The Bible teaches the following two ways of salvation: (a) Salvation by good works. This was offered to Adam and Eve. When they disobeyed God, they fell and mankind fell with them. Since then, man is born in sin. As a result, it became impossible to be saved by good works. (b) God then gave the second way for man to be saved, i.e. salvation by grace. Grace refers to God sending Jesus to be born on earth as a man. On earth, Jesus lived a perfect life of obedience, went through humiliation and suffering and was crucified on the cross, all for our sins. We do not deserve this grace from God but out of His unconditional and sacrificial love for us, He provided this way of salvation for us, the only way.

1. God’s Provision (Eph 2:8)

Salvation by grace is a gift from God. Man is born in sin, he is totally depraved. No sin is too small or insignificant in God’s sight. There is nothing we can do to save ourselves. We must come to Jesus, repent of our sins and surrender ourselves unconditionally to Him. Note that we are in no position to bargain with God.

2. God’s Protection (Eph 2:9)

If our good works can contribute something to our salvation, we will become proud. Do not be like a Pharisee, thinking that our good works can put us in a better position to approach God. When we do good, all glory must go to God. Never push Christ to the background. Our salvation is by grace alone. It begins with Christ, continues in Christ, and will always be in Christ. This protects us in our Christian walk lest pride comes into our lives as a result of the good works that God enables us to do.

3. God’s Production (Eph 2:10)

We are God’s product, His workmanship. It is God who formed us, shaped us, moulded us. He has done everything to prepare us to be saved. Once saved, we are more conscious to use God’s Word to continue to grow in Him. We must not compare ourselves with others, complaining and murmuring about our situations. Thank God for who we are and be ready to always use our lives to serve Him.