Caroline wrote: > I come from a tradition that says it is by grace we > are all there and I used to think all Christians believed > same. None of us deserves to be there. It still startles > me whenever I read various versions of "we got there > the old fashioned way - we earned it." :-)But I'm getting > used to it!
I think you are misunderstanding. Just because a believer speaks of deserving or being worthy does not mean that they deny grace. There are many passages that speak of those who are worthy of salvation and those who are unworthy of it. What do you do with that? Both concepts must be merged together for proper balance. The idea that we are saved by grace and have absolutely no worth to God is wrong. Grace is given that we might obtain worth and be worthy and deserving of that which God gives us. I think you know this already and agree, but I'm not sure based upon your comments above. Some passages which speak of our need to be worthy: Luke 20:35 (35) But they which shall be accounted worthy to obtain that world, and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry, nor are given in marriage: Matthew 10:38 (38) And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me. 2 Thessalonians 1:11 (11) Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power: Revelation 3:4 (4) Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy. Peace be with you. David Miller. ---------- "Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer every man." (Colossians 4:6) http://www.InnGlory.org If you do not want to receive posts from this list, send an email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] and you will be unsubscribed. If you have a friend who wants to join, tell him to send an e-mail to [EMAIL PROTECTED] and he will be subscribed.
