Biblical Answer

The Illusion of Earning Our Way to Heaven

The idea that we can earn our way to heaven is a common misconception that has been perpetuated by the culture. This notion is not based on biblical teachings, but rather on a humanistic worldview that emphasizes personal effort and achievement. In contrast, Christianity is a grace-based religion that teaches that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ, not through our good deeds or actions. As the Bible says, "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast" (Ephesians 2:8-9).

The Reality of Salvation through Faith

The Bible teaches that salvation is a gift that is received through faith in Jesus Christ, not through our efforts or achievements. This is evident in the story of the rich young ruler, who asked Jesus what he needed to do to inherit eternal life. Jesus' response was not to list a series of good deeds or actions that the man needed to perform, but rather to call him to surrender his wealth and follow Him (Matthew 19:16-30). This is a clear example of the biblical teaching that salvation is not earned through our efforts, but rather is a gift that is received through faith in Jesus Christ. As the Bible says, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16).

The Call to Apprenticeship

While salvation is a gift that is received through faith, the Bible also teaches that followers of Jesus are called to a life of apprenticeship to Him. This involves surrendering our lives to Him and following His teachings, which are summarized in the Great Commandment to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love our neighbors as ourselves (Mark 12:30-31). As we surrender our lives to Jesus and follow His teachings, we will discover that our lives are transformed and that we are able to live a life that reflects the values and teachings of Jesus. This is not a path of earning our way to heaven, but rather a path of surrender and obedience to Jesus, which ultimately leads to a life of joy, peace, and fulfillment. As the Bible says, "Come, follow me" (Matthew 19:21).