Conundrum: Not saved by works. Condemned by them?

[jfrog]

Originally Posted by Esaias

Great question!

What is it about our works that brings condemnation? It is the fact that we have transgressed the law, because 'sin is the transgression of the law'. So then sin = crime. Once we have that basic understanding, the question becomes solvable.

Imagine a person commits various crimes, and are then caught. They go to court. They are charged with the crimes they have committed. Suppose they plead 'Oh but wait! I obey the speed limits, I obey this and that law,' etc. The court will still find them guilty, because their obedience to some laws does not overcome their violation of other laws: they are still GUILTY CRIMINALS.

Now, suppose the court grants them a pardon upon condition of repentance. In order for the pardon to be granted, certain other requirements must be met - not by the accused, but by the government itself, to ensure the system of law and order doesn't break down and result in anarchy by the offering of pardon - and let's say they are met. So all that remains is for the accused to accept the offer of pardon and return to being a productive citizen.

Now, their works (obedience to the laws) are not what procured their pardon and their escape from punishment - that was an act of clemency by the government in granting pardon to them. But suppose they return to a life of crime... does their pardon cover their new crimes? Of course not, so then they would be found in violation of the terms of their pardon (repentance), would be found to be criminals, and would suffer the penalty of the law.

Thankfully, God is even more merciful than that, in that he allows backsliders who were once pardoned, and who fell back into crime, to repent and be restored to the condition of pardon they had received.

But, we can see that one's actions or deeds can indeed lead to condemnation, and yet still not be sufficient for justification.

I would think that your system should be seen as a system where good works save you. Sure you couldn't have become free without the pardon but you cannot stay free without the good works (aka not sinning).

So your system is works based. Even though there may be unlimited pardons offered. In the end all the pardon does is give you a fresh start to attempt to not sin again.

I would submit that good works in your system are necessary for salvation but not sufficient by their selves. I would also submit that unlimited pardons are not sufficient for salvation but only a necessary condition as well. Because without good works (aka not sinning) you would immediately be placed back in jail.