According to God's Word, people cannot be saved by works, because salvation is a GIFT from God that is based on faith...not on what people do:
Grace Alone
God saves people, because of the "work" of Christ to save us, on the cross...not because of who they are or what they do.
Faith Alone
Salvation is based on faith in Jesus Christ, not on people's own efforts or works.
Faith Expressed Through Actions
Genuine faith is expressed through actions and by publicly declaring beliefs. But don't get that mixed up, because baptism in itself, does not save you. It will never save you. People misinterpret scripture. John 3:16 does not say "those who are baptized and come to Jesus, can be saved." The thief on the cross who accepted Jesus as Savior, was not baptized.
Plead The Efforts of Jesus Christ!
People should plead the efforts of Jesus Christ, not their own efforts. If people could save themselves, they certainly would not have needed Jesus to die on the cross and provide a Mediator between God and man. God did not give man the authority to forgive his own sins. Only a pure, sinless sacrifice can save us from our sins, and that is Jesus.
Meaning that according to the law, forgiveness of sins cannot occur without the shedding of sinless blood, signifying the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
Jesus came down to save us out of his great love for us. He knew that was the only way that man could be saved. How can anyone save themselves from their own sins, when they are full of sin themselves? Makes no sense at all. Can never happen.
Jesus Christ has provided for total forgiveness from all sins. Not a lot of people talk about the blood of Jesus. It’s mentioned 427 times in the Bible. From the first book of the Bible, right up to the last one. Everything about your relationship with God is wrapped up in the precious blood of Jesus. By his blood we are redeemed, forgiven, justified and sanctified.
