Re: OK I’m Saved. Now What? If a person has accepted Jesus as their Lord/Savior and doesn’t believe their “works” save them, but still feels they have to be “good” to remain saved, is that person lost because they are adding “works” even though they don’t believe their “works” save them? I know believers, especially new believers, who would say they are saved through grace alone. However, they are scared and still feel like they have to be “good”. I want to know if those people are the same as the people who really do believe it is their “works” and Jesus who saves them.
It’s not possible for us to discern the true motives behind another person’s behavior. Often we don’t even understand our own motives. This is why Paul said,
“Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait until the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of the heart. At that time each will receive their praise from God” (1 Cor. 4:5)
Only the Lord knows whether a person is truly acting out of gratitude for what he’s already received, or is attempting to keep what he’s afraid of losing. But if you’re concerned it could be the latter, and are able to do so, talk with him or her about the permanence of our salvation. Or, simply provide a copy of the article you referenced. New believers can’t be expected to automatically know these things.