Pastor Curtis Riley
I. INTRODUCTION
What is the proper place for works? Where do they belong?
II. Man’s Works vs God’s Grace if the person is a sinner:
Romans 2:2 (NKJV)
III. The judgment of unbelievers: Romans 2:3-6, Romans 7:18 , Romans 3:20, Revelation 20:11-12
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Most unbelievers have the idea that their good deeds will outweigh their bad deeds. Standing on their own works. (Remember, they are not born-again.) Their works (good or bad) come from their flesh.
IV. Human Goodness vs Divine Goodness
Ephesians 2:8-9
Before salvation, works do not count. (Not saved by works)
Revelation 20:11-12, Titus 3:7
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After salvation, works count.
2 Corinthians 5:17-18, Ephesians 2:8-10 (KJV/AMPC), Romans 4:1-5
V. Is works a bad word?
James 2:20-21
Works are our witness (a synonym to God’s works = witnessing)
2 Timothy 3:16-17, Matthew 16:27, John 14:11-12, John 4:34, John 5:36,
John 9:4, Revelation 14:13
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VI. When are Works Wrong for the Unbeliever?
When they are used to earn acceptance or salvation from God.
Titus 1:15-16, Titus 3:3-5, Jeremiah 9:23-24
VII. When are works wrong for the believer?
When used by a believer to earn God’s love or the acclaim of other people.
Matthew 6:1-3, John 5:44, 1 Corinthians 10:31
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When used to cover sins.
1 Samuel 15:22, 1 John 2:1
VIII. Works are right when they are done in obedience to the Word of God.
James 1:22-25, James 2:18
IX. Works are right when they are done in obedience to the Holy Spirit.
Romans 8:14, Acts 5:32
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X. Works are right when they are done in love toward God and toward people.
John 13:34-35, Matthew 5:44, Hebrews 6:10
XI. Works are right when they are done as an entrance into the lives of people to introduce them to Jesus and recruit them into the Kingdom of God.
Mark 16:15-20, 2 Corinthians 5:20-21