Being an intensely conscientious group, we strive for the ultimate; to please God. Yet, such determination has backfired. We have replaced His efforts with our own. We work laboriously to save ourselves. This move isn't made from ego as much as assumed responsibility.
But it is all wrong.
When we work to be in the saved mode, two warped manners develop: (1) we become lenient and understanding of ourselves with great grace to overlook our sins, and (2) we simultaneously become highly critical of others regarding even their slightest detraction from God's Word.
Strangely, both oppose the call of God.
We cannot save ourselves. This is up to God through Jesus. We are not God. Our job is to submit to His call and let Him provide salvation. We want this; yet, somehow in the name of responsibility, we take on the role of judge for self and for brother.
It's weird, really, that the apostle Paul could see himself as sin-failured (Romans) and the very essence of chief sinner (Timothy); yet any who live in the church self-saved don't identify. Those of us who do identify get the picture that the need for salvation is bigger than once assumed.
Some of the Jews regarded Jesus as prophet and good man; nothing more. When one works for self-salvation Jesus has just been relabeled similarly...a prophet, a good man, but not a Savior.
When we realize we cannot possibly save ourselves via steps or service, we will then enter into the glorious reign of Jesus as King. Salvation then means something for we realize how far he brought us. Church shifts from obligation to gratitude. And, fellowship is filled with over-joy rather than endurance.
We cannot save ourselves. Thank you, God.
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