Christ-Based Assurance

[KenH]

The problem with works-based assurance of salvation is the same as the problem with works-based salvation. It is the product of unbelief and the poison of self-righteous legalism. It denies the glory of God as revealed in the glorious Person and finished work of Christ for His people. Whatever gives us assurance of salvation, it can only glorify God and exalt Christ if it meets the requirement of perfection. Although it is true that God’s people should always try to do their best to obey the Lord and work towards conformity to Christ in our attitude, character, and conduct, the truth is that perfection cannot truly be found in our works of obedience. The perfection that brings true GODLY assurance can only be found in the perfect obedience unto death of the Lord Jesus Christ as our Surety, Substitute, Redeemer, and Mediator. True GODLY assurance, then, can only come by “looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2), not by looking inwardly at our works. True GODLY assurance can only come by that which is incorruptible and unchangeable. True GODLY assurance can only come by resting our whole salvation in “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever” (Hebrews 13:8), “Who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens” (Hebrews 7:26); and to God “the Father of lights, with Whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning” (James 1:17). True GODLY assurance can only come from one who is willing and “able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them” (Heb. 7:25). What is our confidence when we stand before God at Judgment? Is it our own abilities and works? If it is, we are no better than the false preachers the Lord described in Matthew 7:21-23 who plead their works for salvation. We must, like the apostle, place our confidence in Christ and His righteousness alone – which I have committed unto Him against that day” (2 Timothy 1:12).

—Pastor Bill Parker, pastor of Eager Avenue Grace Church in Albany, Georgia, in their February 16 bulletin