Works Won't Work

O. T. #2196  "Works Won't Work"

May 20, 2022

Micah 6-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

Isn't it reassuring that we have a Righteous Savior who intercedes for us with our prayers to a Righteous God! Without Jesus, we have no righteousness, for ours is as filthy rags.

Paul tells us in Romans 3:25 about Jesus Christ, Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in His blood, to declare His righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God.

It was the blood sacrifice of Christ made on the cross that provided a way of righteousness which met the demands of a holy God. Wow!

The Israelites heard from Micah that they were guilty of sins of idolatry and forsaking the worship of God. In stead of repenting and confessing sins, Israel asked what they could do to get rid of their sins.

We find questions in verses 6-7, Shall we:

*bring something to the Lord?

*bow before God?

*bring offerings of year old calves, rams, oil?

*born-first children for our transgressions?

Were the Israelites trying to bargain or buy off God? They kept raising the bid, didn't they?

But God doesn't bargain with sinners, and none of the sacrifices they offered to bring could have cleansed them from their sins. Doing penance without truly repenting and trusting God's mercy only multiplies the sin and deadens the conscience. (Wiersbe)

LET IT GROW

In order to clarify the similar questions, Jesus said, in John 6:28-29,

This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent.

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. (Romans 2:8-9)

In other words, it is faith in Jesus that pleases God, not our works or good deeds. Although, they are evidence that we have a changed heart, broken in repentance. No amount of good works can atone for sin. The good things we do are evidence of our heart toward God.

Friend, have you come to Jesus by faith, asking His forgiveness of your sins?

Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. (Romans 3:28)

I want to throw in here that baptism does not save a person.

LET IT GO

Thank You Jesus for providing us with The Way to God and eternal life!

Help us let go of our self and works and come to You by faith.

All hail King Jesus!