Grace and Works in the Christian Understanding of Salvation
> The question of how grace and works relate to salvation is a central theological topic in Christianity and a point of discussion between Mormons and evangelical Christians. Mormons often emphasize the necessity of both grace and works in the process of salvation, while evangelicals traditionally stress that salvation is by grace alone, through faith, not as a result of works. This article seeks to provide a biblical response to the question of salvation by grace versus works from a Christian perspective, aiming to clarify the evangelical stance while engaging respectfully with the Mormon viewpoint.
The Evangelical Christian Perspective on Salvation:
Evangelical Christians hold that salvation is a gift of God’s grace, received through faith in Jesus Christ, and not something that can be earned by human effort. This understanding is rooted in several key passages of the New Testament:
- Ephesians 2:8-9: “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” This passage is often cited as a foundational text for the doctrine of salvation by grace alone.
- Romans 3:23-24: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” Here, the Apostle Paul emphasizes that justification is a gift of grace, not the result of human righteousness.
- Titus 3:5: “He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit.” Salvation is attributed to God’s mercy rather than human merit.
- Galatians 2:16: “Yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified.” Paul argues that adherence to the law cannot justify anyone; only faith in Christ can.
– The Role of Works:
While evangelical Christians affirm that salvation is by grace through faith, they also recognize the importance of works as a fruit of faith and an indicator of genuine belief. James 2:17 states, “So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” This passage highlights that faith without corresponding actions is not a living, saving faith. Works are seen as the evidence of a transformed life, not the means of obtaining salvation.
The Mormon Perspective on Salvation:
Mormons believe that Christ’s atonement provides resurrection and eternal life to all, but individual salvation and exaltation in the highest level of heaven require obedience to God’s commandments and ordinances. They often refer to the Book of Mormon passage 2 Nephi 25:23, which states, “For we know that it is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do.” This suggests a synergy between grace and works in the Mormon understanding of salvation.
Engaging in Dialogue:
When discussing salvation with Mormon friends, Christians should articulate the biblical teaching that salvation is a free gift that cannot be earned by human works. However, it’s important to recognize that both traditions value the transformative power of Christ’s work in the believer’s life, which results in good works. The conversation can be enriched by exploring the relationship between faith and works and how each tradition understands the transformative power of the gospel.
Conclusion:
The evangelical Christian response to the question of salvation by grace versus works is rooted in the conviction that salvation is entirely a work of God’s grace, appropriated through faith in Jesus Christ. Good works are the natural outcome of a heart changed by grace, not a prerequisite for salvation. In dialogue with Mormon friends, Christians can affirm the life-changing impact of salvation that results in a life of good works while maintaining that these works are not the basis for our salvation. By focusing on the biblical texts and their interpretation, Christians can offer a clear and gracious response to this important question.
