“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.” Ephesians 2:8-9, KJV
God’s grace is showered abundantly upon all souls, yet only those who will respond in humility, sincerity, obedience and unyielding faith in God will be saved. Everything necessary for salvation will be provided by God to those who are willing to be saved. The only contribution we have to the plan of salvation is making the choice to accept God’s gift, there’s nothing else. Salvation is free, as a response to this gift we are compelled to demonstrate our faith and sincerity through our attitude, words, and actions (works). What does this look like? LOVE. Loving God and loving others…the agape type of love. God also gives us this! When we allow Him to fill us with agape love we come into obedience to God’s law (Ten Commandments). See: Deuteronomy 6:4-7; Matthew 22:35-40; Mark 12:28-34; Luke 10:25-37; Romans 13:8; 1 Peter 4:8; 1 John 4:7-8,19, additional verses. This is how we reflect the character of Christ, being the “image bearers” we were created and called to be. we bear fruit through the power of His grace.
Some good sources to read:
http://www.sdanet.org/atissue/books/qod/q14.htm
https://www.adventistreview.org/archives/2003-1539/wed.html
https://stewardship.adventist.org/page118
Two very well done videos on grace and works:
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2 Timothy 2:15, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” AND 1 Thessalonians 5:21, “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.”