Note From the Margin of My Bible (God's Free Gift)

This is another installment from the series of short articles by Wayne Jackson. This appeared in the Christian Courier in January 1989. Jackson was also the editor.

In his letter to the Romans, Paul declared that, "the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" (6:23). Similarly, the apostle wrote, "For by grace have you been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God..." (Ephesians 2:8).

There are many who read these precious words and, focusing upon the term "gift," conclude that redemption must be wholly dependent upon God, and that man therefore, is utterly without responsibility in the matter of his salvation. What these folks fail to realize of course, is the fact that a "gift" can be conditional, without there being any meritorious effort on the part of the recipient. Consider the following passages, making appropriate notations in the margins of your Bible at Romans 6:23 and Ephesians 2:8.

1. Jehovah promised to give the city of Jericho to ancient Israel (Joshua 6:1ff). Observe the use of the verb "given" in Joshua 6:2, 16. Clearly however, they did not receive the victory until after they had completed their obedience to the divine instructions for taking the city (6:20; Cf. Hebrews 11:30).

2. In that perilous voyage to Rome, when Paul and his shipmates appeared to be in danger of losing their lives, an angel spoke to the apostle and said, "Fear not, Paul; you must stand before Caesar; and lo, God has granted (given) you all them that sail with you" (Acts 27:24). Yet, this gift was not unconditional for Paul warned the soldiers, "Except these abide in the ship, you cannot be saved" (27:31). Even so, though salvation is God's gift, "Except one be born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God" (John 3:5). Obedience to the gospel is essential for salvation.

3. Jesus plainly taught that we are not to work primarily for the bread which perishes. Rather, we are to work, "for the food which abides unto eternal life, which the Son of man shall give unto you" (John 6:27). This context makes it wonderfully clear that working the works of God (i.e., obeying His will) and receiving His gift of salvation, are not mutually exclusive propositions. They complement one another. Christ is the author of eternal salvation to those who obey Him (Hebrews 5:9). Learn these valuable points and teach them to your friends.