FAITH THAT SAVES

" And you hath He quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, by grace ye are saved; and (He) hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: that in the ages to come He might shew the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. 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. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them" (Eph. 2:1-10).

The Greek word translated "faith" is πίστις (pistis), meaning "a conviction of the truth." The Greek word translated "gift" is δῶρον (dōron), meaning "a gift or a present." From the text quoted above, it is clear that our salvation is the work of God, and not that of our own works. He has made us alive (born again). He has raised us up and placed us with Christ in the heavens. He has shown us His grace (unmerited favor), and His kindness. He has given us the faith to believe in His Son. He describes us as His "workmanship." He has begun a good work in us, and He will complete it (Phil. 1:6). He works in us both to will and to do of His good pleasure (Phil. 2:13). He empowers us to do His will (Acts 1:8).

He provides us with the "armor" necessary to defend ourselves from Satan (Eph. 6:10-17).

"...be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God...with truth...the breastplate of righteousness...the gospel of peace...the shield of faith...the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." Notice that every one of the items mentioned are from God; we have no truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, or sword apart from those given us by Him. God saved me, and as a result, all these things have been added unto me.

Because even the necessary faith that is required for us to believe and to place our trust in the finished work of Jesus on our behalf is a gift, we have nothing of which to boast. We are His workmanship! God is therefore "worthy...to receive glory and honour and power: for (He) hast created all things, and for (His) pleasure they are and were created" (Rev. 4:11). Yes, "worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing" (Rev. 5:12). Amen, and amen!