Catechisma

Lord’s Day 24

Q63. How can you say that the good we do doesn't earn anything when God promises to reward it in this life and the next?

This reward is not earned; it is a gift of grace.

Scripture Proofs — King James Version

1

Luke 17:10

So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.

2 Timothy 4:7–8

I have fought a good fight, I have finished course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

Modernized CommentaryZacharias Ursinus (1616)

Question

63. But don't our good works earn a reward, since God promises to reward them both in this life and in the life to come?

Answer. This reward is not a matter of merit but of grace.