Saved by grace in the Sacraments - 13

 

De Maria

1 day ago

 GR,

Please post where St. Paul mentions "faith alone". The only place I see "faith alone" it is rejected as a means of justification: James 2:24 King James Version 24 Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.

Saved by grace in the Sacraments - 6

 

De Maria

1 day ago

 BL-Well they may be true to you but not necessarily true to scripture. DM-On the contrary, they are absolutely true to Scripture since Scripture is based upon the Teachings of the Catholic Church. Jesus did not write any Scripture. He commanded the Church to teach and the New Testament is the result of the Teaching of the Church. BL-Purgatory and indulgences are both taught as truth but the only way to provide biblical verses to prove them is by taking verses out of context. DM-Let's see. Thanks for combining Purgatory and indulgences since they are basically the same Teaching. Both are based on the fact that there is a Heavenly Treasury where our good works are stored and God uses them to cleanse our souls of sin. There are many Scriptures to support both Teachings, but here is one, show me where it is out of context: Luke 12:33 Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth. Notice that Jesus is Teaching us to buy our way into heaven. With our alms we buy bags of heavenly treasure. Question, what is the heavenly treasure for? Answer, to release us from Purgatory. What is another name for the heavenly treasure? Indulgences. BL- justification is God's righteous act of removing the condemnation, guilt, and penalty of sin, by grace, while, at the same time, declaring the unrighteous to be righteous, through faith in Christ's atoning sacrifice. DM-Another word for God's righteous act which you describe above is "forgiveness". What must one DO in order to receive this forgiveness? Acts 3:19 Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord. Do you deny that repentance is necessary? BL-God's Word says that we are saved by grace through faith in Christ Jesus and not by our own efforts or works (Ephesians 2:8-9) DM-That describes that which happens in the Sacraments. It is in the Sacraments that we are saved by grace when we proclaim our faith in Jesus Christ. It is not our work, but the work of God. However, only those who have done good works can present themselves for the Sacraments. Notice Titus 3:5 says, "not by the righteous works are we saved, but by His mercy in the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit. This is the operation of God in which we must have faith. Colossians 2:12 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. BL-In his letter to the Galatians, Paul argues for “faith in Jesus Christ” as the sole avenue to “justification.” (Galatians 2: 16 know that a person is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have put our faith in Christ Jesus that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law, because by the works of the law no one will be justified.. DM-That doesn't mean what you think it means. Notice what it says about the Law of Moses, elsewhere in Scripture: Acts 13:39 And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses The Law of Moses does not produce perfect justification. It does not remove Original Sin. But expressing our faith in Jesus by accepting the operation of God, the regeneration and renewal of God the Holy Spirit, in Baptism, produces the perfect justification of the New Testament. Galatians 3:27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. BL-He expresses concern that the church in Galatia has returned to observance of the Mosaic Law and rituals and urges its members to despair of achieving justification through “human effort” and to instead solely embrace “faith expressing itself through love” . For Paul, “faith in Jesus Christ,” rather than adherence to Mosaic law, is the only way to be “justified.” DM-St. Paul is right. Notice that faith expressing itself in love, or better yet, Galatians 5:6 For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love. Faith which worketh by love is also a human effort. Let's see what else St. Paul says in Galatians: Galatians 6:8 For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. BL-If any one saith, that man is truly absolved from his sins and justified, because that he assuredly believed himself absolved and justified; or, that no one is truly justified but he who believes himself justified; and that, by this faith alone, absolution and justification are effected; let him be anathema. That is from the council of Trent and you might notice nowhere in the entire new testament do you find curses for anyone who does not believe exactly as you are told. DM-On the contrary, look at Gal 2:8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. There are a few others, but you may not recognize them as curses. For example, Matthew 18:17 King James Version 17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. To treat someone as a heathen and a publican is to cast them out of the Church and therefore to withhold from them the Sacraments of grace without which one can not be saved. BL- So I hold to scripture that tells me (Galatians 2:16 know that a person is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. DM-That is the Teaching of the Catholic Church. Faith in Jesus Christ is taught only in the Catholic Church. BL-And I do not hold to any church council that employs curses for obedience! DM-Then you deny the Teaching of Scripture. BL-2 Thess 2:15 A verse out of context. What is therefore there for? It tells you that the belief in the resurrection discussed in the preceding chapter is what Paul is referencing here , not that all traditions must be accepted. DM-So all you need to believe is the resurrection? Is that what you mean? Whereas, it is obvious that he is making reference to all of the Doctrines which are Taught by the Church because they come directly from Jesus Christ. Now, I also mentioned James 2:24 which says: James 2:24 Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only. By works a man is justified, not by faith alone BL-Any doctrine not found in contextual scripture should not be taught by any church regardless of whether it be Catholic or denominational. It is the Church which teaches the Word of God, just as commanded by Christ and there are many members in the church doing just that spreading the Gospel . DM-The doctrines of faith alone and Scripture alone are not taught in contextual Scripture. Any doctrine which contradicts the Catholic Church will not be found in contextual scripture.

Saved by grace in the Sacraments - 2

 

De Maria

2 days ago

 BL,

Certainly God does the saving. But He only saves those who do good works. Its very simple. You said it yourself.

Repenting is a good work. Following Christ is a good work. Notice what Christ said to the Rich Young Man. In order to be saved, you must keep all the Commandments, and then sell all you have and then come and follow Me. Matt 19:21. Nothing about Christ's righteousness being imputed to anyone by faith alone.

Saved by grace in the Sacraments - 1

 

De Maria

2 days ago

ROM,

Its like this. You are saved by faith, but not by faith alone as some claim. And you may not be saved by showing up to Mass. But you won't be saved if you don't. See Heb 10:25-30.

And yes, you are saved by going to Confession and repenting of your sins. That is how a man reconciles with God. See 2 Cor 5:18.

And finally, you are saved by FAITH that God alone can save you, through the Sacraments which are the works of God, it is FAITH in His operation that one is saved, not by our works, but by the Washing of Regeneration which is the operation of the Holy Spirit. See Titus 3:5; Col 2:12

Do you have enough faith?

 DE MARIA May 26, 2013 at 6:18 am

Jason quoted Darryl:
Jason, you wrote that redemption becomes something we must pursue by faith and the sacraments. That’s a relief. Oh wait How do I know if I’ve pursued redemption faithfully enough?

That’s a good question. How do you know you have enough faith to be saved by faith alone?

Note that the question does not pertain to Catholics. We leave all such judgment to God. But Protestants are constantly crying out, even on street corners, “Are you saved?” And then they all claim salvation by faith alone. Therefore, how do they measure faith? And how much faith is enough?

Let’s take an example from Scripture. Abram left Ur in response to God’s call. But he was not declared righteous at that point. It wasn’t many years before he was declared righteous. And yet, Scripture declares him faithful at that point:
Hebrews 11:8
By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.

So, his faith was recognized at that point, but not his justification or salvation.

So, how much faith is enough faith to be justified? How much faith is enough faith to be saved?

Sincerely,

De Maria

salvation by faith alone is a shell game

1. DE MARIA May 26, 2013 at 5:34 am

   JASON LOH May 25, 2013 at 6:58 pm

   I think you have just reversed our respective theological positions. Protestants (confessional Reformed and Lutheran) do not teach and speak of salvation as being on the basis of one’s faithfulness but precisely on the faith and faithfulness of Christ.

   That’s the shell game Jason. You claim salvation by faith “alone”. Whose faith does that speak of?

   Besides, if it were by Christ’s faith and faithfulness, that would be universalism, the salvation of all regardless of their sins, which many of you preach as well.

   Or if you if will, salvation is God justifying the sinner apart from the Law.

   That’s a description of justification in Baptism and the Sacraments, where we approach God calling on Jesus name with complete faith that He will accomplish in us that which He promised, the washing of our sins.

   If I may add Luther here: If the sinner is judged but not saved on the basis of the Law, then God’s decree of justification is synonymous with election and predestination. Thus, Romans 9:18 – “[He] hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardeneth” as quoted by Jonathan (actually) support the Protestant position (and not the RC) since it clearly refers to 1. unconditional predestination and 2. particular salvific will of God. No. 1 is not official or mainstream RC teaching and No.2 is explicitly condemned by the Church.

   You read that as though God was flippant. But God has already revealed to whom He will show His mercy:
   Exodus 20:6
   King James Version (KJV)
   6 And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.

   Those who keep the Commandments, those who do the works of God, those who obey His Son, are they whom He will justify and save. That is from Scripture, properly understood:
   Romans 2:13
   King James Version (KJV)
   13 (For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified.

   Sincerely,

   De Maria

Questions about OSAS for Protestants

Questions for Protestants

First, am I right that you don’t believe that anyone who has once professed Christ in faith, can turn away from Him?

Second, am I also right in understanding that you believe that Christ’s sheep know who they are and that they are assured of salvation?

Here's what Scripture says to me:

Matthew 7:21-23
New American Standard Bible (NASB)
21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’

Now, it seems to me, anyone calling Jesus, Lord, is doing it by the Holy Spirit. Am I right? 1 Corinthians 12:3

It seems to me, they had faith and were indwelt by the Holy Spirit and therefore, they called Jesus, “Lord”. Does my logic follow, so far?

will enter the kingdom of heaven,

Let me back up a bit. The entire idea which Jesus just pronounced is this:

Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord, will enter the kingdom of heaven,

That says nothing about rewards. Nothing about eternal life. It just says that they will not enter the Kingdom of Heaven. But it is in the Kingdom of Heaven that the elect dwell and enjoy their rewards, one of which is eternal life, isn’t it? Or does one enjoy these rewards including eternal life, outside of heaven in eternity?

It sounds rhetorical, but its a serious question. I answer, “No. One can not enjoy his crowns and rewards (i.e. sit on thrones, Luke 22:30) nor eternal life outside of heaven. Or at least, they are not permanent until they reside in Heaven, with God.”

but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter.

This expression sounds very clear. Those who do the will of the Father will enter heaven. Of course, the will of the Father is to believe in Christ. But then, these people called Jesus, Lord, so purportedly, they believed in Christ. Is there more to the Father’s will than merely proclaiming faith in Christ?

Here’s what the Father said directly to the People of God,
Luke 9:35
New American Standard Bible (NASB)
35 Then a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is My Son, My Chosen One; listen to Him!”

This would seem to me to be an expression of His Will. Listen to Him. In other words, it is the Father saying, “Obey my Son.” And that is the Father’s will. Do we agree?

In terms of Scripture interpreting Scripture, it also agrees with this verse:
Hebrews 5:9
New American Standard Bible
And having been made perfect, He became to all those who obey Him the source of eternal salvation,

So, there’s more to this, isn’t there? These folks should have been secure. But they seem to have received the surprise of their lives. But let’s continue.

22 Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord,

Jesus says that “Many” will call Him Lord.

did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many [a]miracles?’ 23 And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness.’

But He will say to Him, “I never knew you.”

So, even though, they thought they knew Him, He did not acknowledge them.

So, just from a simple study of those verse, I come to the conclusion that a simple profession of faith in Christ is not enough to assure one’s eternal salvation. And, that many who think they are followers of Christ, are not acknowledged by Him.

What do you think?

Sincerely,

De Maria

God accomplishes His works through us

DE MARIA June 8, 2013 at 1:34 pm

TOA June 8, 2013 at 7:14 am
The more that I interact on Christian blogs the more I realize that my pastor is right.
When I talk to him about people’s objections to the grace of God in favor of self-ascendant “Christian” schemes. he tells me, “The clay is baked.” He says, “why do you think Jesus told the disciples to dust off their sandals and leave?”

That is a false allegation. We neither separate the grace of God from His works accomplished through us, nor do we call it self ascendancy. It is you who describe it so. And it is this type of dishonesty which will prove your downfall.

In fact, it is you and all Protestants who practice so called, “self ascendancy ” since it is you who promote the idea of claiming your own salvation and thus usurping God’s authority to judge your soul.

Sometimes the clay is baked. And that’s it.
The older I get, the smarter my pastor gets.

Whether you are saved or not is God’s to decide. And God promised salvation only to those who obey His Son:
Hebrews 5:9
And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;

That means, keeping the Commandments:
John 14:21-24
King James Version (KJV)
21 He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.

22 Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world?

23 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.

24 He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me.

Sincerely,

De Maria

Those who are saved will be drawn from the pool of those who keep the Law.

Luther:

Yes, we have been over this and you still don't get it. So Cornelius was justified by works of righteousness prior to hearing words by which he and his household will be saved?

St. Cornelius was saved by God like all the rest of us. Enduring to the end.
Matthew 24:13  But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.

Titus 3:5 clearly states - that it's not by works of righteousness which we have done but according to His mercy He saved us..

That is correct. In the washing of regeneration which is Baptism.

In Acts 10:34-35, Peter prefaced his message with a frank admission. Up to now he had believed that God's favor was limited to the nation of Israel. Now he realized that God did not respect a man's person because of his nationality. He was not implying that Cornelius was already saved based on fearing God and working righteousness apart from believing the gospel. Cornelius already worshiped the true God, but this was not enough. He lacked faith in Christ for salvation (Acts 10:36,43). Acts 10:22 - "Cornelius the centurion, a just man, one who fears God and has a good reputation among all the nation of the Jews, was divinely instructed by a holy angel to summon you to his house, and to hear words from you." What were those words? To Him all the prophets witness that, through His name, whoever believes in Him will receive remission of sins (Acts 10:43).

A believer will be Baptized:
Acts 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Are you trying to imply that Cornelius was already saved based on his own merits? Then why did God's angel instruct him to send for Peter?

In order that St. Peter would Baptize him. Think about it. St. Cornelius had already received the Holy Spirit. The only thing that St. Peter could do for him was to Baptize him and thus God would wash away his sins and he would be born again a Child of God.

If a man can be saved without the gospel why bother to preach it?

1. Because it is God's will.
2. Because God wishes all men be saved.
3. Because the Gospel is the faith of Christ Jesus without which one can not be born again a Child of God.

There are many reasons. But I think you are asking, "what is the Christian advantage?" Frankly, the advantage we enjoy is in all those things which you reject. The Church and the Sacraments. The Sacraments are fountains of grace which Jesus Christ established so that we could live life more fully.

John 10:10  The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

It is because of the Seven Sacraments that St. Paul says:

Hebrews 12:21And so terrible was the sight, that Moses said, I exceedingly fear and quake
²²But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels,²³To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect,
²⁴And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel.

All who reject the Church and the Sacraments must await the Judgement before they can walk with the Saints.

Peter in reporting what had happened at Cornelius' house once he gets back to Jerusalem throws more light on why Cornelius, by the angel's direction, had been instructed to send for him. The angel had told Cornelius that "Peter shall speak words to you by which you and all your household will be saved" (Acts 11:14). So there were words Cornelius needed to hear in order to be saved. How does this passage highlight the necessity of baptism to be born again? Whosoever believes in Him shall receive remission of sins (vs. 43). Not whosoever is baptized.

Whosoever believes will be Baptized (Mark 16:16).
Those who believe and are Baptized will receive the remission of sins (Acts 2:38).

The gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on these Gentiles when they believed and prior to getting water baptized. They spoke in tongues and magnified God. They were already born again prior to being water baptized. "Can anyone forbid water, that these should not be baptized who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?" (vs. 47).

That doesn't say they were born again before Baptism. Nor does it say they were saved. As I have already pointed out multiple times. Receiving the Holy Spirit is not a guarantee of salvation. Simply read Heb 6:4-6.

By this we know that we abide in Him, and He in us, because He has given us of His Spirit (1 John 4:13). Because he had the Holy Spirit Cornelius abided in God and God abided in him. To abide in God and to have God abide in you does not describe someone who has not been born again but a saved believer who has been born again - such was the case of Cornelius before he was water baptized.

Abiding in God and God abiding in him describes a person who loves God and keeps His Commandments:
1 John 3:24 And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us.

Paul is speaking about the testing of works and says nothing about the suffering of souls.

1 Corinthians 3:15 If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.

He is simply teaching that in the Day of Judgment, the works of every Christian will be tested ("the fire will test each one's work") and everyone will be rewarded accordingly.

What are you thinking? That this person kept his works in his pocket? The fire will try the faith of the man which is recorded in his soul:
1 Peter 1:7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

Unworthy works will be burned up

What are unworthy works? They are sins:
Proverbs 11:18 The wicked worketh a deceitful work: but to him that soweth righteousness shall be a sure reward.

and the individual will lose the reward though he himself will be saved. If fire is referring to purgatorial pains, rather than the testing of works, why should those who had built with gold, silver, precious stones suffer along with those who had built with unworthy wood, hay and straw (since the fire test each one's work)?

Have you not read in Scripture?
Romans 8:17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.

Scripture sets the believer's heart to rest. "You were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God" (1 Corinthians 6:11). It's not purgatory's flames that cleanse the sinner from evil. The Word of God teaches that "the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin". The blood of Christ is thoroughly effective and purifies from all defilement. His blood really and actually cleanses "from all sin."

I agree. Where do you get it? I get it in the Eucharist:
Luke 22:20 Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.

Hebrews 1:3 - who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high. Purgatory denies the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice on the cross for sin. The Roman Catholic Church, in more ways than one, teaches that Jesus is not sufficient.

On the contrary, Purgatory is pure mercy which is effected on the believer by Christ without his interference at all. God could simply let the imperfect believer go to hell. But instead, because he built a foundation upon Christ, he will be saved, by fire.

Did the thief on the cross go to purgatory or to paradise with Jesus THAT SAME DAY?

Why? Do you think that it is impossible for God? Or do you think the Thief saved himself?

How much time do people spend in purgatory according to the Roman Catholic church before they make it to heaven?

How much time to people spend on earth before they make it to heaven?

What bondage!

If it is bondage, it is the will of God we be bound and I accept the Will of God:
Revelation 2:10 Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.

Did Paul say that it was possible for him to be disqualified for the prize

Yes.

or to receive eternal life?

Same prize.

Any humble person who honestly compares himself to God would see their complete need for Jesus to save them

Amen!

and not turn to supplements (rituals, sacraments, works, etc..) in addition to Jesus (Romans 3:23- 6:23).

That's a funny attitude. Jesus commanded that we perform these rituals (Luke 22:19), receive these Sacraments (Mark 16:16) and accomplish these works (Matt 25:31-46; John 14:21-24). It is because of our faith in Christ that we do these things.

Jesus needs no supplements. He is an allsufficient Savior.

There is not a question of what Jesus needs. It is a question of you needing to obey Him.

"Castaway" in the KJV. "Disqualified" in the NKJV, ESV, NASB and "disqualified for the prize" in the NIV. Paul means rejected for the prize, not for salvation. What is the prize before Paul? Is it that reward of which he spoke in verse 1 Corinthians 9:18 , his glorying of preaching a free gospel? What have we learned about rewards? (1 Corinthians 3:13-15). Is salvation a reward based on works or a gift based on faith? (Ephesians 2:8,9). So you equate the wreath or garland which was given as a prize to victors in public games to receiving eternal life? Does that sound like a gift to you? (Romans 6:23; Ephesians 2:8). Verse 24 - Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. If we apply your logic here, many people are running in a race to earn their salvation but only one will receive eternal life.

That is your logic. The logic of St. Paul is very simple. RUN LIKE A WINNER.

Think of the Olympics. Out of all those competing in a race all run, but only one receives a gold medal. Does this mean that only the gold medalist goes to heaven and those who receive a silver or bronze medal go to hell? What about those whose works are burned up, but they are still saved? (1 Corinthians 3:13-15). Did they run in such a way to receive the prize?

How do you read Scripture? Do you read each verse as though it were completely alone without a Christian understanding to support it? Read that same verse keeping in mind this teaching:
Luke 13:24 Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.

Now do you understand what it means to run in such a way that you will obtain it?

In light of the context this does not mean loss of salvation. Through the self righteous lens of works salvation, it only appears that way.

Keep reading. Verse 17 - For if I do this willingly, I have a reward; but if against my will, I have been entrusted with a stewardship. No loss of salvation suggested.

Not that verse. Read the one before:
1 Corinthians 9:16For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!

Keep in mind what he has said elsewhere:
1 Corinthians 4:1  Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.  ²Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.

Therefore, WOE UNTO HIM WHO IS A MINISTER OF THE GOSPEL AND DOES NOT PREACH IT.

What had changed?

I suspect it is explained in 2 Cor:
2 Corinthians 12:1  It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord.  ²I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth such an one caught up to the third heaven.  ³And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth  ⁴How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.

You deny this, but your words say otherwise. Saved by commandmentment keeping, the sacraments, justified by doing the law, service of and witness to the faith etc.. WORKS.

The fact that you don't understand what I'm saying says much about the level of indoctrination you will need to overcome in order to come to the truth. God saves those who keep the Commandments. God saves those who keep the Sacraments. God justifies those who keep the Law. God saves those who show their faith in their works.

You don't save yourself by your reliance upon your faith alone or otherwise.

We are saved through faith, not works, not faith AND works. Why do you keep ignoring the lack of the word AND?

Why do you keep ignoring the fact that faith alone is dead?
James 2:17  Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.

Why do you keep insisting on a doctrine which directly contradicts the Word of God?

Another misunderstanding by the Roman Catholic church which has added another work to salvation through faith. In Matthew 10:32-33, the broader context of this passage relates to the fact that the Pharisees had continuously denied Jesus while the disciples spoke about Him in every city they visited. We might paraphrase His teaching this way: "Whoever confesses me before men (such as you disciples), I will confess him before my Father in heaven. But whoever denies me before men (like these Pharisees do on every occasion they get), I will deny him before my Father in heaven. Those who confess Jesus are those who recognize Him as being the true Messiah and trust in Him for salvation. This is descriptive of a believer, not an additional requirement to become saved.

That which describes the believer is OBEDIENCE.

Those who deny Jesus (and those who give mere lip service confession) but refuse to trust in Him alone for salvation place themselves beyond any possibility of salvation, since salvation is found only in Him. The word for "deny" is an aorist tense. This points to the fact that Jesus is not talking about a single instance of denial (as was the case with Peter, who actually denied Him three times - Luke 22:34), but is referring to life in its entirety. Hence, the person who throughout his life denies Christ (as was typically the case with the Pharisess and includes unbelievers who give mere lip service confession but don't truly believe) will be denied by Christ before the Father. This is descriptive of unbelievers. Lip service confession apart from saving faith is not genuine confession.

You have just described the man who professes faith alone. He is giving mere lip service to faith in Christ since he deems unnecessary all which Christ has commanded.

I do await His Judgment to have my works tested by fire in order to receive rewards and loss of rewards, not salvation or loss of salvation (1 Corinthians 3:13-15).

That just means you have accepted Purgatory. Because Purgatory is only for those who will be saved. Notice that the wicked DO NOT GO TO PURGATORY. It is only a mercy of God extended to those who did not achieve perfection in this life.

I don't claim to know how this will turn out. God has already revealed who will be saved and who won't be saved. I don't have to wait to figure that out. He who BELIEVES IN HIM is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already.. (John 3:18).

¹⁸He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
¹⁹And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
²⁰For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.
²¹But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.

Either we believe and we are saved or else we don't believe and we are condemned.

That is a false gospel.

Either we believe and do the works which God commands and are saved or we don't believe and deny God and are condemned.
Revelation 22:13  I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last.
¹⁴Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.
¹⁵For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that BELIEVES (Romans 1:16).

Keep reading:
¹⁷For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.  ¹⁸For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;  ¹⁹Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.  ²⁰For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse  ²¹Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.  ²²Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,  ²³And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.  ²⁴Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:  ²⁵Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.  ²⁶For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:  ²⁷And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.  ²⁸And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;  ²⁹Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,  ³⁰Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,  ³¹Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:  ³²Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.

But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which BELIEVE NOT.. (2 Corinthians 4:3,4).

Keep reading 2 Cor 5:9  Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him.  ¹⁰For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.

Either we BELIEVE the gospel and we are saved or else we don't believe the gospel and we are lost. God's Word is clear on this before the Judgment. There will be many self righteous people in shock at the Judgment who thought they should be saved based on their so called many wonderful works, (they confuse this with salvation through faith) yet they will be disappointed (Matthew 7:22-23). Jesus NEVER knew them.

Amen! Keep that firmly in mind. You think you are saved, relying upon your faith alone for salvation. But God is Great! It is He who is Judge. Not you.

That is what you have read into the Scripture. But the Scripture says otherwise.

If anyone's work is burned, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, (1 Corinthians 3:15). What have I read into this? It's crystal clear. He who believes in Him shall not perish, is not condemned, has everlasting life, shall receive remission of sins, is justified from all things, shall be saved (John 3:16,18; 5:24; Acts 10:43; 13:39; 16:31). Why is this not clear to you? (1 Corinthians 2:11-14).

It is quite clear to me. He that does these things will be saved. I pray that I am amongst those. But I will not rely upon my faith nor upon my works but upon the mercy of God. You on the other hand, have declared yourself saved. Obviously, you care nothing about what God thinks in regards to your salvation. YOU HAVE DECIDED. You can have your judgement. I will await God's.

If God says that we have been justified by faith (Romans 5:1) and I have faith, then I have been justified according to God, not according to me. These are His words, not mine.

You claim to have faith and justify yourself. God will reveal whether you truly have faith. God will judge.

And how many of us have perfectly obeyed the Law?

Who knows? Does any man know?

I already explained this to you more than once.

And I corrected your explanation more than once.

This verse refers to the Jews who had the law and who heard the law.

Read more. It is about Jews and Gentile. In other words, about everyone.

It is not enough just to have the law. It is not enough just to hear the law. A person must DO (obey) the law.

Thank you. Therefore, faith alone is dead.

Paul’s argument is very simple: The Jews had the law (possessed it), they heard the law, but they did not do the law, and therefore the Jews are condemned! Paul is not teaching salvation through observing the law here which is clear from Romans 3:20 - "Therefore NO ONE WILL BE DECLARED RIGHTEOUS IN HIS SIGHT BY OBSERVING THE LAW; through the law we become conscious of sin." For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and seeking to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted to the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who BELIEVES (Romans 10:3-4). Are you ready to BELIEVE?

I already believe. It is you having trouble.

St. Paul is teaching a very simple concept. Those who are saved will be drawn from the pool of those who keep the Law. Those who are condemned will be drawn from the pool of they who do not keep the Law.

Please continue to prayerfully seek the truth.

And you as well.

Sincerely,

De Maria