Ron Cosby
Romans 11:5–6 – Grace Does Not Exclude Actions of Man
Paul declares that salvation of the remnant is according to the election of grace, “Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace. But if it is by grace, it is no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace,” (Rom. 11:5-6).
This passage is often misunderstood. When preachers isolate and overemphasize the phrase “it is no more of works,” they create confusion. However, when we allow Paul to define his own terms, the meaning becomes clear.
The Problem of Redefining “Works”
Division arises when others, especially those from denominational backgrounds, redefine what Paul meant by “works.” For instance, one well-known preacher claimed, “Paul is saying that there is no place for works at all once we accept salvation by grace.” But that is not what Paul said. Another misguided preacher stated, “If salvation is a joint effort, where God does His part and now it’s up to us to do our part, then grace is no longer grace.” This is not true. It overlooks the fact that obedient faith and grace work together.
What Paul rejects is the need for grace if a man maintains perfect obedience as a basis for justification. That is what Moses meant when he stated, “For Moses writeth that the man that doeth the righteousness which is of the law shall live thereby.”
Defining “Works” According to Paul
To understand Paul’s point, we must let him define his terms. When he cited Moses in Romans 10:5, Paul clarified what he meant by “works” in Romans 11:5–6. “the man that doeth the righteousness which is of the law shall live thereby,” refers to complete conformity to God’s commands, to perfect obedience, a sinless life. If someone were to keep the law without transgressing a single commandment, as Paul said, he lives by so doing. Such a man does not need grace.
Jesus’s character and sinless life illustrate the righteousness described by Moses. Because of His sinlessness, He stood justified before the throne of God. The rest of mankind, however, stands guilty of sin (Rom. 3:23). Why is this a problem? Galatians 3:10 provides the answer.
The Curse of Imperfection
Galatians 3:10 says, “For as many as are of the works of the law are under a curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one who continueth not in all things that are written in the book of the law, to do them.” This verse shows us that a works-based salvation cannot justify except through perfect obedience, because anyone who fails to keep all of God’s commandments is under a curse.
Paul’s point is not that human effort is useless, but that relying on perfect law-keeping as the basis for justification is hopeless. Men fall short! Paul’s statement in Romans 11:6, ‘it is no more of works,’ underscores that perfect obedience would eliminate the need for grace, as imperfect law-keeping brings a curse.
Obedient Faith and Grace Work Together
This truth does not eliminate the role of faithful obedience. Paul never taught that grace excludes action or response. Rather, he shows that salvation comes through God’s grace, offered through the blood of Jesus Christ, which provides what a works based justification never could.
