An important discussion of the Apostle Paul in his letter to the Ephesians is summarized in Ephesians 2:8-9. This passage is familiar to all:
“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”
So often Christians have to discuss what the text is not saying, so as to protect against the doctrine of “Salvation by Faith Only.” This is laudable, and not to be criticized. But, it is good to simply express the truths that are established by this passage.
First, salvation only comes through God’s grace, here described as “the gift of God.” The word grace is the Greek word charis. It is defined by Thayer as goodwill, kindness, and favor. The fact that this favor of God is unmerited (undeserved) is made obvious in that it is said to be a gift, not the result of any earned actions on our part. Every part of our redemption (ransom in full), propitiation (an appeasing), is supplied by the blood of Jesus Christ, as the sin in our lives only can earn for us death (Romans 6:23). This was important to teach the Jews, who thought their standing with God was accomplished by their relationship as the “people of God” and their keeping of a law which Paul revealed could only bring condemnation.
Second, it is important to note that not everyone receives the favor of God. In effect, some are saved, some are lost. God deigns to bestow His favor, which brings salvation to man, only to those who have faith. We are “saved through faith.” But, faith in who or what? This answer is supplied throughout scripture. The apostle Paul wrote, “…knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ…” (Galatians 2:16). Simply put, God chose to save man through sending His Son to die on the cross. Jesus is the unique redeemer. To not have faith in that redemptive work it to miss out on the sole way to be reconciled to the Father. What make Jesus stand out before all others? Even if they were sent by God, they were sent as servants. Last of all God sent Jesus, His only begotten Son (cf. Matthew 21:37). A failure to recognize the singular nature of Christ and His work dooms one to eternal separation from the God of heaven.
Finally, since the redemptive work is outside of ourselves, supplied by God, we don’t have a reason to boast. If my redemption was based upon my good works, my diligence, my accomplishments. I could say, “Look at how good I am. Look at what I deserve.” I can’t do that because, like all others, I am a sinner, and in need of the gift of salvation. We are so thankful that God determined to save us by extending His favor in the person and work of His Son Jesus.
