How can we do the work of the Kingdom without it being a “works based” religion?
Discussion question for September 25, 2009.
We are saved by grace, and not by works according to Paul. We are commanded to do works to demonstrate our faith according to James. How do we maintain a proper balance in doing works of service? What signals can we observe to guide our actions? What should motivate us to do ministry?
Here’s my summary of our discussion.
The short answer: it’s a matter of personal motivation. I am at risk whenever the action (deeds) are done for reasons other than improving my relationship with God or bringing glory to Him. It requires true introspection to assess motives, and my traditions or culture can strongly influence my point of view.
There is a balance point in relationship between forces of love and law. By grace (love) we are saved, and our ministry actions will be an expression of that new condition. By actions (law) we know we are saved, and our relationship will demonstrate that new condition.
The standard for my introspection must be the health of my relationship with God. It may be human nature to compare self with others, but the risk is that I choose a standard only according to the outcome I want. In other words, I rationalize my current behavior by selecting a (sub)standard that I know I’ll exceed. Introspection puts the focus on ways to improve my relationship with God rather than justify my current condition.
Mother Teresa did extraordinary ministry, yet her private journals indicated an inner conflict whether she was doing “enough”. Works-based religion requires some sort of offset, good deeds against sin. Whether Mother Teresa was conflicted by that is unknown, but we should expect an increase in the fruit of the Spirit when our deeds are right. We can still be motivated toward effort for the harvest, but it will be accompanied with love, joy, peace …