Faith!

For Saturday, November 13, 2021

Ephesians 2:8-9 GNT: “For it is by God's grace that you have been saved through faith. It is not the result of your own efforts, but God's gift, so that no one can boast about it.”

We’ve been looking at “The Five Solas,” basic tenets of Christianity. “Sola Fide” or “by faith alone” teaches that good works are not a means or a requirement for salvation, and that our faith in Jesus is the sole basis for our redemption.

The thief on the cross believed in Jesus and was told, “Today you will be with me in paradise.” He didn’t have to get down off the cross and do good works, attend a church service, participate in communion or be baptized. And he certainly didn’t deserve heaven; actually none of us do. But his faith in Jesus the Christ locked in his eternal destination.

Just so you know, Christians are known for being gracious, helpful and loving. We do good things out of gratitude for the gift of salvation given to us by the work of Jesus. Good works are seen as evidence of saving faith, but the good works themselves do not determine salvation.

You can’t “earn” your way into heaven! You have Jesus; you have hope!

Pastor Norton Lawellin

Jesus in the City Fellowship, 3249 30th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55406