No. Isaiah 64:6 (NIV), “All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags…” Even if we try as hard as we can, we are still sinners, and our deeds are unclean. The New English Translation of the Bible specifically translates the idea of filthy rags. Isaiah 64:6, “We are all like one who is unclean, all our so-called righteous acts are like a menstrual rag in your sight.”
Job asked a similar question in Job 14:4, “Who can make the clean out of the unclean? No one!” Our only hope to restore our relationship with God is through the forgiveness offered through Jesus. Colossians 1:19-20 (NET), “For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in the Son and through him to reconcile all things to himself by making peace through the blood of his cross – through him, whether things on earth or things in heaven.”
Additional Resources:
Christian Questions Podcast
Episode #1155: “Is It Faith or Works That Gets Us to Heaven? (Part I)”
Understanding the fundamental role of faith in our Christian walk
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes
Episode #1156: “Is It Faith or Works That Gets Us to Heaven? (Part II)”
The role works play in making our Christian faith transformative
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes
For a more detailed study about restoring our relationship with God, download the free PDF: “Jesus: The World’s Savior”
