Is It Enough?
September 2020 |
There are many times when we ask the question, “Is it enough?” We plan a trip. We look at the bank account. We ask, “Is it enough?” We invite friends over for a patio party. We buy food. We ask, “Is it enough?” I suppose the most important time we should ask this question is in reference to our salvation. Whatever or whomever you place your faith in, is it enough?
Are My Works Enough?
Religion is based on requirements. True Christianity is based on relationship. Religions, and even some Christian denominations, have a mixture of divine directions and man-made mandates. Anytime there are requirements on members, the question has to be asked, “Is it enough?” Is it enough to meet the requirements set forth by the religious leaders of the church of which I’m a part? Is it indeed enough to meet God’s requirements? It is conceivable that you might be able to meet man’s requirements but do not be deceived. God’s requirements will never be met through works. “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” (Eph. 2:8-9).
Was The Cross Enough For The Thief On The Cross?
The thief on the cross asked of Jesus, “Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom” (Luke 23:42). Through his request, he was stating his belief that Jesus Christ was Lord. Would that be enough? Would the cross be enough to save this criminal? We find the answer in Jesus’ response; “And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43).
The Cross Alone
The cross alone was sufficient for his salvation. This man was not baptized in water. He died prior to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, so it is clear that he did not speak in tongues. He gave no money in the church offering, and he did no religious works. And yet, Jesus declared that he would be in paradise. The cross alone was enough.
The Cross Is Enough
For some, the cross merely begins the process of salvation. They feel there are other events that must take place in order to be saved, but that is not biblical. Nothing needs to be added to what Jesus did on the cross. Placing your faith in the completed work of Calvary is enough to be saved.
You Cannot Leave The Cross Behind
Many have left the cross behind, thinking it was only necessary for salvation. They feel that salvation is by grace, but additional works are involved in the process of sanctification. Wrong. You cannot be saved by grace and then sanctified by works. You cannot be saved by God and then sanctified by self. You cannot be saved by the blood and then sanctified by the sweat of your brow. The cross and the cross alone is enough, not only for our salvation, but for everything else we need as children of God. Only a true relationship with Jesus Christ brings life, sanctification, and spiritual growth.
Paul Emphasized The Cross
The central theme of Paul’s message was, in fact, the cross. “For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified” (1 Cor. 2:2). Of course, many opposed the idea of the message of the cross being sufficient. “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God” (1 Cor. 1:18). To Paul, the cross was the means of salvation, sanctification, and spiritual victory. That is why we preach the cross. Is it enough? Absolutely!
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