Biblical exposition
Isaiah 56:1 says:
“Maintain justice and do what is right, for my salvation is close at hand.”
At first glance, this sounds as though people must behave well to earn salvation. Keller explains that this would contradict the Bible’s teaching about salvation by grace.
Illustration – Better watch out, better not cry
Keller refers humorously to the familiar Christmas song about Santa Claus watching children and finding out whether they have been naughty or nice.
The song suggests that children must behave well if they want to receive a reward. This resembles the mistaken interpretation of Isaiah 56:1: live a good life, and then God will save you.
Keller rejects that interpretation. He explains that God saves people by grace and then teaches them how to live as members of His new community.
Illustration’s point:
The Christian life is not about earning salvation through good behaviour. Good works are the result and expression of salvation, not its price.
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