INTRODUCTION TO SALVATION
While the Lord Jesus Christ is the central theme of the Bible, Christ's work in securing our salvation is equally significant. The doctrine of salvation can be compared to a magnificently cut diamond—it is multifaceted. It can be viewed from various perspectives, whether oriented towards humanity or God, each providing a unique understanding of what it means to be saved.
Not comprehending this "diamond" fully can result in extreme or one-sided interpretations of the doctrine of salvation. A prime example is the long-standing perceived conflict between the teachings of Romans and James in the New Testament—specifically, the concepts of GRACE and WORKS.
Romans 4:5 (KJV)
"But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness."
James 2:17 (KJV)
"Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone."
Philippians 2:12-13 (KJV)
"...work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you..."
These passages highlight the balance between faith and works in the Christian doctrine, emphasizing faith as the foundation of righteousness and the importance of works as evidence of genuine faith.
As illustrated in the Book of Romans, the Apostle Paul discusses the work of God's grace within us—the root; whereas, James examines another aspect of this multifaceted doctrine, focusing on the work of God through us, which serves as the manifestation of that initial grace—the fruit. The passage in Philippians interweaves these perspectives, underscoring the harmony between faith and works. For further contemplation, II Peter 1:3-9, particularly verse 5, enriches this dialogue.
The discourse extends back to the 5th Century A.D. with the "Augustinian-Pelagianism controversy," and has evolved through the ages, notably during the Protestant Reformation, into the "Calvinist-Arminian controversy." This enduring debate often arises from a rigid adherence to a singular viewpoint of God's multifaceted salvation, allowing each faction to find scriptural backing for their beliefs.
Students are advised to approach the doctrine of salvation with caution, avoiding extreme interpretations that overlook the comprehensive scriptural narrative on this subject. Achieving a balanced understanding is crucial.
Not comprehending this "diamond" fully can result in extreme or one-sided interpretations of the doctrine of salvation. A prime example is the long-standing perceived conflict between the teachings of Romans and James in the New Testament—specifically, the concepts of GRACE and WORKS.
Romans 4:5 (KJV)
"But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness."
James 2:17 (KJV)
"Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone."
Philippians 2:12-13 (KJV)
"...work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you..."
These passages highlight the balance between faith and works in the Christian doctrine, emphasizing faith as the foundation of righteousness and the importance of works as evidence of genuine faith.
As illustrated in the Book of Romans, the Apostle Paul discusses the work of God's grace within us—the root; whereas, James examines another aspect of this multifaceted doctrine, focusing on the work of God through us, which serves as the manifestation of that initial grace—the fruit. The passage in Philippians interweaves these perspectives, underscoring the harmony between faith and works. For further contemplation, II Peter 1:3-9, particularly verse 5, enriches this dialogue.
The discourse extends back to the 5th Century A.D. with the "Augustinian-Pelagianism controversy," and has evolved through the ages, notably during the Protestant Reformation, into the "Calvinist-Arminian controversy." This enduring debate often arises from a rigid adherence to a singular viewpoint of God's multifaceted salvation, allowing each faction to find scriptural backing for their beliefs.
Students are advised to approach the doctrine of salvation with caution, avoiding extreme interpretations that overlook the comprehensive scriptural narrative on this subject. Achieving a balanced understanding is crucial.