Devotion Corner

Galatians 2:16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.

Bible critics attempt to argue that this passage is in contradiction to what is stated in James 2:21,25, where James observes that Abraham and Rahab were “justified by works”. However, this is very different to being ‘justified by works of the law’, as Dr Henry Morris wisely noted.

Neither Abraham nor Rahab could be justified by works of the law, as Abraham lived before the law was given under Moses, and Rahab lived in a foreign land unaware of the Mosaic Law. Neither one therefore, could produce works of the law to justify themselves as righteous before God.

The Word of God makes it clear in Galatians 2:16, Hebrews 11:31 and James 2:23, that people such as Abraham and Rahab were justified by faith in the eyes of God, and justified by works in the sight of men (James 2:18). A genuine, saving faith is always accompanied by “works of righteousness” (Ephesians 2:8-10, Titus 3:5), as it shows to the world the very true rebirth of the heart through Christ Jesus. The world sees the works, the Lord sees the heart. When both are true to one another, Christ dwells in the heart.

This new heart in Christ Jesus highlights to all through the selfless works conducted by the redeemed life, that it is by faith that we are saved. This faith is founded upon the finished work of salvation secured by Christ Jesus, in His atoning sacrifice and triumphant rising again from the grave. We are then justified as righteous before God all because of Jesus and His work, His atonement for our sins, and His glorious resurrection. 

The thankfulness of this eternal grace moves the redeemed heart to do such “righteous works”. The purpose being to show the eternal gratitude we have towards our Saviour for our salvation. It has nothing to do with attempting to secure our own salvation. The glory for our salvation belongs unto God alone!