How does Romans 3:28 connect with Ephesians 2:8-9 on faith and works? Romans 3:28 at a Glance • “For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from works of the law.” • Paul’s bottom-line claim: God declares us righteous on the basis of faith, not law-keeping. The Same Drumbeat in Ephesians 2:8-9 • “For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast.” • Notice the shared elements: – Grace is the source. – Faith is the channel. – Works cannot initiate or add to salvation. – Boasting is eliminated. Paul’s Unified Message • Romans and Ephesians were penned by the same apostle; his theology is seamless. • In both letters, “works” refers to any human effort—whether circumcision, rituals, or moral achievements—used to earn standing with God. • Key cross-references: – Galatians 2:16 — “A man is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ.” – Titus 3:5 — “He saved us, not by works of righteousness that we had done, but according to His mercy.” – Romans 4:4-5 — wages vs. gift imagery underscores grace over performance. Why Works Still Matter—But Differently • Works are excluded from the root of salvation, yet expected in its fruit: – Ephesians 2:10 follows 2:8-9: “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works…” – James 2:17, 24 shows that genuine faith produces visible obedience. • Sequence is crucial: 1. Grace initiates. 2. Faith receives. 3. Works respond. Putting It Together • Romans 3:28 states the doctrine; Ephesians 2:8-9 echoes and expands it. • Both passages insist that salvation is: – By grace alone (source). – Through faith alone (means). – In Christ alone (object). • Works follow as evidence, not cause; they validate faith before people (James 2:18) but never merit favor before God. Practical Takeaways • Rest—stop striving to earn what God freely gives. • Rejoice—boasting is replaced with gratitude. • Reflect—let the certainty of grace energize good works that honor the Savior. |
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