Saved by Grace? Born Again? What are Our Works For? … Let me CLEARLY Explain it to You. You Will Be Shocked!!

There are many who are confused with the gift that God has given us through the sacrifice of His son. This can be understandable, due to so many variations of these concepts being taught. So, let’s break it down using the scriptures to offer some clarity.

God gave us this commandment:

1 Corinthians 6:9-10 (KJV)

“Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.”

Sounds impossible for us to ever reach this goal of living with God, correct?

God knew that we would come to Earth and sin…He knew this because He created us. If we were to stop right here, we would only see that, “It’s impossible to live with God, so why try,” Right?!? This is why it is important to understand the Entire Information that God has given to us, so let’s dive in.

Since God knew that we would sin, He provided a key piece regarding forgiveness from our sins, by sending His son to earth and performing what is known as “The Atonement.”

The Atonement, according to the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, refers to the sacrificial work of Jesus Christ that reconciles sinful humanity with a holy God. Though the word “atonement” appears only once in the New Testament of the KJV, the concept is central throughout the entire Bible.

Romans 5:11

“And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.”

This verse teaches that believers have received reconciliation with God — called “atonement” — through Jesus Christ.

Old Testament Foreshadowing

In the Old Testament, atonement involved animal sacrifices to cover sins temporarily. Sacrifice an animal for the group of people there to be forgiven of their sins. These sacrifices were the first step in understanding the fulfilment of when Jesus Christ would come to the earth and sacrifice himself to pay for the sins of all mankind.

Leviticus 17:11

“For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul.”

This shows that blood was essential for atonement, again symbolizing how Christ would shed His blood for us.

Christ’s Atonement in the New Testament

Jesus fulfilled the Old Testament types and shadows by offering Himself as the perfect sacrifice.

Hebrews 9:12

“Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.”

Isaiah 53:5 (Prophecy of Christ’s Atonement)

“But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.”

So, Jesus Christ, the perfect person would sacrifice Himself on behalf of us, so that we could have our sins forgiven, thus allowing us to qualify to live with God once again. Cleansed. That was the plan to make it possible for a person who is proned to sin, but cleansing him so that he can live on day in the presence of God.

The atonement can be seen in two of the events that Jesus did right before His death:

The Bible describes Jesus’ suffering in the Garden of Gethsemane as a time of deep agony, sorrow, and submission to the will of God. While it does not go into medical or emotional detail, it provides a powerful, reverent picture of Christ’s suffering as He prepares to bear the sins of the world.

Here are the main passages that describe His suffering in the garden:

Matthew 26:36–39 (KJV)

“Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder.”
“And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy.”
“Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me.”
“And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.”

When Jesus entered this garden, His entire purpose was to feel the sins of every one of us. Those who had already lived, as well as you and me. The pain and emotions that He felt during this time were unimaginable! Jesus was “exceeding sorrowful, even unto death,” indicating extreme mental, emotional, and spiritual anguish.

Mark 14:33–36 (KJV)

“And he taketh with him Peter and James and John, and began to be sore amazed, and to be very heavy;”
“And saith unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death: tarry ye here, and watch.”
“And he went forward a little, and fell on the ground, and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him.”
“And he said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt.”

The phrase “sore amazed“ suggests Jesus experienced overwhelming distress.

Luke 22:41–44 (KJV)

“And he was withdrawn from them about a stone’s cast, and kneeled down, and prayed,”
“Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.”
“And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him.”
“And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground.”

This is the Gospel that mentions Jesus’ sweat “as it were great drops of blood”, showing the intensity of His agony.

The atonement required that Jesus Christ take upon all of our sins, including the guilt, as well as all of the emotions associated with our sins. This is indeed what He did for us while in the garden.

The Second Part of the atonement required that He sacrifice His own life for US, which He did by being crucified upon a cross.

The scriptures powerfully records Jesus giving His life on the cross — not as a victim, but willingly, as the Lamb of God who came to take away the sin of the world (John 1:29).

John 10:17–18 (KJV) — Jesus Speaks About His Death

“Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again.”
“No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.”

Jesus voluntarily gave His life — it was not taken from Him.

Luke 23:46 (KJV) — Jesus’ Final Words on the Cross

“And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.”

Jesus entrusted His spirit to the Father and chose the moment of His death.

John 19:30 (KJV) — The Victory of the Cross

“When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.”

“It is finished” — the full price for sin was paid. His mission was complete. He did this for YOU.

John 15:13 (KJV):
“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.”

John 15:13 (KJV):
“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.”

…and again…

John 15:13 (KJV):
“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.”

Do you realize what Jesus Christ did for you? Do you know that all of the sinful things that you and I have done on this earth CAN be forgiven? Do you realize that because of what Jesus did, through His sacrifice, we can liver forever with Him…in Heaven? That is the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

You and me…we do not deserve what He did for us…it was a gift that we had no part in “earning our way” into heaven. He gave that unselfishly.

This is where “Saved by Grace” comes into play. Because of the Grace of Jesus Christ by offering His sacrifice, we can be Saved.

The Bible clearly teaches that salvation comes by grace through faith, not by our own works or righteousness. This is one of the most central truths of the New Testament — that we are saved by the unearned favor of God, made possible through Jesus Christ.

Ephesians 2:8–9 (KJV) — The clearest verse on grace and salvation

“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:”
“Not of works, lest any man should boast.”

Salvation is a gift — not something we earn, but something we receive by faith.

Titus 3:5 (KJV)

“Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;”

Our good deeds cannot save us — only God’s mercy and grace can.

Romans 3:23–24 (KJV)

“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;”
“Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:”

We are justified freely — meaning declared righteous — by God’s grace.

Romans 11:6 (KJV)

“And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace…”

Grace and works cannot be mixed — if salvation is by grace, it cannot be by works. It is important that you understand this concept in itself without applying WORKS into the equation. Being saved from our sins is a gift, and has nothing to do with any righteous works that we have done in our lives. A gift…from Him…not by our own means.

However, this gift requires something on our part. It is not automatic for everyone, “to live with Jesus Christ forever in heaven. WE must do something in order to allow the atonement to apply in our lives. What is that? We must be Born Again.

In considering Christian religions, there are a few different interpretations of what being Born Again means. Since this is a key step required by us, lets refer back to the scriptures and learn what it truly means.

The scriptures teaches us clearly that we must be born again to see or enter the Kingdom of God. This comes from the powerful and intimate conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus in John chapter 3. Here is that conversation:

John 3:3 (KJV)

“Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”

“Born again” is not optional — it is essential to spiritual life and salvation.

John 3:5 (KJV)

“Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.”

Jesus explains that this new birth is spiritual, involving both water (often seen as symbolic of cleansing or baptism) and the Spirit (the Holy Ghost giving new life).

John 3:6–7 (KJV)

“That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.”
“Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.”

Natural birth is not enough — spiritual rebirth is required.

1 Peter 1:23 (KJV)

“Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.”

So, what do we need to do to be Born Again? This new birth comes by the Word of God, through the power of the Spirit — not human effort. Being Born Again is simply being baptized and dedicating your life to Jesus Christ. The beginning of a “New You.” You have decided to walk away from the worldly life of sin, and have become born into a new life of following the Savior.

Born again is not a simple prayer offered at a church. Born Again is you deciding to change your life and follow Jesus. Continually repenting of your sins, and trying to live your best life. This is what it means to be Born Again.

Back to Gods plan. He knew that even those who are Born Again would make mistakes. He is not demanding perfection from us. However, I have found that in my life, after dedicating my life to following Jesus Christ, my desire to sin has diminished. The closer that I get to Him, the less frequent I make mistakes. THIS is what He expects us to do. I still repent frequently when I make mistakes. That is how we continue to use God’s gift of the atonement in our life after we have been born again. We do not have to live a perfect life after making this commitment, but to continually try to be better, and repent when we do make a mistake.

Can you see the process here? Do you see how it all works? If not, continue to prayerfully study this information. It is such an unselfish thing on the Savior’s part, but does require turning our life over to Jesus Christ from us.

If we do what I have described above, then we are promised to have our names written in the Book of Life.

Daniel 12:1 (KJV)

“And at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.”

Luke 10:20 (KJV)

“But rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.”

Revelation 20:15

15 “And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.”

This is another key point to understand. The scriptures make it very clear that if your name is not written in the book of life, you will face a different judgment, than those who have their names in the book. Let’s begin with those people whose names are not in the book. (Remember, this is for the people who do not do their part, and become born again).

The scriptures give a solemn and clear warning about the final judgment for those whose names are not written in the Book of Life. According to Scripture, this judgment takes place at the Great White Throne and results in eternal separation from God.

Revelation 20:11–15 (KJV) — The Great White Throne Judgment

11 “And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them.”
12 “And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.”
13 “And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works.”
14 “And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.”
15 “And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.”

Did you notice…This is the first time that our works have come up in this entire discussion. Yes, we have the responsibility to be Born Again, but those who are born again had nothing to do with our works. God hasn’t even considered works until this very time… Judging those who are NOT Born Again.

When does the “Great White Throne Judgment” take place? (Remember that this judgment will be at a different time from those Born Again).

The Great White Throne Judgment takes place after the 1,000-year reign of Christ — also known as the Millennium — and after Satan is finally defeated and cast into the lake of fire. This event is found in Revelation 20 and is the final judgment of the unsaved dead.

This judgment is for the unsaved dead — all who rejected Christ — and it occurs after the Millennium, just before God creates the new heaven and new earth (Revelation 21:1).

To see this timing, notice the sequence of these scriptures: What happens right before the Great White Thorn Judgment.

The saints reign with Christ for 1,000 years

Revelation 20:4 (KJV)

“…and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.”

After the 1,000 years, Satan is released

Revelation 20:7 (KJV)

“And when the thousand years are expired, Satan shall be loosed out of his prison,”

Satan deceives the nations and is then cast into the lake of fire

Revelation 20:9–10 (KJV)

“…and fire came down from God out of heaven, and devoured them.”
“And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire…”

Then the Great White Throne Judgment occurs

Revelation 20:11–12 (KJV)

“And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it…”
“And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God… and the dead were judged…”

So, for those who are not Born Again, they will be judged by their WORKS at the end of the 1000-year reign of Christ, and will all be cast into the lake of Fire. It will not be that some will be saved and some thrown into the lake…It will be everyone there at the time of this judgment being cast into the lake of fire, because none of them were born again.

Now, let’s learn about the judgment for those who are born again. When does this occur, and what are we being judged on?

It begins with the Rapture of the Church. Jesus will call the Born Again “to meet him in the air.”

1 Thessalonians 4:16–17 (KJV)
“For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven… and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up… to meet the Lord in the air…”

There are 3 different theories as to when this rapture will take place… At the Beginning of the Tribulation Period… Midway through, and at the End of the period. This writing is not about the timing of the3 Rapture, just note that the righteous judgment will be during this Raptured event.

A point to consider here. You can see, those who have not been Born Again and have died, are not called up to be with God during the Rapture, only the “Dead in Christ.” Those other people who are dead will come forth during a second resurrection occurring at the end of the 1000-year period and judged in the Great White Thorn Judgment.

So now we know the timing of this first judgment, but what will God be judging us on? Is it our Works? Is this where Works come into play for those who are born again? YES… It Is. This is when God will judge us from our “Works” However, I think that what I’m about to teach might surprise some of you.

Remember this scripture?

Ephesians 2:8–10 (KJV)
“For by grace are ye saved through faith… not of works… For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works…”

By being born again, we are already written in the book of life. We are already promised to live forever with Jesus Christ regardless of our works. We will live in an environment where Jesus Christ resides. So why would God judge those who are in this group by their works? Is it for us to receive a different Kingdom… Good, Very Good, and Awesome?

Revelation 22:12 (KJV)

“And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me,
to give every man according as his work shall be.”

Our judgment will be for rewards, not punishment for our sins. He will not be judging us because of the sins that we have committed. We will be judged for all of the GOOD things that we have done while upon the earth. All of us who are born again have repented as best we could for our sins, and God remembers those sins no more. There is nothing to judge here based upon sin. This is the time when God will review our Good Christlike serving, love, compassion and deeds that we have done to glorify Him, in order to give us our REWARDS.

This makes perfect sense to me. There are Christians who have become born again that have sacrificed and done perhaps more than other good born-again Christians. Is that fair to both of them, that they receive an equal reward? No, it’s not fair. God doesn’t think so either. He desires to reward us, not by comparing us to others, but rewarding us based upon the good things that we have done in our life. God calls these rewards “Crowns”.

Crown of Life

James 1:12, Rev 2:10

Enduring Trials and Persecution

Incorruptible Crown

1 Corinthians 9:25-27

Self-Discipline and Victory over the Flesh

Crown of Righteousness

2 Timothy 4:8

Loving and Longing for Christ’s Return

Crown of Rejoicing

1 Thessalonians 2:19

Leading Other to Christ

Crown of Glory

1 Peter 5:4

Faithful Shepherding/Teaching God’s People

This changes things for you, doesn’t it? Did you know that God will judge you solely for the purpose of rewarding you with these crowns?

Stop worrying about the things that you have done wrong relating to this judgment…INSTEAD:

*Be Born-Again

*Follow Christ

*Repent of those sins, and continue repenting for your mistake

*Then spend some time working towards these crowns

You will already be with Christ, and live forever with Him by being born again. After you have made that commitment to Jesus Christ, start working on your “Award Ceremony Crowns.” =)

Living a Christ-like life feels good immediately for us. Feeling good prompts us to do good things for others, but now you know there are different REWARDS that you will be able to receive based upon these good deeds.

I invite you to pray about everything that I have written, so that you can receive your own testimony of this plan. It is NOT complicated, but, rather simple once you know the details. This also brings clarity to all of the confusing teachings that are happening in different religious organizations…These are not my words or ideas…These are God’s words as given in the scriptures.

I hope that you can see the good news in all of this. Jesus Christ has made an incredible sacrifice for you…DON’T WASTE IT!!! Do the things that you must do, and you will have full access to the eternal blessings that have been written above.

I, once again, appreciate your support by reading the things that I write. Please share it with others so that we can get this Beautiful Word out to those who do not know the truth. God has asked us to do this, so let’s honor Him this day in sharing His word.

Please join me each day online at www.riverwilde.blog as we study the writings of the End-Times. May you Trust God to be with you today, and always.