10: This verse, taken in context, is not teaching salvation by works. As John had already said, repentance is the key. However, true repentance will not be forthcoming in the life of one who does not bring forth good works. The works follow the repentance. So, if repentance is not forthcoming, there would be no works to examine. In other words, though good works will be judged to determine rewards, without some good works as a result of true repentance, no works will be considered. The old concept of one’s good works then outweighing one’s bad works is completely false. A change of heart in faith towards the gospel brings salvation and ‘outweighs’ the bad works. Good works after that are simply evidence of the reality of repentance and faith, and will be judged to determine rewards.
Personal Journal Entry #12112
Prayer Journal Entry #12112
Daily Bible Reading: 1 Kings 18:1-19:21
Praise Journal Entry #12072: Heavenly Father, thank You for not following man’s ideas, but Your ways. Your plans are so much better. If You judged only on the basis of our works, we would be in a sad case indeed. Thank You for salvation! In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ I pray and praise You, Amen.