@ghost-of-a-duke saidI don't think you have won but if you think you have, that's OK by me.
I like to win an academic argument.
@ghost-of-a-duke saidCall it how you see it. That's what I am doing. I am not going to rehash all the theology Rajk999 laid out. I am just tapping on a phone screen with one finger
But the interpretation is fully supported by the scripture I have provided.
The only way it can be justified where works are added plus the grace of Jesus Christ is if we do not allow the scripture to speak for itself, instead the meanings of the words have to be altered. We are saved by the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ through faith and that, not of ourselves. If there is no respect for the words of scripture you can make up anything you want. Some want it to be about them, not Christ as if nothing He did matters then, or now.
2 Timothy 1:8-10
English Standard Version
Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God, who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began, and which now has been manifested through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel,
@ghost-of-a-duke saidIt's certainly widely seen as an orthodox interpretation.
This is a correct understanding of scripture.
@fmf saidGod's grace is a result of faith, not earned by works, but it does lead to works done in His service.
salvation and good works are not linked; dependent is a better term . Except that both occur through faith.
Salvation and good works are inextricably linked by and to faith.
“for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure." (Philippians 2:13)
@ghost-of-a-duke saidI haven't once suggested that the Bible teaches that God's grace is "earned by works".
God's grace is a result of faith, not earned by works, but it does lead to works done in His service.