Lord’s Library editors offer a collection of you are not saved by works Bible verses, with commentary, for your edification.
There are several key you are not saved by works Bible verses to know. The Scriptures reveal that you are not saved by religious works but by grace through faith in the Finished Work of Jesus Christ on the Cross. As it is written, it ensures that no one can boast about earning their way to God.
Ephesians 2:8-9 is perhaps the most definitive statement on this salvific topic: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” Here salvation is described as a gift, entirely unearned and freely given by God. Thus works of the law mustn’t play a part in securing this gift, as it is based solely on God’s grace and received through faith.
Then Ephesians 2:10 describes the proper place of works: “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.”
Below the fold are more key Bible verses that highlight how the Bible says you are not saved by works but through Christ’s Blood Atonement.
You Are Not Saved by Works Bible Verses
As it Is Written: You Are Not Saved by Works Bible Verses
Titus 3:5 is important in understanding how you are not saved by works of the Law: “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;” Here we see how it is only through God’s mercy, manifested in the renewing work of the Holy Spirit, that salvation is possible.
Romans 3:20 declares, “Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.” The law reveals humanity’s sinfulness and inability to meet God’s perfect standard. No amount of adherence to the law or good deeds can justify a person before God. Instead, justification comes through faith in Jesus Christ, as Paul explains in Romans 3:28: “Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.”
Isaiah 64:6 further illustrates the inadequacy of human righteousness: “But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags.” Even the best works we can offer are tainted by sin and fall short of God’s holiness. This verse serves as a humbling reminder that salvation cannot be earned through human effort.
Galatians 2:16 provides another clear affirmation: “Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.” Here, Paul explains that justification—being declared righteous before God—comes solely through faith in Christ and not through obeying the law. The works of the law cannot make anyone righteous because they cannot address the underlying issue of sin.
Philippians 3:9 highlights the believer’s reliance on Christ’s righteousness rather than their own: “And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith.” This verse underscores the truth that righteousness is imputed to us by God through faith in Jesus, not by our works or obedience to the law.
In contrast to works-based salvation, the Bible teaches that salvation is accomplished through the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross. John 19:30 records Jesus’ final words: “It is finished.” This declaration signifies that Jesus completed everything necessary for salvation. Hebrews 10:14 affirms this, stating, “For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.” Jesus’ sacrifice is sufficient, leaving no room for human effort to add to it.
While good works are the fruit of salvation, they are not the means of it. Trust in Christ alone for your salvation and rest in the sufficiency of His grace.
Lord's Library is a Christian resource hub. Our editors use a variety of internet research methods like search engines, audio and video, AI, consultations with ministry leaders in the field, and more. Lord's Library should never be a substitute for reading your Bible daily as the Scriptures are to be our final authority on all matters. Lord's Library participates in affiliate programs. We may make a small commission from products purchased through this resource.
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