Are we saved and called according to our works?
No, salvation and calling are not according to our works. Scripture states God saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works. This aligns with Ephesians 1:11, where we are predestinated according to His purpose and will, not our own merit.
Les explains that the only way to reconcile these things is to recognize the sovereignty of God—everything began with Him and is in His control. In Ephesians 1:11, Paul writes that we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of Him who worketh all things after the counsel of His own will. Les uses the analogy that every child born, every sperm meeting every egg, is according to His divine purpose. Then in II Timothy 1:9, Paul declares that God hath saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works. Les emphasizes that we didn't deserve it. This confirms salvation and calling rest on God's sovereign will, not human works.
Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,
More Questions
Is God's calling based on our works or on His own purpose and grace?
God called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace — we did not arrive at salvation by our own effort or willing.
Does God save us because of our own effort or will?
Salvation and God's acceptance are not attained by our own sweating, running, or willing; they are not earned by human effort.