Why Do I Need Jesus? Isn't Being A Good Person Enough?
- authorkinite
- Nov 6
- 4 min read
In a world where many believe that being a good person is enough for salvation, the question remains: is that really true? Can moral behavior alone earn us a place in heaven? This perspective raises important questions about justice, grace, and the essential role of Jesus Christ in our lives. In this post, we will examine why being a good person falls short and highlight the necessity of Jesus for our salvation.
Episode 5 Airs Today at 12PM on Our YouTube Channel w/ A Special Guest!
The Problem with Works-Based Salvation
Thinking that our good deeds can earn us a ticket to heaven might be comforting, but it creates a significant issue. If salvation depended on our actions, who would keep track of all our good and bad deeds? How would we know if we've done enough to win God's favor?
Consider a balance scale where every good deed is weighed against a bad action. Living this way means we would always be in doubt. Are we doing enough? This constant uncertainty can lead to anxiety and fear. A loving God would not want us to live in fear of judgment.
The Analogy of a Just Judge
To better understand this concept, think of a just judge. Picture a judge deciding the fate of someone who has committed a serious crime. Even if this person has done many good things in their life, the law cannot simply overlook their wrongdoings. Justice must prevail.
God acts similarly. He is a just judge who cannot ignore sin. The consequence of sin is death, and justice must be served. Yet, in a remarkable act of love, God sent Jesus to bear the burden of our sins and pay the price. You could say, He offers us a pardon through Jesus, because Jesus took on the punishment that we could not bear and paid the price that we could not pay on our own.
The Story of Judge LaGuardia
A compelling example that highlights this principle comes from the story of Judge LaGuardia, who served in New York City during the Great Depression. One day, he presided over a case involving a destitute man who had stolen a loaf of bread to feed his starving family. The judge, understanding the man's dire situation, was torn; he knew he needed to uphold the law.
Instead of imposing a harsh sentence, Judge LaGuardia fined the man a small amount but went a step further. He reached into his own pocket and paid the fine on the man's behalf. This act of compassion satisfied the law while showing care for the man’s hardship.
In a similar way, Jesus fulfilled the requirements of justice through His sacrifice. He took our place, granting us grace instead of the judgment we deserve. This is why Jesus is essential; He paid the price we never could on our own.
The Nature of God's Love
God's love for us is immense and unconditional. He offers countless blessings and opportunities for us to know Him. However, if we continually reject His love and choose to live separately from Him, it would be unloving for God to force us to be with Him for eternity.
God desires an authentic relationship with us but respects our free will. He invites us to accept His gift of salvation through Jesus without forcing it upon us. The essence of His love is inviting, not coercive.
The Importance of Accepting Jesus
Accepting Jesus is more than just acknowledging He exists; it is about realizing our need for Him. We cannot earn our way to God through good deeds alone. Instead, we must have faith in Jesus, who provides forgiveness and eternal life.
When we accept Jesus, we recognize our shortcomings and embrace His freely given grace. This grace transforms us, empowering us to live in ways that reflect God's love and justice. It changes our hearts and leads us away from a life defined solely by our actions.
A Final Reflection
The question of whether being a good person is enough for salvation deserves serious thought. While doing good things is valuable, it cannot substitute for the need for Jesus. He is the bridge that reconnects us to God, paying the price for our sins and offering the gift of eternal life.
As you reflect on your life, remember that it is not merely about accumulating good deeds but about nurturing your relationship with Jesus. He is the answer to our deepest yearning. Through Him, we can experience true peace and assurance of our salvation.
If you find yourself questioning your relationship with God, consider reaching out to Him. Accept the gift of Jesus and allow His love to change your life. Being a good person is admirable, but it is only through Jesus that we can genuinely connect with God.
Let us know your thoughts by sharing a comment below. Don't forget to visit our YouTube Channel @WhyWeBelieveTV to watch the full episode 5 on this topic with special guess Brittany Jordan.
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