by Ray Yungen
On the other hand, Christ’s Gospel offers salvation to mankind through grace (unmerited favor). Romans 3:24 says, “Being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” Then in Romans 6:23 we read, “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
This “gift” is not earned or given as a reward for earnest effort or good intentions. Ephesians 2:8-9 states clearly:
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
The reason human effort does not work is because man is “dead in trespasses and sins” (Ephesians 2:1). The word works is translated “actions” or “doings.” This can either mean good deeds or engaging in religious rituals.
In metaphysics, the very word karma translates to mean actions or works. By your own effort and doings you are supposed to advance spiritually. If you are “dead” spiritually, as the Bible states, the concept of karma would be like trying to start a car without a battery.1
1. Ray Yungen, For Many Shall Come in My Name, 2nd ed., pp. 173-174.
