The doctrine of rejecting works-based salvation is a fundamental tenet in Christian theology, emphasizing that salvation is a gift from God, not earned by human efforts or deeds. This belief is rooted in the understanding that human beings, due to their sinful nature, are incapable of achieving righteousness on their own and are in need of divine grace.

Biblical Foundation

The Apostle Paul is a primary advocate for the doctrine of salvation by grace through faith, as opposed to works. In Ephesians 2:8-9 , Paul writes, "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." This passage underscores the belief that salvation is a divine gift, not a human achievement.

Similarly, in Galatians 2:16 , Paul asserts, "know that a man is not justified by works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have believed in Christ Jesus, that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified." Here, Paul contrasts the works of the law with faith in Christ, emphasizing that justification comes through faith alone.

The Role of the Law

The Mosaic Law, given in the Old Testament, served as a guide for righteous living but was never intended as a means of salvation. Romans 3:20 states, "Therefore no one will be justified in His sight by works of the law. For the law merely brings awareness of sin." The law reveals human sinfulness and the need for a Savior, pointing to the necessity of grace.

Faith and Works

While rejecting works-based salvation, the New Testament does not dismiss the importance of good works. James 2:17 states, "So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead." This indicates that genuine faith will naturally produce good works as a fruit of salvation, not as a prerequisite for it. Works are seen as evidence of faith, not the basis of salvation.

The Example of Abraham

Abraham is often cited as an example of faith-based righteousness. Romans 4:3 declares, "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness." Abraham's faith, not his works, was the basis of his righteousness before God, illustrating the principle that faith precedes works in the economy of salvation.

The Teachings of Jesus

Jesus Himself emphasized faith over works in His teachings. In John 6:29 , Jesus says, "The work of God is this: to believe in the One He has sent." This statement highlights belief in Christ as the primary "work" God desires, aligning with the broader New Testament teaching that faith is central to salvation.

Historical Context

The rejection of works-based salvation was a central issue during the Protestant Reformation. Reformers like Martin Luther argued against the prevailing notion of salvation through indulgences and penance, advocating instead for justification by faith alone (sola fide). This theological stance was a return to the biblical teachings found in the writings of Paul and other New Testament authors.

Conclusion

The doctrine of rejecting works-based salvation remains a cornerstone of Christian theology, affirming that salvation is a gift of grace received through faith in Jesus Christ. This belief upholds the sufficiency of Christ's atoning sacrifice and the transformative power of faith, while recognizing good works as the natural outflow of a redeemed life.