Why are we secure in our salvation—is it because of what we do or because of what Christ did?
We are secure in salvation because of the finished work of Christ on the cross, not because of anything we have done or merit. God guarantees our place in the body of Christ, and no tribulation, distress, persecution, famine, nakedness, peril, or sword can separate us from His love.
Les explains that Romans 8 asks whether tribulation, distress, or persecution can force a believer out of his place in the body of Christ. The answer is never, because God has guaranteed our security due to the work of the cross. It is not because of what we have done or merit, but only because of what He has done. Les warns that we never maintain our assurance because of who we are or what we are; that is never part of the picture. Everything that keeps us secure is the finished work of Christ. Famine, nakedness, peril, and sword are also mentioned: many in Hebrews experienced famine and died of starvation, but that did not separate them from the love of God; Paul endured nakedness, cold, heat, and thirst, and was beheaded, not spared the Roman sword. Nothing says we will be spared, yet the promises are secure that none of this will separate us from our Lord.
Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth.
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Do we maintain our assurance of salvation by who we are or by Christ's finished work?
We never maintain our assurance of salvation and our security because of who we are or what we are; everything that keeps us secure is the finished work of Christ.