Episode Summary
In this episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, we conclude our four-part series on the interconnected biblical concepts of sin, grace, faith, and works. Pastor Mark, Calvin, Charlie, and Jon explore the proper place of good works in the Christian life, contrasting the biblical teaching with the Latter-day Saint (LDS) perspective.
The team examines how LDS doctrine distinguishes between “salvation” (universal resurrection) and “exaltation” (eternal life with God), presenting works as a requirement for the latter. They delve into fundamental LDS teachings, such as President Russell Nelson’s differentiation between conditional and unconditional gifts and Gerald Lund’s “powerhouse” analogy, which frames works as necessary for unlocking God’s grace. (NOTE that this article seems to have disappeared from the LDS website in November 2024.)
Drawing from Scripture, the discussion highlights that good works flow from faith as its fruit rather than a cause for justification. Stories like Abraham’s journey and Rahab’s faith illustrate that God declares believers righteous by faith, not deeds. The team emphasizes that works are done not for eternal life but from the gift of eternal life already secured in Christ.
Listeners are encouraged to marvel at the freedom found in the gospel and to joyfully serve their neighbor as an expression of love, not obligation. For further insights, the episode references Cari Osborne’s journey on Jesus Is Enough, illustrating how understanding the biblical order of faith and works transforms lives.
Key Takeaway: Good works are the natural response to God’s grace, motivated by love for him and service to others, flowing from the assurance that “It is finished” in Christ Jesus.
Links & Resources
- For more on works, check out this article on JesusIsEnough.org.
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