A Good Word for Works

(Proverbs 24:12 KJV)  If thou sayest, Behold, we knew it not; doth not he that pondereth the heart consider it? and he that keepeth thy soul, doth not he know it? and shall not he render to every man according to his works?

This verse speaks in the gulf that is created by theology between grace and works.  We are saved by grace.  The Bible clearly teaches we cannot save ourselves by our efforts.  Only the sacrifice of the Perfect Lamb of God, Jesus, could pay for the sins that pollute and condemn us. 

At the same time we are expected to obey.  Just as the blood is not optional, neither is obedience.  God will “render” (7725) to us according to our “work” (6467).  This does not fly in the face of the New Testament.  We are often reminded of this even by Jesus who demands that we follow His commandments.  This does not fly in the face of grace or faith, but works along side.

So?  Don’t make excuses.  Don’t play games.  You already know enough to see where we need to work on our behavior.  Make sure that you hear those words, “Well done, Thou good and faithful servant.”