“Actually, Jesus himself answered this question. When asked by a rich young ruler what must he do to gain eternal life, Jesus answered: “If you want to enter life, obey the commandments” (Matt 19:17). So Jesus himself makes it clear that a good person who obeys all of God’s commands would merit or qualify for eternal life.”
But then the Jews were still under the law of the commandments. Jesus death and resurrection move us from the rule of the law to the rule of grace. God s word tells us, For by grace are you saved through faith, and that not of yourself; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast (Ephesians 2:8-9). God s grace is unmerited favor He gives to undeserving man.
Great explanation!