In the Christian journey, few debates are as polarizing yet complementary as the tension between grace and works. This debate seems to find its ultimate resolution in Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 15:9-10. Here, Paul delivers a profound insight into the relationship between the two:
“By the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.”
This verse encapsulates the perfect balance between grace and works, a balance that we often struggle to comprehend. How can salvation be solely by grace, yet require works to give it expression? And how do we approach this without falling into the extremes of self-righteousness or passivity?
The Christian Dilemma
The question of whether salvation comes by grace or works has perplexed Christians for centuries. On one hand, Scripture clearly states that we are saved by grace through faith, not by works, so that no one can boast (Ephesians 2:8-9). On the other hand, James asserts that faith without works is dead (James 2:26). Both seem true, yet they appear contradictory.
Paul’s statement in 1 Corinthians 15 offers clarity. He acknowledges that grace is the foundation of all he has achieved, yet emphasizes his own labor, giving full credit to God’s grace for enabling it. This suggests that grace and works are not opposing forces but two sides of the same coin.
Grace Without Works is Vain
Paul’s declaration that God’s grace was “not without effect” points to an essential truth: grace must manifest through works to fulfill its purpose. Grace is not passive; it is a divine empowerment that calls us to action. To illustrate, consider a key and a door. The key (grace) unlocks the door (works), but the door is the goal. A key without a door is meaningless, just as grace without works is unfruitful.
Yet, works alone cannot accomplish the will of God. Works “by self” are tainted by pride and disconnected from divine purpose. True works are born of grace, flowing from a heart aligned with God’s will and empowered by His Spirit.
The Role of Consciousness in Works
A common misconception is that works naturally follow grace without any conscious effort. But Scripture warns against actions done without faith or conviction, labeling them as sin (Romans 14:23). Therefore, grace does not override our will; it equips us to act in alignment with God’s will.
Paul’s example reveals that the conscious execution of works—done with humility, faith, and a clear conscience—is what utilizes grace effectively. Without a deliberate effort to walk in obedience, the grace we receive may indeed be in vain.
Grace and Humility: The Key to Alignment
The foundation of utilizing grace lies in humility. Paul begins by acknowledging his unworthiness, calling himself the “least of the apostles.” This posture of meekness creates fertile ground for grace to operate.
Humility leads to thanksgiving, as we recognize the unmerited gift of grace—a gift so profound it demands a response. Thanksgiving becomes the catalyst for action, moving us to works that glorify God and fulfill His divine purpose. These works, when executed with a heart aligned to His will, bring satisfaction to our spirit and a clear conscience before Him.
Jesus exemplified this perfectly in John 4:34 when He declared, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me.” Earlier, He alluded to this spiritual satisfaction by telling His disciples, “I have food you don’t know about.” This profound statement reveals that true nourishment comes from obedience to God’s will, from works that flow out of a humble and grateful heart.
When our conscience is satisfied, it is a sign that our works are not self-driven but Spirit-led. Such works bear fruit, not just in the external world but within our soul, affirming our partnership with God in fulfilling His purpose.
Practical Application: How to Avoid Making Grace Vain
To ensure that grace is not in vain, we must:
1. Remain Humble: Continuously acknowledge our unworthiness and dependence on God.
2. Be Thankful: Let gratitude for God’s grace fuel our actions.
3. Act with Conviction: Be deliberate in our works, ensuring they align with God’s will.
When trials overcome us, it is often a sign that we have drifted from humility. Without humility, we risk backsliding, growing cold, and neglecting the grace that sustains us.
Conclusion
The intersection of grace and works is not a contradiction but a divine partnership. Grace empowers us, and works give grace its purpose. Paul’s life demonstrates that while grace is the foundation, works are the fruit. To live in the fullness of grace, we must embody humility, gratitude, and commitment to God’s will.
As we set our eyes on Christ and align our hearts with His, we ensure that the grace we receive is never in vain. Let us labor abundantly, not by our own strength, but by the grace of God that is with us. Amen!