Jesus is our only hope of salvation. But we miss out on many blessings he offers us if we are not attempting to be more obedient to his laws.
Legalism is putting our self-righteousness before the righteousness of Jesus Christ for salvation, but being a mature Christian means that we are willing to conform to his standard of conduct.
Not one of us is perfect, not one of us has any claim to salvation other than through simple faith in Jesus. However, there is a blessing to obeying the laws of God–we are rewarded in heaven according to our works here on earth:
“He will render to each one according to his works” (Romans 2:6, ESV).
“And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be” (Revelation 22:12, KJV).
Our works will be judged–not to decided our salvation, but to reward us for our obedience to God’s commandments.
Jesus said there will be rewards for people who patiently endure the attacks of Satan against those who are obedient to God’s will:
“Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you” (Matthew 5:12).
Jesus also said: “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also” (Matthew 6:21). Obedience to the laws of God do not save us, but there is a blessing to obedience to God’s commands.
God will reward us in heaven according to what we do here on earth.
~Stephen Beagles