Intro: Why the Bible Says Good Deeds Are Like Filthy Rags
The Sermon on the Mount teaches that good works are to glorify God—not to earn salvation (Matthew 5:16). Salvation comes from knowing Christ, not simply doing things in His name (Matthew 7:23). that good works are to glorify God—not to earn salvation (Matthew 5:16).
Similarly, Isaiah 64:6 boldly declares, “All our righteous acts are like filthy rags.” This powerful verse pierces the heart of human pride. It confronts our tendency to think we can earn God’s favor through our own good behavior. The Bible shows again and again that good deeds are like filthy rags when they are not born from faith, humility, and submission to God’s will.
1. Cain (Genesis 4)
Cain offered a sacrifice of his own choosing, not from faith or obedience. When God rejected his offering, he grew jealous of Abel, who brought a better offering by faith. Cain’s attempt to win God’s favor through his own way shows that self-made righteousness cannot please the Lord.
2. The Rich Young Ruler (Matthew 19)
This wealthy man asked Jesus what good thing he must do to inherit eternal life. When told to sell his possessions and follow Christ, he walked away. He thought salvation came through his moral record, but Jesus exposed his heart’s true allegiance.
3. Saul (1 Samuel 13–15)
King Saul tried to justify his disobedience by pointing to the sacrifices he offered. But God desires obedience more than ritual. Saul’s downfall illustrates that good deeds are like filthy rags when they mask rebellion.
4. The Pharisee in the Temple (Luke 18:9–14)
This Pharisee boasted of fasting and tithing, believing he was better than others. But Jesus praised the humble tax collector who cried out for mercy. The Pharisee’s “good deeds” were rejected because they were soaked in pride.
5. Simon the Sorcerer (Acts 8)
Simon believed and was baptized, but he thought he could buy the power of the Holy Spirit. His attempt to mix good works and personal ambition was swiftly rebuked by Peter. Salvation and spiritual gifts are not for sale.
6. The Israelites in the Wilderness (Exodus 32, Numbers 14)
Time after time, the Israelites tried to appease God through ceremonies and outward worship, even while their hearts were far from Him. Their golden calf and grumbling reveal the futility of works without love for and trust in God.
7. Judas Iscariot (Matthew 26–27)
Judas returned the silver after betraying Jesus, thinking this act might undo his sin. But remorse without repentance doesn’t lead to salvation. His self-devised solution ended in despair, not redemption.
8. Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5)
This couple gave a portion of their land proceeds but lied about giving the full amount. They sought to look generous before men while deceiving God. Their “good deed” was a cover for hypocrisy—and it cost them their lives.
9. Martha (Luke 10:38–42)
While not sinful in her service, Martha prioritized busyness over sitting at Jesus’ feet. She assumed her works would earn Jesus’ favor, while Mary simply listened. Jesus affirmed that devotion, not activity, was the better part.
10. The Galatians (Galatians 3)
Paul scolded the Galatian church for turning back to the law after receiving the Spirit by faith. They began in grace but thought perfection would come through human effort. Paul reminded them: “Are you so foolish? Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh?”
Why Good Deeds Are Like Filthy Rags Without Faith
Only Jesus was ever meant to fulfill the law perfectly (Matthew 5:17). We, on the other hand, are called to be poor in spirit, to mourn over sin, to hunger for righteousness, to forgive others, and to put our trust in knowing the Lord for salvation—not in ourselves (cf. Matthew 5:3–10, 6:14–15, 7:21–23).
This theme echoes throughout Scripture: human righteousness without God is insufficient. Good deeds, no matter how impressive, cannot save a soul. Isaiah 64:6 describes our best efforts as “filthy rags” when they are disconnected from God’s grace.
The truth is, God doesn’t want performance—He wants our hearts. Our actions only please Him when they flow from faith, love, and dependence on Jesus.
Final Thoughts: Grace First, Then Good Works
God calls us not to abandon good works, but to understand their place. Good deeds are like filthy rags when done to earn God’s love. But when they come from a heart already saved by grace, they become acts of gratitude.
Let the stories of these 10 Bible characters be a reminder: salvation is never earned. It’s received by faith alone, and good works should follow as fruit, not as currency.
Prayer for Repentance
Heavenly Father,
I come before You recognizing that all my good deeds are like filthy rags apart from Your grace. I confess my pride and self-reliance, and I repent of trying to earn what You freely offer through Jesus Christ. Forgive me, Lord, for every time I trusted in my works rather than Your mercy.
I humble myself before You. Make me poor in spirit, eager to forgive, and quick to repent. Teach me to live by faith and to walk in obedience—not to be seen by others, but to glorify You. Thank You for the righteousness of Christ, given freely to all who believe. Help me to trust in Him fully for salvation.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.. Good deeds are like filthy rags when done to earn God’s love. But when they come from a heart already saved by grace, they become acts of gratitude.
Let the stories of these 10 Bible characters be a reminder: salvation is never earned. It’s received by faith alone, and good works should follow as fruit, not as currency.