn salvation, then salvation is “not as a result of works.” Why? “So that no one will boast” (verse 9) and believe that they played a role in “earning” Heaven; that is impossible! Finally, in verse 10, Paul states that the purpose of all true Christians is to represent Him as “His workmanship”, being “Created in Christ Jesus”, which is the result being born again spiritually by faith alone. The “good works which God prepared beforehand” refer to the fruit of a heart transformation. The works are not attempts to earn salvation, but pour out as result of thanksgiving to the Lord for His work in saving them, as they serve others and share that same message of hope.

Friend, if you have never fully surrendered your life to God’s free offer of grace, admitting your helpless sinful condition, and placing your faith in Jesus Christ alone, my prayer is that you would not waste time, and please, get right with God. If you are confused and would like to speak to our Pastor, Dave Cooke, myself, or one of our deacons or deaconesses, please call our office at 727-4112. We would be honored to speak with you.

Steve Visconti