"For the wages of sin is death; but the GIFT of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." – Romans 6:23.
The Bible also states:
"For by grace are ye saved <get our way to heaven> through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the GIFT of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast." – Ephesians 2:8-9.
There is nothing we can do to earn our way to heaven. It is "not of works". No one will be able to say that he made it to heaven because he lived a good life. But the reason will be that he received the free gift, by faith – believing that Jesus Christ’s death on the cross was the just payment for his sin. We receive the gift by faith.
So, how do good works (living a life pleasing to God) fit into God’s plan ?
"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained <planned> that we should walk in them." – Ephesians 2:10.
Living a good life and pleasing God is the only way we have of thanking Him for eternal life. And it is the natural outflow of a grateful heart and a changed heart. Good works do not cause salvation, but they are the result of salvation.
Note what Jesus says about obtaining eternal life:
"Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life." – John 6:47.
According to that verse, what does it take to get everlasting life ? Believing on Him.
And when do we get the everlasting life ? Immediately. It does not say "will have", but "hath" (already has) everlasting life. So, from the moment that we truly believe that Jesus died for our sin, we have eternal life. And we cannot lose it, or it would not be "eternal".
Eternal life is a free gift. We cannot earn it, and we cannot lose it.
It is not based upon our performance, but upon our belief that Jesus paid the penalty for our sin.
"… Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house." – Acts 16:31.
If you would like to know more about how you can be saved, or have any questions, please contact us. We would love to answer your questions!
